In 2025, the American car market continues to surprise budget-conscious drivers. While the average new car price in the U.S. has soared past $47,000, several automakers are doubling down on affordable options that still deliver impressive features, efficiency, safety, and even style.
Cheap no longer means “bare-bones.” Today’s affordable cars offer advanced tech, solid performance, and long warranties giving buyers far more value than ever before.
If you’re shopping for a new car that balances price, practicality, and perks, these 15 vehicles stand out as the best cheap cars that deliver big value in 2025.
1. 2025 Kia Forte
Starting at around $20,000, the 2025 Kia Forte is one of the most budget-friendly sedans on the market. It comes standard with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a roomy interior, and excellent fuel efficiency with up to 41 mpg highway.
Kia’s 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty further boosts its value, making the Forte a smart pick for commuters who want reliability and low ownership costs.
The K4 is Kia’s sleek new compact sedan, stepping in to replace the outgoing Forte and sitting just below the larger K5 in the brand’s lineup. Featuring a fastback-style roofline inspired by the Stinger sports sedan and wide rear fenders, the K4 exudes a dynamic, sporty appearance.
Under the hood, the base model continues with the familiar 147-hp four-cylinder engine carried over from the previous Forte. For those seeking more power, the top-tier GT-Line Turbo trim comes equipped with an exclusive 190-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine.
Slightly larger than the Forte it replaces, the K4 offers increased interior space, particularly benefiting rear passengers. This improvement puts it in closer competition with other compact sedans such as the Honda Civic, Mazda 3, Toyota Corolla, and Volkswagen Jetta. A hatchback version of the K4 is also in the works, though Kia says it won’t arrive in the U.S. until later—potentially for the 2026 model year.
The K4 debuts as a completely new nameplate for Kia in North America, officially replacing the Forte compact car. An all-electric variant, expected to be called the EV4, may join the lineup in the future.
Most K4 models come equipped with a 147-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with front-wheel drive and a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). During testing, this setup provided smooth performance but somewhat sluggish acceleration.
Fortunately, Kia also offers a more powerful 190-hp turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, which is exclusive to the GT-Line Turbo trim and comes mated to a traditional eight-speed automatic transmission.
The GT-Line and GT-Line Turbo variants also benefit from a more advanced multi-link rear suspension, while other K4 models use a simpler torsion-beam design.
2. Toyota Corolla
The Corolla remains a go-to for American buyers who value long-term dependability. With a starting price near $22,000, it offers Toyota’s suite of active safety features (Toyota Safety Sense 3.0), a comfortable ride, and available hybrid variants delivering up to 50 mpg combined.
It’s not flashy, but it’s built to last decades a hallmark of true value. With its affordable price and long-standing reputation for dependability, it’s no surprise that the Toyota Corolla has remained one of the world’s best-selling cars for over five decades.
The 2018 Toyota Corolla continues that legacy with bold styling, a spacious interior, a wide array of advanced safety technologies, and seats that offer excellent comfort and support. While the Corolla excels in the fundamentals, a few shortcomings keep it from standing out against stronger competitors in its segment.
Inside, the Corolla’s cabin feels somewhat basic, offering little to make it seem more than a standard small car. Its modest engine and average handling result in a driving experience that lacks excitement.
Combined with a small trunk and limited smartphone connectivity, the Corolla faces tough competition in a segment filled with more engaging and feature-rich alternatives.
3. 2025 Hyundai Elantra
Hyundai has mastered the art of making cheap cars feel upscale. The Elantra’s sharp design, tech-focused cabin, and long warranty make it stand out in the compact sedan class.
Starting around $21,000, it includes an 8-inch touchscreen, driver-assist features, and stellar fuel economy. For a little more, the Elantra Hybrid pushes efficiency above 54 mpg combined.
4. 2025 Honda Civic
While slightly pricier than some rivals at about $24,000, the Civic justifies every dollar. It’s refined, fun to drive, and exceptionally durable.
Inside, the Civic offers premium materials, a roomy cabin, and one of the smoothest continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) in its class. Few cars blend reliability and driving enjoyment as well as the Civic does.
Powered by a 150-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a CVT, the front-wheel-drive nonhybrid Civic is the least powerful version in the lineup and doesn’t deliver particularly brisk acceleration. Still, its lively handling and well-tuned suspension make it feel agile enough for everyday city driving.
The Civic Hybrid, on the other hand, features an electrified powertrain that combines a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors to produce a total of 200 horsepower.
Like the gasoline-only model, this setup routes power exclusively to the front wheels through a CVT. During our test drive of the Civic Hybrid, it impressed us with its smoothness, strong performance, and overall driving enjoyment, coming close to matching the sporty feel of the Civic Si.
5. 2025 Nissan Versa
The Nissan Versa remains America’s cheapest new car in 2025, with prices starting just below $17,000. Despite its low price, it doesn’t skimp on essentials automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and smartphone integration are standard.
The Versa’s small footprint makes it ideal for urban driving, while its surprisingly spacious trunk adds practical value.
The 2025 Nissan Versa is a breeze to drive, particularly when navigating narrow city streets. It offers balanced handling, a smooth and stable ride on most surfaces, and impressive maneuverability aided by its compact size and tight turning radius. However, the steering lacks feedback, and the ride can feel slightly unsettled when traveling over rougher pavement.
All Versa models feature front-wheel drive and are powered by a 122-horsepower four-cylinder engine. A five-speed manual transmission comes standard, with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) available as an option.
The Versa performs best in urban and suburban settings, while it can reach highway speeds without issue, it does so without much enthusiasm.
6. 2025 Mazda3
Mazda has earned a reputation for giving affordable cars a premium edge, and the Mazda3 continues that trend.
Starting at $23,000, it delivers one of the best driving experiences in its class, thanks to sporty handling and a refined cabin that feels more European than Japanese. The attention to detail from steering feel to interior design makes it feel far above its price tag.
7. 2025 Subaru Impreza
For those needing all-wheel drive on a budget, the Subaru Impreza is a standout. Starting near $23,000, it’s one of the few cars in this price range that includes standard AWD, making it perfect for snowy states or rural areas.
With a comfortable ride and Subaru’s track record of durability, the Impreza is a high-value choice for adventurous drivers.
Before small crossovers began serving as high-riding hatchbacks, vehicles like the Subaru Impreza defined the compact hatchback segment. For 2025, the all-wheel-drive Impreza returns largely unchanged, following the full redesign it received for the 2024 model year. Key rivals include the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, and Mazda 3.
Subaru launched a redesigned Impreza in 2024, featuring updated architecture and improved technology. As part of the overhaul, the sedan body style and manual transmission were discontinued, leaving the hatchback as the sole option, paired exclusively with a CVT. For 2025, Subaru carries the Impreza forward without any changes.
The Impreza remains a likable car, but it has untapped potential. Neither available powertrain offers much excitement, and the narrow stock tires limit grip, dulling its performance.
Fitting wider tires could significantly enhance its driving dynamics, though for everyday use, the Impreza behaves politely and comfortably. Its fuel economy trails some competitors, largely due to the standard AWD system, but a relatively large fuel tank helps deliver a range of nearly 500 miles with either engine.
Up front, the seats are supportive and comfortable, but the rear seats are less accommodating. Interior materials and design are modest, yet overall build quality is solid. Subaru’s familiar 11.6-inch touchscreen dominates the center console; while visually appealing, it can respond a bit sluggishly at times.
Despite its shortcomings, the hatchback design remains a highlight, offering practicality and personality in equal measure. Subaru nails the basics of the compact-car formula with the current Impreza, but it fails to excel in any single category.
Competitors from Honda, Toyota, and others deliver better fuel efficiency, more engaging performance, and greater cargo capacity, often at a more attractive price point.
8. 2025 Hyundai Venue
Crossovers dominate the market, but the Hyundai Venue offers SUV practicality at a subcompact price. Starting under $21,000, it delivers high seating, modern tech, and a small footprint that’s easy to park.
The Venue’s low maintenance costs and efficient 1.6-liter engine make it one of the most budget-friendly SUVs you can buy new.
Every Hyundai Venue comes equipped with a 121-horsepower four-cylinder engine, providing adequate power for city driving but lacking the muscle needed for confident highway passing.
A continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) handles shifting duties, and all versions of the Venue are front-wheel drive, no all-wheel-drive option is available, which may disappoint some buyers.
During our time behind the wheel of a Venue in Miami, we found it to be nimble and easy to maneuver in city traffic, thanks to its compact dimensions and quick steering response.
However, on the highway, that same steering felt overly sensitive, requiring constant adjustments to stay centered in the lane. As a result, the small Hyundai feels more at home on short commutes and in urban environments than on long-distance highway drives.
9. 2025 Toyota Yaris Cross (U.S. Launch)
Finally returning to the U.S. market, the 2025 Toyota Yaris Cross gives buyers hybrid efficiency and crossover styling in one compact package.
Expected to start around $23,000, it should offer over 45 mpg combined and Toyota’s legendary reliability. It’s tailor-made for first-time buyers who want a small SUV feel without big SUV costs.
The Toyota Yaris Cross is offered exclusively as a hybrid, pairing a 1.5-liter three-cylinder petrol engine with an electric motor.
Entry-level models produce a combined 114 bhp, while the higher-spec GR Sport and Excel trims receive a slightly stronger 129 bhp version, bringing it closer in performance to the related Lexus LBX.
Neither powertrain makes the Yaris Cross the fastest among small SUVs. In testing, the 114 bhp version achieved a 0–60 mph time of 10.3 seconds, matching the Nissan Juke Hybrid and only marginally slower than the Renault Captur, which manages 9.7 seconds.
When driven gently, the Yaris Cross can run on electric power alone for short city trips. The electric motor provides strong low-speed response, making it feel more lively off the line than hybrid rivals such as the Juke or Captur. On battery power, it’s noticeably quieter than its petrol-only competitors and helps reduce overall fuel consumption.
As speed builds, the petrol engine engages to assist with acceleration to motorway pace. In the lower-powered model, performance starts to fade approaching 70 mph, where the Juke and Captur feel more confident. Opting for the 129 bhp version doesn’t turn the Yaris Cross into a performance SUV, but the added power is worthwhile if you often travel outside city limits.
All Yaris Cross models use a CVT automatic gearbox. The absence of traditional gear changes makes it smoother to drive than rivals like the Juke, Peugeot 2008, or Captur.
The trade-off is that the petrol engine becomes quite vocal under heavy acceleration, often holding revs high near the redline when climbing hills or overtaking. Some vibrations reach the cabin, though less so than in the Juke or Captur hybrids.
On highways, the Yaris Cross falls slightly behind its rivals. Road noise is noticeable regardless of tire size, and passengers may need to raise their voices for conversation. Both the Juke and Captur provide better cabin insulation, and those seeking a quieter motorway experience should consider the VW T-Roc.
Ride comfort is one of the Yaris Cross’s strengths. It’s softer than most small SUVs, including the Juke, T-Roc, and Puma, allowing it to glide smoothly over bumps. It’s nearly as comfortable as the Skoda Kamiq in this regard.
Despite its supple suspension, body control remains well managed. While there’s a bit more vertical movement over uneven surfaces compared to the Puma or T-Roc, it’s still better contained than in the more comfort-focused Captur.
In corners, the Yaris Cross handles with composure. Although some rivals, particularly the Ford Puma, offer sharper grip and sportier handling, the Yaris Cross delivers confident stability on twisty roads. Body lean is present but predictable, and the steering feels well-weighted, offering a natural response and a clear connection to the front wheels.
10. 2025 Chevrolet Trax
Chevrolet completely redesigned the Trax for 2025, and the result is one of the year’s best bargains. Starting just above $21,500, the Trax offers a sleek new look, a roomy interior, and tons of tech including wireless smartphone integration and advanced safety features.
Its value-to-price ratio is almost unmatched in the subcompact SUV segment. Once considered a bland, rounded subcompact SUV, the Chevrolet Trax was completely reinvented for 2024, emerging with sharper styling and modern features that make its modest starting price hard to believe.
Serving as the entry-level option in Chevrolet’s SUV lineup, the Trax maintains a clear family resemblance in both appearance and driving character.
While it leans more toward a tall hatchback than a traditional SUV, its versatility and affordability make it a practical choice for many drivers. Competitors for the 2025 Trax include the Nissan Kicks, Kia Soul, and Subaru Crosstrek. For 2025, Chevrolet introduced two new exterior colors, Marina Blue Metallic and Cypress Gray, and made the engine compatible with E85 fuel.
The Trax offers impressive value, starting just over $21,000 and topping out below $30,000 even when fully equipped. Despite its affordability, it drives smoothly and looks attractive, although excitement behind the wheel is limited.
The small three-cylinder engine delivers modest performance with occasional lag in throttle response, and fuel efficiency is only average. Some buyers may also be disappointed by the lack of an all-wheel-drive option. Nevertheless, the Trax shows refinement through a supple ride, a reasonably quiet cabin, and accurate steering.
The interior provides decent space, although rear-seat support could be better, and available large infotainment screens help offset the use of budget-friendly materials, which are still styled attractively. The base trim impresses with its low price but is light on features, whereas mid- and upper-level trims deliver a more complete and enjoyable experience.
All 2025 Trax models are powered by a turbocharged 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine producing 137 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. AWD is not available.
This setup allows the Trax to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 8.6 seconds, with fuel economy rated at 28 mpg city and 31–32 mpg highway depending on configuration.
When running on E85 fuel, efficiency drops to 21/24 mpg city/highway. While the Trax is smaller and more affordable than the Chevrolet Trailblazer, it lacks the option for AWD and a more powerful engine, making it worth comparing both before deciding which subcompact SUV better suits your needs.
Safety features come standard with Chevy Safety Assist, including forward automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, lane departure warning, and automatic high-beams. Higher trims can add the Driver Confidence Package, which includes blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control.
Passenger space is generous, though rear-seat leg support could be improved, and cargo space is competitive but not class-leading. The Trax offers an 8.0-inch touchscreen on base trims and an 11.0-inch unit on higher trims, both featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Smaller-screen models use analog gauges, while higher trims gain an 8.0-inch digital instrument cluster. Two USB ports are standard in the front row, with two additional ports for rear passengers on higher trims, and a wireless charging pad is optional. Audio systems vary between four and six speakers depending on trim.
Regarding trims, the base LS is best avoided despite its low $21,495 price, as it is light on standard features. The LT trim, at $23,595, strikes the best balance, adding 17-inch alloy wheels, upgraded LED headlights, silver exterior accents, keyless push-button start, larger digital displays, and a six-speaker sound system.
11. 2025 Honda HR-V
Priced from about $25,000, the HR-V might be Honda’s best all-around value SUV. It features a refined ride, quality materials, and a versatile cargo area.
Honda’s build quality ensures long-term reliability, while standard safety features like adaptive cruise control make it feel like a premium small SUV at a reasonable price.
12. 2025 Mitsubishi Mirage
Though often overlooked, the Mitsubishi Mirage continues to be one of the most affordable and efficient cars in America.
Starting around $17,500, it gets up to 43 mpg highway, making it a wallet-saver for commuters. The Mirage’s low insurance costs and excellent warranty coverage enhance its long-term value.
13. 2025 Kia Soul
The Kia Soul blends funky styling with practicality and affordability. Priced from $21,500, it offers a spacious cabin, intuitive tech, and excellent safety ratings.
Its boxy design means tons of interior space for passengers and cargo, making it one of the most versatile budget cars available.
14. 2025 Volkswagen Jetta
The Jetta offers European refinement at a reasonable price. Starting near $22,000, it features a smooth turbocharged engine and a comfortable, well-built interior.
Volkswagen’s attention to ride quality and noise isolation gives the Jetta an upscale feel that many rivals can’t match at this price point.
15. 2025 Nissan Sentra
Rounding out the list, the Nissan Sentra continues to offer excellent value for around $21,000. It has a handsome design, a quiet cabin, and plenty of standard tech, including adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring.
Its fuel efficiency, reliability, and generous features make it a dependable daily driver.
In 2025, cheap cars no longer mean compromising comfort, tech, or reliability. From compact sedans like the Corolla and Civic to small SUVs like the Trax and Venue, buyers have plenty of affordable options that deliver exceptional value.
Whether you prioritize fuel economy, safety, or long-term dependability, these 15 models prove that budget-friendly cars can still feel premium and that big value can come in small (and affordable) packages.
