There’s a lot to appreciate when it comes to cars that are affordable, dependable, and low-maintenance. But we’re not referring to “cheap” in the outdated sense—those bare-bones vehicles that once came with crank windows, rubber flooring, and no air conditioning. Thankfully, those days are behind us.
Today’s definition of a good, cheap car is very different. These are vehicles that meet your daily needs, offer a satisfying driving experience, and require little more than routine oil changes and occasional maintenance.
The list features a range of options—from budget-friendly economy cars like the Toyota Corolla, Nissan Versa, and Mitsubishi Mirage, to surprising entries like a few Teslas, a Lexus, and even the performance-oriented Toyota Supra.
Here are the 5 car that come with the cheapest replacement parts:
Mazda3
The Mazda3 continues to stand out in the compact car segment, and with the addition of standard all-wheel drive this year, it becomes even more versatile, offering engaging performance in all weather conditions. Known for its responsive handling and lively engine, the Mazda3 is available in both sedan and hatchback body styles.
Over a 10-year period, the expected cost for maintenance and repairs totals $5,409, starting at $186 in the first year and increasing to $1,013 by year ten. The chance of needing a major repair during that span is 16.2%.
The Mazda3 is a compact car that stands out in its class for delivering a premium experience at an affordable price. Available in both sedan and hatchback configurations, it features sleek styling inspired by Mazda’s “Kodo” design language, giving it a clean and upscale appearance that rivals some entry-level luxury vehicles.
Inside, the Mazda3 continues to impress with a refined cabin that uses high-quality materials and a minimalist, driver-centric layout, making it feel more expensive than it actually is.
Performance-wise, the Mazda3 comes standard with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing around 191 horsepower, offering more power than many competitors in the segment.
Drivers looking for extra capability can opt for available all-wheel drive—rare in this class—or upgrade to a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine that delivers up to 250 horsepower for a significantly sportier experience.
Also Read: 12 Sports Sedans That Outlast SUVs With Top Endurance
Nissan Versa
The Nissan Versa is a budget-friendly subcompact sedan that appeals to cost-conscious drivers. It features a clean design and is more than capable of meeting everyday transportation needs while keeping ownership costs low.
Over a decade, the total expected maintenance and repair expenses amount to $5,331, beginning at $173 in the first year and rising to $1,011 by the tenth year.
With a 16.4% chance of requiring a major repair, the Versa remains a smart option, particularly for new drivers, thanks to its standard inclusion of automatic emergency braking.
Toyota Corolla
The Toyota Corolla continues to be a top choice for those seeking a reliable and efficient compact car. While it may not turn heads with flashy features, it consistently delivers where it counts.
Expected maintenance and repair costs total $4,087 over ten years, beginning at $148 in the first year and rising to $755 by the tenth. The risk of a major repair during that time is 11.9%, making the Corolla a solid pick for budget-conscious and practical drivers.
Toyota Prius
The Toyota Prius is among the most fuel-efficient hybrids available, with an EPA-estimated 58 mpg in the city and 53 mpg on the highway. Over a 10-year period, the expected maintenance and repair costs total $4,008, with annual costs starting at $155 in the first year and rising to $727 by year ten.
The likelihood of requiring a major repair during that time is relatively low at 11.2%. Beyond its impressive fuel economy, the Prius also stands out for its affordability when it comes to upkeep, making it a practical and cost-effective choice for drivers focused on long-term value.
The Toyota Prius is one of the most iconic hybrid vehicles on the market and has long been the go-to choice for drivers seeking exceptional fuel efficiency and reliable low-cost ownership.
Introduced in the late 1990s, the Prius helped pioneer the mainstream hybrid movement and continues to evolve with improved technology, better design, and stronger performance.
The latest generation Prius showcases a sleek, more aerodynamic design that looks far more modern and stylish than its earlier, more utilitarian models.
It’s powered by a hybrid system that combines a 2.0-liter gasoline engine with electric motors to deliver a combined output of around 194 horsepower (or 196 hp with all-wheel drive), offering a noticeable boost in acceleration compared to previous generations.
Despite the added power, it still delivers outstanding fuel economy—up to 58 mpg in the city and 53 mpg on the highway, depending on the trim.
Tesla Model 3
The Tesla Model 3, a more compact alternative to the Model S, holds the top spot for the lowest projected maintenance and repair expenses among all vehicles on the market.
Over a decade, the expected total cost is just $3,587, with annual maintenance starting at $169 in year one and increasing to $610 by year ten.
The probability of a major repair is only 8.6%. Most routine service visits for the Model 3 involve little more than a tire rotation, showcasing how minimal the upkeep requirements are for this electric sedan.
There’s no getting around it—premium vehicles are never truly cheap. While it’s easy to find used BMWs, Range Rovers, and Mercedes-Benz models selling for a fraction of their original sticker price, the real cost often shows up later in the form of expensive maintenance and repairs.
What looks like a bargain upfront can quickly become a money pit. Hence, On the contrary, Here are the 5 car that come with the most expensive replacement parts:
2023 Porsche Cayenne
The 2023 Porsche Cayenne maintains its status as “the Porsche of SUVs,” delivering high-performance driving dynamics through its range of powerful engines and sharp handling that rivals many traditional sports cars.
However, that level of performance doesn’t come cheap. Over a 10-year period, the expected maintenance and repair costs total $20,552, with yearly expenses starting at $721 in the first year and climbing to $3,827 by the tenth. The likelihood of experiencing a major repair during that time is 60.9%.
The 2023 Porsche Cayenne is a luxury midsize SUV that combines the performance Porsche is known for with the practicality of an SUV. It offers a variety of powertrain options, including a 3.0-liter V6 engine in the base model, producing 335 horsepower, and a 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6 in the Cayenne S, generating 434 horsepower.
For those seeking even more power, the Cayenne GTS comes with a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine that produces 453 horsepower, while the Cayenne Turbo ramps it up to 541 horsepower.
The Cayenne E-Hybrid offers a blend of performance and efficiency, with a 3.0-liter V6 engine paired with an electric motor, delivering a total of 455 horsepower. All models come equipped with standard all-wheel drive, ensuring enhanced stability and traction across various road conditions.
Pricing for the 2023 Porsche Cayenne starts at around $72,200, with higher trims such as the Cayenne S and GTS starting at $90,900 and $113,100, respectively.
While the Cayenne offers exceptional luxury and performance, maintenance costs can be significant, so it’s recommended to consult a Porsche dealership for detailed service schedules and pricing.
2023 Ram 2500–5500
The 2023 Ram 2500–5500 lineup represents the heavy-duty versions of Ram’s full-size pickup trucks, built to take on demanding towing and hauling tasks with ease. These trucks are engineered for strength and durability, but that capability comes at a significant long-term cost.
Maintenance and repair expenses range from $25,134 to $25,844 over a 10-year span, beginning at $778 in the first year and reaching $4,889 by year ten. With a major repair probability of 79.2%—the highest among all ranked models—these Rams are as expensive to maintain as they are powerful.
Also Read: 10 Most Cost-Effective Vehicles for Daily Commuters That Offer Comfort, Safety, and Value
2024 Land Rover Range Rover
The 2024 Land Rover Range Rover continues to uphold its legacy as the original off-road luxury SUV. Redesigned in 2022, it remains a standout in the segment thanks to its elegant styling, exceptional versatility, and plush interior.
It’s a vehicle built for both rugged terrain and refined comfort—fit for royalty in both form and function. However, the cost of ownership reflects its premium status, with a projected 10-year maintenance and repair cost of $18,228.
Annual expenses start at $735 in the first year and rise to $3,267 by year ten, with a 49.6% chance of a major repair during that time.
The 2024 Land Rover Range Rover epitomizes luxury, performance, and off-road prowess, making it a standout in the high-end SUV segment.
Available in various trims—including the P400 SE, P530 SE, P550e Autobiography, and the high-performance P615 SV—the Range Rover offers a range of powertrains to suit different preferences.
The P400 SE features a 3.0-liter inline-six engine producing 394 horsepower, while the P530 SE and Autobiography trims are equipped with a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 engine delivering 523 horsepower.
For those seeking a plug-in hybrid option, the P550e Autobiography combines a 3.0-liter inline-six engine with an electric motor to produce 542 horsepower. At the top of the lineup, the P615 SV boasts a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 engine generating 606 horsepower, offering exceptional performance capabilities.
In terms of dimensions, the 2024 Range Rover is 199 inches long and 81 inches wide, slightly surpassing competitors like the Mercedes-Benz GLS and BMW X7 in width.
The standard model offers ample space with 40.4 inches of rear legroom and up to 83.5 cubic feet of cargo space with both rows folded.
For those requiring additional seating, the long-wheelbase (LWB) models provide a third row, accommodating up to seven passengers. The LWB models also offer increased cargo capacity, with up to 93 cubic feet of space when both rear rows are folded.
2023 Porsche 911
The 2023 Porsche 911 is a true icon among sports cars and continues to be one of the most well-rounded performance vehicles on the market. Available in multiple variants, there’s a version to suit nearly every enthusiast’s taste.
However, unlike sampling from a variety pack of ice cream, the cost of experiencing all the 911 has to offer is steep—and only grows with time.
Over a decade, maintenance and repair costs total $18,231, with yearly expenses reaching $780 in the first year and $3,208 by year ten. The likelihood of a major repair during that period is 47.6%.
2024 BMW X5
The 2024 BMW X5 finds its place between the compact X3 and the larger three-row X7 in BMW’s SUV lineup. It strikes a balance between performance and comfort, delivering strong power from its turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine and a refined driving experience.
While the X5 is a well-rounded luxury SUV, it also comes with high maintenance demands. The estimated 10-year cost for maintenance and repairs is $18,389, with first-year expenses at $642 and increasing to $3,428 by the tenth year. There’s a 54.6% chance of a major repair during that span.
The 2024 BMW X5 is a luxury midsize SUV that offers a blend of performance, technology, and versatility. It is available in several trims, including the sDrive40i, xDrive40i, xDrive50e plug-in hybrid, and the high-performance M60i.
The base sDrive40i features a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine producing 375 horsepower, while the xDrive40i adds all-wheel drive to the same powertrain.
The xDrive50e plug-in hybrid combines a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine with an electric motor, delivering a combined 483 horsepower and offering an electric-only range of approximately 38 miles. The M60i trim is equipped with a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine, producing 523 horsepower, providing a more dynamic driving experience.
In terms of interior features, the 2024 X5 boasts a refined cabin with high-quality materials and advanced technology. Standard features include a 12.3-inch digital display, a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with iDrive 8.5, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a Harman Kardon surround sound system.
Optional features include ventilated seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a rear-seat entertainment system. The X5 also offers a suite of advanced safety features, such as lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control.
Pricing for the 2024 BMW X5 starts at $65,200 for the sDrive40i trim, with higher trims like the xDrive50e and M60i priced at $73,100 and $89,300, respectively. The M60i trim, being the most performance-oriented, offers a starting price of $89,300.
Overall, the 2024 BMW X5 continues to be a strong contender in the luxury SUV market, offering a combination of performance, luxury, and advanced technology to meet the needs of discerning drivers.