2022 Kia Rio

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

Nissan Altima

Five Cars With The Highest Premiums

Turns out that the type of vehicle you are driving can have more of an impact on your car insurance premium than any hiccups in your driving history.
November 11, 2026 Kaddy Gibson
1971 Chevrolet Camaro Z28

Muscle Cars That Were Everywhere In The 1970s—But Are Rarely Seen Today

These 25 muscle cars once ruled 1970s streets but are rarely spotted today. Remember their roaring V8 engines, bold styling, and legendary power?
November 10, 2026 Allison Robertson
That Little Sticker Can Start A Real Fight

My dealership wants a fee to remove its own advertising sticker. Can they really charge me for their oversight?

You finally bought the car, signed the papers, and drove it home. Then you notice the dealer’s badge or decal stuck on the trunk, liftgate, or bumper. If the store later says it will charge to remove that advertising, it is fair to ask a simple question: can it really do that?
November 10, 2026 Miles Brucker
The Fine Print Tells The Real Story

My dealership says its service contract covers everything except "wear items." That makes me nervous, what counts as wear?

“Covers everything except wear items” sounds reassuring right up until something expensive breaks and the service advisor says it is not covered. This is where a lot of car owners discover that “wear” can be broader than they expected. The key is not the slogan on the brochure, but the exact contract language that defines what a wear item is and what failures are excluded.
November 10, 2026 Miles Brucker
The Big Screen Debate

My daughter wants a giant infotainment screen in our new car. Bigger screens feel more distracting, are they less safe?

Your daughter is not alone. Giant infotainment screens have become one of the hottest selling points in new cars, with dashboard displays now stretching 15 inches, 17 inches, and even wider in some models. The real question for parents and shoppers is not whether they look cool, but whether they pull a driver’s eyes and mind away from the road.
November 10, 2026 Miles Brucker


✕