Kia Soul tops lists for best back-to-school cars

We're barely into August and already radio is blaring ads for back to school. Heck, who wants to think about wading back into the classroom when the surf's up, the sun is shining and the mosquitoes are still nipping?

Well, there's no holding back some, like CarMax, which just published its list of recommended cars for returning students. Kelley Blue Book also has a list that's heavy on really small cars.

What both lists have in common is the Kia Soul, a fun small car if there ever was one.

CarMax also recommends, in no particular order:

• Chevrolet Malibu.
• Chrysler 200.
• Ford Fusion.
• Honda Accord.
• Honda Civic.
• Honda Element.
• Hyundai Sonata.
• Kia Forte.
• Toyota Camry.

Our recommendation: If they need a car, give them a reliable hand-me-down. Boring midsize sedans are a safe, dependable choice.