Following the initial uncertainty surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to a temporary reduction in vehicle miles traveled, the virus has restored interest in car ownership in America, particularly among young people. As the pandemic wore on, consumer attitudes, especially those of Generations Y and Z, about where they live, how they spend their time, and how they move about began to shift rather dramatically. Interest in ride-sharing and public transit fell markedly. People started to leave cities, not just for leisure, but for good. In one pandemic year, the auto industry's generations had written off as committed Uber, and public transportation riders were suddenly buying more vehicles than any other demographic.

According to J.D. Power, Millennials bought more new cars than anyone in 2020, and 45 percent of all first-time buyers are Millennials. A YPulse survey found that three in five Millennials own a car, and half of those who don't own a vehicle plan to buy one next year. So, an industry that accounts for 3 percent of the U.S. economy and employs more than 2 million Americans in the production and sale of new vehicles should expect some things to change. Because these young people don't look for the same things in cars that their parents do, and they aren't buying them the same way. Other assumptions you might make about them could be wrong too.

So, what matters to these young car buyers? First and foremost, it's not flash. The flashy features that get Boomers and Gen Xers excited are not the same for Gens Y and Z. These young buyers, according to the top 5 by YPulse, are more interested in comfort, reliability, and fuel efficiency, followed by safety features and a smooth ride. While looks matter slightly more for Millennials, appearance doesn't even crack the top 10 for Zs. 73 percent of the sample said they want their car to be more understated than flashy. Pre-Owned and Certified Pre-Owned also lead new as young people's primary choice for their next vehicle purchase.

With graduation a few short months away and supply chain delays still an issue, now is the time for college graduates to think about buying a new car, a reliable, safe, and not too expensive one. You can see those student loans on the horizon, and you don't need a car that adds to your budgetary burden.

If you are considering a Subaru as your first post-graduate purchase, you are in luck. The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek has been named to Autotrader's list of 10 Best Cars for Recent College Graduates. The list recognizes vehicles with a practical range of value, fuel economy, safety, and reliability. Award recipients encompass new and used cars and SUVs in the under $25,000 price range that achieve a combined fuel economy rating of at least 30 mpg. The full list of vehicles that made the list include:

• 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer
• 2018 Ford Focus
• 2017- 2018 Honda Civic
• 2018 – 2020 Hyundai Kona
• 2021 Kia Soul
• 2021 Mazda3
• 2021 Nissan Sentra
• 2021 Subaru Crosstrek
• 2016 – 2018 Toyota Prius
• 2016 – 2018 Volkswagen Jetta

Autotrader awarded the Subaru Crosstrek SUV with distinction for its efficiency, practicality, and off-road-friendly features. Not only is the Crosstrek safe, reliable, and economical, it is also fun to drive and can carry friends and gear on off-road adventures. With a starting price of $22,245, the vehicle comes standard with Subaru's legendary Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and a 5-star vehicle safety rating from National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Aposhian Garage is one of the only garages the Salt Lake City and the surrounding areas with specially-trained Subaru mechanics. Subaru Crosstrek, Forester, Impreza, Ascent, Legacy, or Outback—we service them all—including brake repairs, transmission, oil changes, and engine repairs. Our service is backed with a 12-month or 12,000-mile warranty. Visit or call us today at 801-467-3344.