10 Cheapest New Cars You Can Buy Right Now
The sticker shock hits hard. New car prices have skyrocketed so much that finding anything remotely affordable feels like spotting a unicorn. But here's the thing: you can still grab something brand-new for under $30,000.
Cars.com rounded up 10 models that prove you don't need deep pockets to drive off the lot. You'll be eyeing entry-level versions with fewer bells and whistles, but you get everything you actually need.
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Kia K4 LX
Starting price: $23,535
Chris Pyle, an auto expert on JustAnswer, puts the Kia K4 LX on his list of some of the cheapest new cars you can buy right now.
“You will have to select the models with the lowest trim level, features and appearance to get the price this low,” he said. “The cars will still have all that is needed to function well, but they will be missing some of those extras that some cannot live without."
Nissan Sentra S
Starting price: $23,845
If you want a new Nissan for a low price, check out the Sentra S. This compact sedan delivers controlled handling and a polished interior design. Sharp steering rounds out the package, making it feel more refined than the price tag suggests.
Hyundai Elantra SE
Starting price: $24,120
The Elantra's gas only option is fuel efficient, with 35 mpg EPA combined. It comes loaded with wireless connectivity, pedestrian detection and blind-spot warnings as standard. Not bad for the money.
Toyota Corolla LE
Starting price: $24,420
Toyota may be a loved brand but it’s not a favorite on the list of cheapest cars. In fact, the Corolla LE is the only Toyota vehicle to make the list.
It's packed with standard features but won't exactly light your driving soul on fire. Still, it's Toyota — reliability's in the DNA.
Honda Civic LX
Starting price: $24,695
The Honda Civic LX is another quality choice among the cheapest new cars you can buy right now. It’s a good-looking vehicle with overall nice dependability.
Luke Oswald, an automotive specialist at Wheels Away, said, “Honda and Toyota are known for making reliable cars, which is a big plus when you’re buying on a budget, so I'd always recommend these."
Volkswagen Jetta 1.5T S
Starting price: $25,270
VW's compact sedan punches above its weight. Reviewers consistently praise its balanced ride and handling, which is genuinely surprising for something this affordable.
Mazda3 2.5 S
Starting price: $25,965
Some fans feel like Mazda doesn’t get enough love. For those drivers, the Mazda3 2.5 S delivers quality with a starting price in the $25,000 range.
This car may be especially of interest if you’re looking for more athletic performance on the road. Online reviews suggested it's among the sportier options for affordable compact cars.
Subaru Impreza Sport
Starting price: $27,790
Safety-focused shoppers take note: Subaru's reputation holds up here. The Impreza Sport is fairly spacious and has a 29 estimated combined fuel economy.
Kia K5 LXS
Starting price: $28,735
Kia's K5 LXS is a midsize sedan that's genuinely stylish and attractive. What's better is the warranty the brand offers.
As Oswald put it, “A few of the brands on this list offer some of the better warranties in the U.S., especially Kia, so that’s definitely something I’d take into account when looking into a new car."
Hyundai Sonata SE
Starting price: $28,745
Hyundai closes out the list with a spacious sedan that comes standard with solid safety tech. It's the roomiest option here and proves budget-friendly doesn't mean cutting corners on protection.
Editor's note: Starting prices sourced via Cars.com.
This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal or tax advice.
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