With rising gas prices and inflation, many car buyers are looking for budget-friendly options that won’t break the bank at the pump.
In response to this demand, automakers have developed more fuel-efficient vehicles that are both affordable and practical for everyday use.
For those on a tight budget, finding a car that offers good gas mileage without sacrificing quality is crucial.
Thankfully, there are many cars available under $28,000 that combine affordability and fuel efficiency. Whether you’re looking for a sedan, hatchback, or crossover, there’s a wide selection to choose from.
These vehicles are designed to help drivers save money while still providing the features and practicality needed for day-to-day commuting. With their excellent fuel economy ratings, they help you stretch your dollars further, especially in times when fuel costs are high.
we’ll take a look at some of the best options available for 2024 and 2025. We’ve selected vehicles that offer a great balance of value, efficiency, and practicality.
Whether you’re new to car buying or simply looking for a more economical option, these cars will ensure you get the most for your money.
10) 2024 Mazda3, A Fun Stylish Compact Car
The 2024 Mazda3 is a well-rounded, compact car that offers a great driving experience. With its peppy acceleration, athletic handling, and impressive cabin, it’s an enjoyable vehicle. However, its rear seats are tight, which may make it less ideal for families who need more space.
The Mazda3 offers a standard 191-horsepower four-cylinder engine that provides enough power for both city and highway driving. For those seeking more performance, the optional turbo-four engine delivers even more excitement. Additionally, all-wheel drive is available for better traction and handling.
Fuel economy for the 2024 Mazda3 is decent, with the sedan version achieving 28 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway.
The hatchback models offer slightly lower ratings of 26 mpg city and 36 mpg highway. However, the turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive versions have lower fuel efficiency.
Inside, the 2024 Mazda3 features a high-quality, visually appealing cabin with premium materials. The front seats are spacious and comfortable, but the rear seats are cramped and better suited for children.
The car also offers decent cargo space, with the sedan having 13.2 cubic feet of trunk space and the hatchback offering more at 20.1 cubic feet.
The Mazda3 is priced reasonably, with the base model starting at $24,170. Higher trims, such as the Carbon Edition and Turbo Premium Plus, offer additional luxury features but come at a higher cost.
Despite the price increases in higher trims, the Mazda3 remains a top contender in the compact car class due to its fun driving experience and solid build quality.
While the 2024 Mazda3 shines with its sporty performance and attractive design, it might not be the best option for those who prioritize rear seat space or cargo room. If you’re looking for a compact car with a sophisticated feel and fun handling, the Mazda3 is a great choice.
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9)The 2024 Volkswagen Taos, A Spacious, Fuel-Efficient Subcompact SUV
The 2024 Volkswagen Taos stands out in the subcompact SUV category with its spacious interior. It offers plenty of room for both passengers and cargo, making it a great option for those who need practicality in a smaller vehicle. The design is modern, though some materials in the cabin may feel less premium compared to competitors.
One of the highlights of the Taos is its fuel efficiency. The front-wheel-drive models achieve an impressive 28 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway, making it one of the most fuel-efficient subcompact crossovers available. This makes it a great choice for drivers who want to save on fuel costs.
Power in the Taos is sufficient for everyday driving. It handles well and offers good maneuverability, especially in tight spaces.
The small size of the SUV also contributes to its ease of driving in urban environments. However, despite its performance, the Taos is priced higher than many other vehicles in its class.
While the 2024 Volkswagen Taos excels in interior space and fuel efficiency, its higher price tag could be a drawback for budget-conscious shoppers. The driving experience is satisfying, and its size makes it a practical choice for city driving. However, competitors may offer similar features at a lower price.
8) 2025 Hyundai Sonata, A Practical Midsize Sedan
The 2025 Hyundai Sonata offers a smooth ride and great practicality for commuters. While it may not provide thrilling handling, it stands out for its comfort, user-friendly features, and excellent value. This midsize sedan also benefits from a strong warranty, making it a reliable choice for many buyers.
The Sonata’s performance is suitable for daily driving. The standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine produces 191 horsepower, which is enough for most driving situations.
For those seeking more power, the N Line trim offers a turbocharged 290-horsepower engine. However, the handling might feel less engaging compared to other sedans in the class.
Fuel economy is a strong point for the Sonata. The base engine with front-wheel drive achieves 28 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway, making it efficient for long drives.
The all-wheel-drive version offers slightly lower fuel economy, while the turbocharged engine returns 23 mpg city and 32 mpg highway.
Inside, the Sonata provides a spacious cabin with seating for five people. It offers comfortable front seats and enough room for adults in the back.
The 16 cubic feet of trunk space is average for the class, and the hands-free smart trunk lid adds convenience. However, the cabin materials may not feel as luxurious as some competitors.
The 2025 Sonata offers excellent value, with a long list of standard features, including a 12.3-inch touchscreen and wireless smartphone integration. It also comes with important driver-assistance features such as lane-keep assist and blind-spot monitoring. The vehicle has a predicted reliability score of 81 out of 100, which is solid for its class.
Safety is a key strength of the Sonata. It has a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA and comes with standard features like adaptive cruise control. It also offers ample space for child safety seats, making it a family-friendly option.
In terms of pricing, the 2025 Hyundai Sonata starts at $26,650, with higher trims reaching up to $35,250 for the N Line model. The base SE trim provides great value, with a good set of features at an affordable price.
The 2025 Hyundai Sonata is an excellent choice for those looking for a reliable, comfortable, and fuel-efficient midsize sedan. Its practicality and warranty make it a great competitor in its class.
7) 2024 Honda Accord Review: A Well-Rounded Sedan
The 2024 Honda Accord is an impressive midsize sedan offering a combination of great performance, fuel efficiency, and comfort. Its 1.5-liter turbocharged engine provides 192 horsepower, making it quick off the line while still delivering excellent gas mileage—29 mpg city and 37 mpg highway. It’s an ideal choice for both families and commuters looking for reliability and practicality.
Inside, the Honda Accord shines with its upscale design, even without leather upholstery. It seats five passengers comfortably, offering plenty of legroom and a large trunk with 16.7 cubic feet of space. The interior is well-built with soft-touch materials, and the cabin feels refined for its price range.
While the Accord performs well, there are a few downsides. The starting price of $27,895 is higher than some competitors, and it lacks some upgrades available in rival sedans. Features like leather upholstery and advanced safety systems are available only in higher trims or the hybrid model. Additionally, the car only offers front-wheel drive, while other sedans in this category offer all-wheel drive.
Despite these drawbacks, the Accord is a great value, with high scores in performance, fuel economy, and interior quality. It is also well-equipped with modern tech, including an easy-to-use infotainment system. Safety features such as forward collision warning and adaptive cruise control are standard, providing peace of mind for families.
For those considering the 2024 Honda Accord, the EX trim ($29,910) is a good choice as it offers added comfort and tech features over the base LX trim. If you want even better fuel efficiency, the Accord Hybrid is available, but at a higher price point.
The 2024 Honda Accord is an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable, comfortable, and fuel-efficient midsize sedan. It balances style, performance, and practicality well, making it one of the top picks in its class.
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6) 2024 Nissan Altima, A Solid Midsize Sedan with Room for Improvement
The 2024 Nissan Altima is a comfortable and spacious midsize sedan ideal for families or anyone looking for a roomy car. It offers impressive fuel economy and comes with a good selection of standard safety features. However, sluggish acceleration and a less-than-smooth ride detract from its appeal.
The Altima boasts a roomy interior, with supportive front seats that provide excellent comfort, especially on long drives. Despite being well-cushioned, the rear seats are less supportive but still comfortable enough for two adults. The trunk offers 15.4 cubic feet of space, which is decent for the class. However, some interior materials feel cheap compared to rivals.
Fuel efficiency is one of the Altima’s strengths. It delivers excellent gas mileage, with estimates of 27 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway for the front-wheel-drive version. All-wheel-drive models get slightly lower mileage at 26/36 mpg. The turbocharged version offers a little less fuel efficiency, but still provides a reasonable range.
Under the hood, the Altima has two engine options: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 188 horsepower and a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine offering 236 horsepower.
While the base engine feels underpowered, the turbocharged engine is much more responsive and provides a better driving experience. The continuous variable transmission (CVT) can be noisy, especially with the base engine, which may be frustrating during acceleration.
The driving experience is where the Altima falls short compared to its rivals. While it feels stable on the road, it lacks the agility and responsiveness seen in cars like the Honda Accord or Subaru Legacy. The ride quality can also be a bit bumpy, especially when equipped with larger wheels on the sportier trims. While its brakes feel solid, the Altima’s handling doesn’t inspire much confidence.
In terms of value, the Altima is competitively priced in the midsize car segment. The base model starts at $25,730, while the top trim, the Altima SL, goes up to $32,430. The Altima offers a good range of standard features such as blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, and rear parking sensors. It’s also available with all-wheel drive, a feature not commonly found in this class.
Safety-wise, the Altima performs well with a strong list of driver-assistance features and good ratings from safety organizations. It also comes with a reliable child safety seat installation system.
The 2024 Nissan Altima is a solid choice for those who prioritize comfort, fuel efficiency, and safety. However, it may not appeal to those seeking exciting driving dynamics or superior interior quality.
5) 2024 Nissan Kicks Review, Affordable and Efficient City SUV
The 2024 Nissan Kicks is a budget-friendly subcompact SUV, great for city driving and commuting. While it’s not the most powerful or luxurious option, it offers impressive fuel economy and reliability at an affordable price, making it an excellent choice for those on a tight budget.
The Kicks comes with a 122-horsepower four-cylinder engine and a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). While it’s sufficient for city driving, it struggles to accelerate on highways and lacks passing power. The handling is nimble, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces, but the ride can feel underwhelming on longer trips.
One of the Kicks’ standout features is its fuel efficiency. It offers an EPA-estimated 31 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway. This makes it a solid choice for those looking to save on gas, especially when compared to many other SUVs in the same category.
Inside, the Kicks offers decent space but falls short on quality. The cabin has a lot of hard plastics, and while the front seats are roomy, they lack support. The rear seats are similarly spacious but uncomfortable, especially for longer drives. The cargo space is generous for a subcompact SUV, offering 25.3 cubic feet with the rear seats up and 53.1 cubic feet with them down.
With a starting price of around $21,000, the Kicks offers excellent value for money, providing a range of standard features like Apple CarPlay, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. It also scores well on safety, with high ratings from organizations like the IIHS and NHTSA, along with a range of active safety features.
The base 2024 Kicks S starts at $21,050, with the mid-range SV trim costing $22,910, and the top SR trim priced at $23,610. The base model is well-equipped with features like a 7-inch touchscreen, blind-spot monitoring, and Apple CarPlay. If you’re on a budget, the base model offers excellent value without needing to upgrade.
The 2024 Nissan Kicks is a great option if you’re looking for an affordable, fuel-efficient SUV for city driving. However, if you’re looking for a more powerful engine or a more comfortable interior, you might want to explore alternatives like the Kia Soul or Mazda CX-30, which offer better performance and interior quality for a slightly higher price.
4) 2024 Volkswagen Jetta Review, A Practical and Fuel-Efficient Sedan
The 2024 Volkswagen Jetta offers a controlled and comfortable ride, but it’s more about ease of use than spirited driving. The GLI model, however, boosts performance with an independent suspension and a limited-slip differential, making it more dynamic. The base Jetta’s 1.5-liter turbocharged engine delivers good initial power but lacks long-lasting excitement, while the GLI’s 2.0-liter turbo-four engine offers more vigor.
The Jetta offers three different transmissions: a six-speed manual, an eight-speed automatic, and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic for the GLI model. The six-speed manual adds some sportiness, and the GLI is also available with a manual for enthusiasts who prefer full control over shifting. The ride is stable, but handling isn’t as sharp as rivals like the Honda Civic Si.
With the automatic transmission, the 2024 Jetta achieves 31 mpg in the city and 41 mpg on the highway, which are impressive figures for a compact car. Even manual versions still manage good mileage, offering 29 mpg city and 42 mpg highway. However, the GLI version is less fuel-efficient, with ratings of 24 mpg city and 35 mpg highway for the manual transmission.
The Jetta offers a spacious interior with comfortable seats and plenty of leg and headroom. However, the materials used feel cheap compared to competitors like the Mazda3 and Honda Civic. The cabin’s layout is functional, but lacks the premium feel seen in other compact sedans. With 14.1 cubic feet of cargo space, it offers decent room for the class, though the rear seats don’t fold fully flat.
The 2024 Jetta comes equipped with safety features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keep assist. It received a second-highest rating for its LATCH system from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. While these features provide solid safety, the Jetta’s safety score is lower compared to some rivals in the segment.
With a predicted reliability score of 81 out of 100, the 2024 Volkswagen Jetta offers decent reliability. This rating places it in the “Great” category according to J.D. Power, indicating that it should hold up well over time, though not as exceptional as some other vehicles.
Starting at $21,435, the 2024 Jetta offers great value for those seeking a compact sedan. The base S trim comes with a 6.5-inch touchscreen, an 8-inch digital gauge cluster, and a range of safety features. The GLI 40th Anniversary Edition starts at $28,085 and offers sporty upgrades such as a 228-horsepower engine and improved suspension.
The 2024 Volkswagen Jetta is a solid choice for those looking for a practical, fuel-efficient compact sedan. It’s not the most exciting car in its class, but the GLI offers more sporty driving for enthusiasts. Though rivals like the Mazda3 and Honda Civic may provide more engaging experiences, the Jetta remains an excellent value for the price.
3) 2025 Nissan Sentra Review, A Fuel-Efficient Option for Budget-Conscious Buyers
The 2025 Nissan Sentra features a 149-horsepower four-cylinder engine paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). While it’s not the most exciting car to drive, its soft suspension offers a comfortable ride. However, its handling is not very responsive compared to rivals like the Honda Civic, and the brakes take longer to stop the car.
The Sentra delivers competitive fuel economy for its class. The S and SV trims get an EPA-estimated 34 mpg combined, with 30 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway. The top SR trim is slightly less efficient, achieving 33 mpg combined (30/38 mpg city/highway). Though some competitors perform slightly better, the Sentra holds its ground.
The Sentra’s cabin is functional and attractive. It features a simple design, with soft-touch materials, a well-placed touchscreen, and ample legroom. The front seats are comfortable, but rear-seat space is limited, especially in terms of leg and headroom. The 14.3 cubic feet of trunk space is average for the class, offering decent cargo capacity.
With its affordable starting price and good fuel economy, the 2025 Nissan Sentra provides excellent value. The car’s total cost of ownership is favorable, making it a great choice for budget-conscious buyers looking for a compact sedan that doesn’t compromise on features or practicality.
The Sentra comes with several standard driver-assistance features, such as forward collision warning, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. While the car has not been crash-tested yet, it’s equipped to handle everyday safety needs. The LATCH system is highly rated for ease of use and versatility in installing child safety seats.
The Sentra has not yet received a predicted reliability score for 2025, but it is expected to be reliable based on its past performance., it is a well-built and solid car, with no major concerns regarding long-term durability.
The 2025 Sentra starts at $21,590 for the base S trim. The SV trim, priced at $22,290, offers additional features such as upgraded upholstery and a larger touchscreen. The top-tier SR trim starts at $24,590 and includes more premium features like LED headlights and heated front seats.
The SV trim offers the best value for most buyers. For just a little more than the base S trim, you get added features like a better sound system, upgraded upholstery, and adaptive cruise control. The SR trim offers even more luxury features, but the SV remains the best option for most.
The 2025 Nissan Sentra is a solid, fuel-efficient car that offers excellent value, especially for those on a budget. While it doesn’t offer thrilling performance or the most spacious interior, it’s an ideal choice for those looking for a practical commuter car. Competitors like the Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla might provide better features or performance, but the Sentra stands out for its affordability and efficiency.
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2) 2025 Toyota Corolla, A Solid Yet Uninspiring Compact Car
The 2025 Toyota Corolla comes with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 169 horsepower. While the engine is sufficient for daily driving, it’s not particularly fast, with a 0-60 mph time of around 9 seconds. The engine can be noisy under hard acceleration, and passing on the highway can feel sluggish. It is paired with a CVT and front-wheel drive.
The Corolla is a fuel-efficient option for compact car buyers. It offers an estimated 30-32 mpg in the city and 38-41 mpg on the highway. These are great numbers for the segment. If you’re looking for even better fuel efficiency, the Corolla Hybrid provides even better gas mileage and is available separately for review.
The Corolla has a two-row seating arrangement, offering space for five people. The front seats are spacious and comfortable, though the rear seats are tighter, especially in the hatchback version. Cargo space is average, with 13.1 cubic feet in the sedan and 17.8 cubic feet in the hatchback. Folding the rear seats boosts cargo capacity to 23 cubic feet in the hatchback.
The 2025 Corolla offers solid value for the compact car class. Its standard features, such as wireless smartphone integration, adaptive cruise control, and Toyota’s comprehensive Safety Sense suite, add to its appeal. It also has a competitive total cost of ownership, making it a practical choice for budget-conscious buyers.
The Corolla earned a five-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration for the hatchback model. It comes equipped with essential safety features, including pedestrian and cyclist detection, traffic-sign recognition, and the LATCH system for easy child seat installation. It provides peace of mind for families and commuters alike.
With a reliability score of 79 out of 100, the Corolla is known for being dependable. While this score is average, Toyota’s long-standing reputation for reliability helps the Corolla stand out in its class. It also has a relatively low cost of ownership compared to its competitors, though some rivals like the Kia Forte and Hyundai Elantra offer better warranty coverage.
The 2025 Corolla offers a variety of trims, with prices starting at around $22,000 for the base LE trim. The SE hatchback, which starts at $23,630, offers better features like sport seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The top-tier XSE trim is priced at $26,930 and includes features like synthetic leather upholstery and a moonroof.
The SE hatchback trim is recommended for those seeking better value. It offers a combination of good fuel economy, extra cargo space, and premium features for a reasonable price. It’s an ideal choice for those looking for a more practical Corolla with better performance and utility.
The 2025 Toyota Corolla is a solid, practical car that offers great fuel economy and comes with plenty of standard features. However, its performance is lackluster, and the interior design is uninspiring compared to rivals. If you’re after an affordable and reliable car for daily commuting, the Corolla is a good option, but other cars in the segment may offer more excitement and features.
1) 2025 Nissan Versa, A Budget-Friendly Subcompact Car
The 2025 Nissan Versa is easy to drive, especially in urban areas, thanks to its small size and tight turning radius. It offers a stable ride and good maneuverability but can feel wobbly over rough roads. Equipped with a 122-horsepower four-cylinder engine, it is suitable for city driving. The car isn’t particularly fast, but it gets up to highway speeds without much struggle.
The 2025 Versa with the CVT achieves impressive fuel economy, reaching up to 32 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway. This makes it a standout in the subcompact car segment for efficiency. The base model with a manual transmission delivers slightly lower fuel economy, offering 27/35 mpg city/highway.
Inside, the 2025 Versa offers a well-built cabin with soft-touch surfaces and a sturdy feel. While the rear seats are firm and tight for adults, it comfortably accommodates front passengers. The car provides excellent trunk space for the class, with 14.7 cubic feet in the standard model and 15 cubic feet in higher trims. Folding rear seats expand cargo space for larger items.
The 2025 Nissan Versa is a great value for subcompact car buyers. It has a low base price and a solid list of features, including a 7-inch touch screen, USB ports, and driver-assistance technology. Its excellent fuel economy and affordability make it an attractive option for those on a budget, offering a high return on investment.
While the 2025 Versa hasn’t been crash-tested, it comes equipped with essential safety features, including forward and reverse collision warnings, automatic emergency braking, and LATCH connectors for child safety seats. These features add an extra layer of security for drivers and families, making the Versa a reliable choice for safety-conscious buyers.
The 2025 Nissan Versa is predicted to be highly reliable, with a J.D. Power reliability score of 87 out of 100. This score indicates that the Versa is a dependable vehicle that should perform well over time with minimal issues. Its reliability, combined with its affordable price, makes it an excellent choice for long-term ownership.
The 2025 Nissan Versa starts at $17,190 for the base S trim, which includes essential features. The midtier SV trim, priced at $20,490, adds more amenities like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The top SR trim, costing $21,190, includes heated seats, adaptive cruise control, and additional advanced features, making it the best value if your budget allows.
For the best combination of features and price, the SR trim is recommended. It offers all the features of the base S trim with added luxuries like an 8-inch touch screen, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. At under $22,000, it provides great value for a well-equipped subcompact car.
The 2025 Nissan Versa is an affordable, fuel-efficient car that offers good value and a comfortable driving experience.
While it may not have exciting performance or high-end features, it excels in practicality and cost-effectiveness. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly vehicle that gets the job done, the Versa is a solid choice.
