(May 18, 2012) LOS ANGELES — Three Volkswagen compact cars made Total Car Score's annual list of the Top Ten Cars for College Graduates. Total Car Score released the list in time for graduation season, as new college grads and their parents look to make a smart choice on an "adult" car. Safety, fuel efficiency, comfort and performance are all criteria used in finding the best car for the money, in what is usually the graduate's first new car purchase.

Volkswagen models on the list are the Golf, GTI and Jetta. The Ford Focus and Chevrolet Cruze also made the list.

"College grads are looking to make an investment in a car that is reliable and cost-conscious," said Karl Brauer, editor-in-chief of Total Car Score. "We compiled a list of the top-rated cars that offer the best quality while being very affordable."

Total Car Score provides an auto rating system that lets car buyers and enthusiasts alike quickly and easily compare models from all automotive segments. The "Total Car Score" assigned to a vehicle is an overall industry assessment that combines quantitative car reviews from all the major automotive authorities.

Brauer added "In today's extremely competitive new-car market automakers are providing higher-quality cars at lower prices. These models offer more technology and convenience features than ever before in the compact car segment."

Volkswagen has proven its mettle across several automotive segments in the last couple of years, and small cars are no exception. Additionally, Brauer noted the all-new 2012 Ford Focus in particular has shown a major improvement in the ratings and reviews it has received since introduction. Also notable is the presence of two Mazdas on the list, including the updated Mazda 3 with advanced "SKYACTIV" engine technology to improve fuel efficiency.

All of the vehicles in Total Car Score's list have a manufacturer's suggested retail price that starts under $25,000, with seven of the 10 starting under $17,000.

The 2012 Top Ten Cars for New College Graduates