The Five Most Affordable New Cars

The Five Most Affordable New Cars


July 9, 2023 | Kaddy Gibson

The Five Most Affordable New Cars


It is no surprise that vehicles have gotten more expensive over the last few years. Luckily, there are some good base models that are still below the $20,000 mark. If you're looking for a new car with automatic transmission, we’ve got you covered. Keep reading to learn about the most affordable new cars on the market.


Chevrolet Spark LS

2022 Chevrolet SparkChevrolet Press Room

Advertisement

The 2022 Chevrolet Spark LS is the cheapest new car on the market. With a starting price of about $15,600, the base model of this subcompact hatchback features important technology like Bluetooth audio and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The only drawbacks to the Spark are its snug backseat and small engine. But despite these critiques, the Spark is still a good all-around car, especially considering the low price tag.

Mitsubishi Mirage ES

2022 Mitsubishi MirageMitsubishi Press Room

Advertisement

The 2022 Mitsubishi Mirage ES is another affordable subcompact hatchback. Compared to the Spark, the Mirage has a bit more leg room in the back and slightly better fuel efficiency. The Mirage also has good handling and overall performance, though it is slower than the other cars on this list. Starting at just under $17,000, the base model comes equipped with Bluetooth technology and standard safety features like pedestrian detection and automatic emergency braking.

Kia Rio LX

2022 Kia RioKia Press Room

Advertisement

The 2022 Kia Rio LX has good fuel economy and overall performance. It also has tech features like an 8-inch touchscreen, rear camera, and wireless Apple CarPlay. The base model has a starting price of about $17,200 and includes safety features like electronic stability control and an anti-lock braking system. You will have to pay a fair bit more if you want blind-spot collision warning and automatic emergency braking.

Nissan Versa S

2022 Nissan VersaNissan Press Room

Advertisement

Few affordable cars perform as well as the 2022 Nissan Versa S, and it’s packed with useful technology. The base model of the Versa offers more safety features than any other car on this list. Starting at around $17,600, the Versa has automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, and lane departure warnings. It is also equipped with Bluetooth audio, automatic headlights, and push-button start.

Hyundai Accent SE

2022 Hyundai AccentHyundai Press Room

Advertisement

The 2022 Hyundai Accent SE has a decent amount of pep beneath the hood and good fuel efficiency. The base model has a starting price of just under $17,700, and includes features like power windows and locks, Bluetooth connectivity, and steering wheel audio controls. If you are looking for other features, such as Apple CarPlay or automatic emergency braking, you’ll have to shell out a bit more for the Accent SEL or Limited.

You don’t have to break the bank to get a new car. If you just need your ride to have reliable performance and good fuel efficiency, choose from one of these affordable options.

 

Sources: 1, 2


READ MORE

AI-generated image of two motorcyclists waving as they pass each other.

The Hidden History Behind The Motorcycle Wave And Nod

The motorcycle wave might seem random at first, but it’s actually one of the oldest and most meaningful traditions in motorcycling.
May 11, 2026 Quinn Mercer
Blue Chevrolet Camaro on Tacuba Street in Mexico City

Affordable Modern Muscle Cars That Won’t Stay Cheap Once Collectors Catch On

Muscle cars don’t have to cost six figures to be fun or collectible. Whether it’s a supercharged V8, a manual transmission, or just pure attitude, these vehicles deliver serious performance without completely draining your wallet.
April 28, 2026 Quinn Mercer
A light blue Porsche Taycan Turbo S Cross Turismo

Cars That Have Been Recalled So Many Times, We Can’t Believe They’re Still On The Road

Not all recalls are created equal, and they don’t always mean a car is bad. In many cases, recalls are tied to software fixes, supplier issues, or early production bugs that get ironed out over time. That said, some vehicles rack up a surprising number of them. The figures below are based on Expected 30-Year Lifetime Recalls, which estimate how often a model will be recalled over its lifespan. Some of these might surprise you.
April 27, 2026 Peter Kinney
AI-generated image of a car collector standing next to a 1968 Dodge Charger

Incredible Collector Cars That Continue To Reward Owners With Rising Values

Not every collector car needs to be a million-dollar Ferrari to be worth watching. Some of the smartest buys are the ones flying under the radar—cars that enthusiasts love, production numbers are shrinking, and demand is slowly heating up. These are the vehicles that keep creeping upward in value, sometimes faster than you’d expect.
May 4, 2026 Quinn Mercer
Man standing in front of classic muscle cars

Classic Muscle Cars That Are Impossible To Find Now—According To Collectors

These 20 classic muscle cars are incredibly rare today, with low production numbers and high collector demand making them nearly impossible to find on the open market.
April 20, 2026 Allison Robertson
A green McLaren 720S parked outdoors.

Supercars That Are So Loud, We Still Can’t Believe They’re Street-Legal

Speed gets all the headlines, but sound is what really sticks with you. A screaming V10 at redline or a thunderous supercharged V8 can turn a simple drive into a full-on event. These are the machines that pushed noise levels to the extreme, proving that sometimes louder really is better.
April 6, 2026 Quinn Mercer