Not everyone needs bells and whistles. For many buyers — students, commuters, budget-conscious households — a car’s primary job is dependable transportation at the lowest possible cost. New cars are more expensive than ever, but there are still basic models that deliver modern safety, excellent fuel economy, and surprisingly strong value without going deep into your savings. These ten are among the cheapest new cars available today.
Nissan Versa
The Nissan Versa consistently ranks as one of the most affordable new cars on sale. It offers a simple, no-frills package with a comfortable interior, good fuel economy, and a reliable powertrain. While basic trims lack advanced tech, it’s a practical choice for first-time buyers and daily commuters who want new-car peace of mind without a steep price tag.
Mitsubishi Mirage
The Mitsubishi Mirage is tiny, light, and built to be inexpensive. Its small three-cylinder engine delivers excellent fuel economy, and its compact size makes city driving and parking a breeze. Mirage’s basic nature means simplicity over performance, but its price point is hard to beat for buyers focused on upfront affordability.
Kia Rio
The Kia Rio brings a bit more style and features while still staying near the bottom of the price list. It offers a roomy interior for its size and a smooth ride, making it a solid choice for buyers who want basic reliability with a little extra polish. Its value proposition is strong in the entry-level segment.
Chevrolet Spark
One of the smallest new cars available, the Chevrolet Spark is built for urban living. It’s inexpensive to buy and cheap to run, with a peppy feel around town. Cargo space is modest and highway power is limited, but for budget buyers needing simple mobility, it fits perfectly.
Hyundai Accent
The Hyundai Accent combines basic pricing with a reputation for long-term durability. It’s straightforward, easy to drive, and comes with a respectable warranty that adds peace of mind. Its features list won’t impress, but as a low-cost daily driver, it checks all the boxes.
Toyota Yaris
The Toyota Yaris leans into Toyota’s reputation for reliability and efficient performance. While not packed with tech, it delivers solid fuel economy and a compact footprint that’s ideal for city drivers. The basic trims keep the price accessible without compromising core functionality.
Honda Fit (Where Available)
Although production ended in some markets, the Honda Fit continues to appear in others as a basic, practical choice. Its standout cargo flexibility earns it points against more expensive rivals. With straightforward mechanics and good fuel economy, Fit remains a sensible budget pick where it’s sold new.
Ford Maverick (Base)
While bigger than most on this list, the Ford Maverick at its base trim represents one of the more affordable new trucks available. Its unibody design, standard hybrid powertrain, and modest pricing make it exceptionally easy to live with. It gives budget buyers a taste of pickup life without a heavy price premium.
Chevrolet Trailblazer (Base)
The Chevrolet Trailblazer brings SUV style and higher seating at a price that still competes with smaller hatchbacks. It’s simple, practical, and efficient, trading premium materials for affordability. For budget buyers who want crossover proportions on a shoestring, it’s worth a look.
Kia Soul
The Kia Soul is quirky, spacious, and surprisingly affordable in its base trims. While not the cheapest outright, its value comes from versatility and interior space that beat many pricier rivals. It’s a great all-around budget choice without feeling stripped down.
25 Facts About Car Loans That Most Drivers Don’t Realize
Car loans are one of the most common ways people fund car purchases. Like any other kind of loan, car loans can have certain features that can be regarded as an advantage or a disadvantage to the borrower. Understanding all essential facts about car loans and how they work to ensure that you get the best deal for your financial situation is essential. Here are 25 shocking facts about car loans that most drivers don’t realize:
25 Facts About Car Loans That Most Drivers Don’t Realize
