Driving Affordability Home In 2025
This year’s new models prove you don’t need a huge budget to score a stylish, reliable car. It’s about finding the right fit, and trust us, it’s easier than ever.
2025 Nissan Versa S ($17,190–$18,990)
Available with either a manual or automatic transmission, the Versa S keeps things simple without stripping away essentials. Its 177.4-inch length even makes parking a breeze for those who struggle with parking. Combined EPA mileage hits 35 mpg, and Safety Shield 360 brings key safety systems into every drive.
2025 Nissan Versa S - Cheapest New Vehicle in America! by Executive Auto
2024 Mitsubishi Mirage ES ($18,295)
Mitsubishi ended Mirage production in late 2024, so the ES trim won’t return for 2025. However, leftover 2024 models may remain on lots through midyear. These include a 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine, a five-speed manual transmission, 36/43 mpg fuel efficiency, steel wheels, and a 7-inch touchscreen.
2024 Mitsubishi Mirage: Is It FINALLY Better? by Overdrive Reviews
2025 Kia Rio S ($21,990–$28,090)
Running a 120-hp 1.6-liter engine, the Rio S manages 33 mpg in the city and 41 mpg on the highway. Its 11-inch touchscreen includes wireless phone mirroring, and thanks to Kia’s strong warranties, the overall package helps ease ownership without stretching your monthly budget.
Kia Rio: This Affordable Car Was Way Better Than You Think by Kia Hyundai Channel
2025 Kia Soul LX ($20,490)
Blending practicality with personality, the Soul LX makes a strong impression. Its 147-horsepower engine delivers a solid 30 mpg combined, and with 24.2 cubic feet of cargo space, versatility stays front and center. Add in innovative safety features, and you’ve got confidence baked into every drive, without losing its functional charm.
2025 Kia Soul LX: TEST DRIVE+FULL REVIEW by W.T.F Car Reviews
2025 Hyundai Elantra SE ($23,370)
The Elantra SE pairs everyday ease with refined efficiency, thanks to its 147-horsepower engine that glides through commutes and achieves 36 mpg combined. Step into the cabin, and an 8-inch touchscreen, along with wireless smartphone features, creates a seamless digital space. Sleek lines complete its polished, approachable exterior.
2025 Hyundai Elantra Review | The Best Value Sedan? by AutoWeb
2025 Toyota Corolla LE ($22,325)
Delivering 169 horsepower and 35 mpg combined, the Corolla LE blends strength with fuel efficiency. Toyota’s Safety Sense 2.0 adds radar-guided cruise control for smooth driving support. Within the cabin, an 8-inch touchscreen handles tech needs, and a wireless charging pad upgrade brings extra convenience when needed.
2025 Toyota Corolla LE: Is It Worth IT? Full Specs & Test Drive by Hawkeye Rides
2025 Volkswagen Jetta S ($22,495)
The Jetta S is built around comfort, from its smooth-shifting 8-speed automatic to the hushed cabin that keeps road noise out. App-Connect brings your smartphone into the fold without fuss, and with 34 mpg combined, it’s designed to go the distance between fill-ups. But dealer and destination fees may apply.
2025 Nissan Sentra S ($21,590)
Split-folding rear seats and a 7-inch touchscreen support daily errands effortlessly. And the model’s standard blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert enhance awareness on the road. Additional fees may apply beyond MSRP for the base S trim of the 2025 Nissan Sentra S, which produces 149 hp and 34 mpg.
2025 Nissan Sentra S San Antonio, Austin, Houston, New Braunfels, Helotes TX by Gunn Nissan
2025 Chevrolet Spark 2LT ($17,000–$18,100)
The 2LT trim pairs a 1.4-liter 4-cylinder engine with either a 5-speed manual or CVT, with starting prices from $17,000 to $18,100. This compact hatch offers 19.2 cubic feet of cargo room and 33 mpg combined, whilst the 7-inch touchscreen simplifies in-dash phone controls.
Damian B Oh, Wikimedia Commons
2025 Kia K4 LX ($21,990)
Clarity takes center stage inside the K4 LX, thanks to a 12.3-inch touchscreen and a crisp digital cluster. Its 147-hp engine produces 34 mpg combined, and the forward-collision warning and high-beam assist strengthen the case for a sedan that feels more refined than its price suggests.
The NEW 2025 KIA K4 LX. Most affordable sedan? by Vagabond Builds
2025 Hyundai Venue SE ($20,200)
Sliding rear seats help make the most out of tight parking spots and add flexibility where it counts. Wireless CarPlay and Blue Link bring useful tech without adding cost. Despite its small footprint, the Hyundai Venue SE still delivers 121 horsepower and a combined 31 mpg rating.
2025 Hyundai Venue Review | Starting at ONLY $20K by Gold Pony
2025 Chevrolet Trax LS ($20,500)
Chevy Safety Assist supports every drive, which makes the Trax LS feel more secure on the road. A 137-hp turbo engine keeps it light on fuel by returning 30 mpg combined. The cabin’s interior features a modern look, starting with an 8-inch screen that keeps everything connected.
New Color For 2025 - Cypress Gray! | 2025 Chevy Trax LS | Overview by C. Harper Auto Group
2025 Nissan Kicks Play S ($21,520)
Two 7-inch screens bring a sleek, modern layout that keeps the cabin simple to use. The Kicks Play S follows through with a 141-hp engine and a strong 33 mpg efficiency rating. Floating roof lines add visual flair, and the 2-year maintenance plan seals the deal.
2025 Nissan Kicks Play SV Review - Park Mazda by Park Mazda
2025 Subaru Crosstrek Base ($26,560)
Without the bulk of a big SUV, the Crosstrek Base makes light trails and errands easy. Its AWD system comes standard, as does 8.7 inches of ground clearance. EPA ratings hit 28 city and 33 highway, with EyeSight® adding adaptive cruise and automatic braking.
2025 Subaru Crosstrek BASE | Honest Review and 0-60 by Automotive Anonymous
2025 Kia Seltos LX ($25,044–$26,085)
The vehicle offers roof rails for added versatility as well as a crisp 8-inch touchscreen for a modern interior touch. A 146-hp engine delivers 31 mpg combined, and wireless phone mirroring ties the cabin’s tech together seamlessly. Here, you get an innovative design that fits everyday practicality.
2025 Kia Seltos -- What's NEW for 2025?? (Still One of the Best??) by Car Confections
2025 Toyota Corolla Cross L ($24,035)
You get 26.5 cubic feet of rear cargo room—plenty for weekend gear or grocery hauls. The 169-hp engine handles daily drives with ease, and its 32 mpg fuel economy keeps costs in check. All-wheel drive adds extra traction, and Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 plus blind-spot monitoring come standard.
2025 Toyota Corolla Cross L Review - A Basic Yet Suitable Sub $30k Baby RAV4 by Boston Auto Blog
2025 Volkswagen Taos S ($26,695–$24,995)
Economy doesn’t mean cutting back, especially with 37.6 cubic feet of cargo space and 32 mpg combined. The turbocharged 158-hp engine helps the Taos S stay light on its feet, and the 6.5-inch touchscreen plus Front Assist tech provide real usefulness in a base trim.
2025 Volkswagen Taos | MotorWeek Road Test by MotorWeek
2025 Mazda CX-30 Select ($25,195–$37,600)
Standard AWD brings confident handling to the Mazda CX-30 Select, which also pairs 186 horsepower with 28 mpg combined. Within the cabin, underfloor storage and 20.2 cubic feet of space keep things flexible enough for daily routines and weekend plans. Driver safety is covered through i-Activsense.
2025 Mazda CX-30 Select Sport - The Sweet Spot by 703Speed
2025 Kia Sportage LX ($29,190–27,390)
Confident on the road, the Sportage LX runs a 187-hp engine and still manages 27 mpg combined. It feels built for the long haul, thanks to a free 3-year maintenance plan. Factor in dual-zone climate and strong warranty coverage, and the value truly holds up.
The 2025 Kia Sportage LX - Get This or Save $2000? by Kia Hyundai Channel
2025 Honda HR-V LX ($25,400)
To handle shifting cargo needs, the Magic Seat® system and 24.3 cubic feet of space make reconfiguration simple. Power comes from a 158-hp engine that returns 30 mpg combined. For added assurance, driver-assist features from Honda Sensing® support every trip in the HR-V LX.
2025 Honda HR-V HRV LX -- Quick Look by MikesCarInfo
2025 Toyota Corolla Hybrid LE ($23,825)
Fuel savings and reliability come bundled here. The 2025 Corolla Hybrid LE uses a 1.8-liter Atkinson-cycle engine paired with dual electric motors to produce 138 hp and return 50 mpg combined. A plus? Toyota includes TSS 2.0 and a 10-year/150,000-mile hybrid battery warranty.
2025 Toyota Corolla Hybrid Review | 50+ MPG’s! by Gold Pony
2025 Mazda3 Sedan 2.5 S ($24,150)
Blending sleek design with everyday punch, the Mazda3 Sedan 2.5 S brings 191 hp and delivers 31 mpg without missing a beat. Its refined suspension keeps the ride smooth, and with an 8.8-inch display and smart safety tech, it’s as polished as it is practical.
2025 Nissan Leaf S ($28,140)
This all-electric hatch comes with 149 miles of EPA-estimated range from a 40 kWh battery and a 149 hp motor. CHAdeMO quick charging reaches 80% in 40 minutes, and its tech, like ProPILOT Assist and an 8-inch screen, helps the Leaf S feel future-ready.
The New 2025 Nissan Leaf S at Nissan of Cookeville by Nissan of Cookeville
2025 Kia Niro Hybrid LX ($28,385)
The 2025 Kia Niro Hybrid LX offers 22.8 cubic feet of cargo space, complemented by a fold-flat rear bench that creates room for weekend hauls. Wireless mirroring joins an 8-inch display for easy syncing. Under the hood, a 1.6-liter hybrid powertrain produces 53 mpg city and 46 highway.
2025 Kia Niro LX: The BEST Hybrid CUV? by Chabby's Rides
2025 Toyota Prius L ($29,485)
Strong fuel economy is achieved with 57 mpg city and 56 mpg highway, and a 10-speaker JBL system adds extra clarity throughout the cabin. With 194 horsepower, acceleration remains lively. The sleek 2025 Toyota Prius L also stands out for its 0.24 drag coefficient.
2025 Toyota Prius Overview | Toyota by Toyota USA by Toyota USA
2025 Chevrolet Bolt EV LS ($32,000)
Quick charging and long range rarely show up together at this price, yet the Bolt EV LS pulls it off. It gives off 200 hp and 259 miles of electric driving, plus regenerative braking and a 10-year battery warranty for lasting peace of mind.
ULTIUM POWER! UNVEILING THE ALL-NEW 2025 CHEVY BOLT EV by NamCar
2025 Ford Maverick XL Hybrid ($28,145)
Compact in size but not in spirit, this hybrid has 191 hp and hauls up to 1,500 pounds with ease. The Maverick XL Hybrid also manages 42 mpg in the city, and Ford’s Co-Pilot360 suite adds driver confidence through blind-spot and cross-traffic alerts.
2025 Ford Maverick XL Review - How Is This The ONLY Sub $30k Pickup Truck? by Boston Auto Blog
2025 Mazda3 Hatchback 2.5 S ($24,950–$26,190)
An 8.8-inch display and premium trim set the tone inside, with the option for a manual gearbox reinforcing a fun-to-drive spirit. The 20.8 cubic feet of cargo space on this ride adds daily utility. Altogether, the Mazda3 Hatchback brings 191 hp with smooth, responsive control.
2025 Mazda3 Hatchback Preferred Review - BETTER Than The Honda Civic? by Boston Auto Blog
2025 Subaru Impreza RS ($28,676–$30,420)
Errands in town blend easily with weekend trail runs due to the RS’s adaptable design. Standard AWD in the 2025 Subaru Impreza RS confidently directs 182 hp across varied terrain. Rally suspension, 30 mpg, EyeSight® tech, and 18-inch wheels keep the drive balanced and capable throughout.
2025 Subaru Impreza RS | Honest Review and 0-60 by Automotive Anonymous
2025 Buick Envista Sport Touring ($25,795)
Refined comfort takes the lead in the Envista Sport Touring, where active noise cancellation keeps rides quiet and calm. The Touring got 137 hp under the hood and sips fuel at 29 mpg. Toss in an 11-inch touchscreen and optional Bose audio, and things feel effortlessly premium.
2025 Buick Envista Sport Touring: Start Up, Test Drive & In Depth Review by Saabkyle04
2025 Subaru Outback Base ($29,995)
A 2.5-liter flat-4 brings 182 hp to this all-weather wagon, which returns 28 mpg combined and features standard AWD. EyeSight tech supports daily safety, while dual 7-inch displays handle media and controls. The 2025 Subaru Outback Base holds firm to its rugged yet practical identity.
2025 Chevrolet Trailblazer ACTIV ($28,995)
Urban dwellers with a taste for adventure can count on the Trailblazer ACTIV to keep up. This trim pushes 155 hp through the front wheels, and rugged accents, including skid plates, support light trail use. OnStar and other extras bring tech convenience alongside a solid 29 mpg rating.
2025 Chevrolet Trailblazer ACTIV Review And Features by Joshua McDonald
2025 Ford Bronco Sport Base ($30,995)
Easygoing daily commutes get a boost from GOAT Modes®, which maintain the Bronco Sport Base’s trail chops. This Bronco’s interior has an 8.8-inch touchscreen that adds digital flair. Meanwhile, its EcoBoost engine produces 181 hp, and the 25.1-cubic-foot cargo hold keeps weekend runs flexible and practical.
2025 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend Review: Is the Base Model Worth It? 🚙 by CMA Reviews
2025 Honda Civic Sedan LX ($24,250)
Compact and composed, the 2025 Civic LX pairs a 150-hp 2.0L engine with smooth CVT performance. Fuel economy reaches 36 mpg combined, and safety tech comes standard through the Honda Sensing suite. In the cabin, a 7-inch screen offers wireless smartphone pairing for everyday ease.
2025 Honda Civic LX - What Can You Expect For Less Than $26,000? by Vehicle Visionary
2025 Toyota Corolla Hatchback XSE ($28,175)
Style shows up with purpose in the XSE, as a sport-tuned suspension sharpens every twist in the road. The standard 6-speed manual adds a tactile edge, and 169 hp, combined with 30 mpg, rounds things out. Top it off with optional JBL audio for an extra punch.
2025 Toyota Corolla XSE Hatchback: TEST DRIVE+FULL REVIEW by W.T.F Car Reviews
2025 Honda Civic Sport ($26,250)
Sharper styling gives this trim a confident edge. Under the hood, the 2025 Honda Civic Sport produces 180 horsepower from its turbocharged engine and reaches a combined 36 mpg. Sport seats and 18-inch wheels add flair, and Honda Sensing® enhances its well-rounded, tech-forward personality.
2025 Honda Civic Sport Sedan: Start Up, Walkaround, Test Drive and Review by Bros FOURR Speed
2025 Toyota Tacoma SR ($31,590)
A 2.7-liter engine powers the 2025 Tacoma SR with 159 hp and up to 1,440 pounds of hauling through its 6-foot bed. Lane alerts and a Pre-Collision System boost confidence, while 21 mpg adds practicality. Capability leads here without straying from everyday sensibility.
2025 Toyota Tacoma SR POV Test Drive & Review by Nothin’ But Car Reviews
2025 Nissan Frontier S ($33,560)
Beneath the rugged build sits a V6 cranking 310 hp and towing up to 6,720 pounds. The 6-foot bed and 1,460-lb payload keep it ready for work, and Nissan’s 3-year/36,000-mile safety coverage helps make the Frontier S a long-haul partner.
Bring Back Affordable Trucks! (2025 Nissan Frontier S) by Ben Hardy
2025 Kia K4 GT-Line ($26,345–$29,245)
The Kia K4 GT-Line pairs a 190-hp turbocharged engine with paddle shifters and GT-style seating to sharpen the driving feel. Bold lines shape its exterior, and high-tech features—such as a 12.3-inch display and a Bose sound system—enhance the experience throughout the driver-focused interior.
The 2025 Kia K4 GT-Line Turbo the MOST affordable sport sedan! by Raiti’s Rides
2025 Volkswagen Jetta GLI ($32,715)
Sporty features and real driving engagement combine here. In the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta GLI, a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine cranks out 228 hp. Red calipers, a sport-tuned chassis, and your choice of 6-speed manual or DSG add sharp control to its 27/37/31 mpg balance.
You Won't Believe the POWER of the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta GLI Autobahn by Bros FOURR Speed
2025 Mazda MX-5 Miata Sport ($29,530)
With 181 hp at its core, the 2025 Mazda MX-5 Miata Sport dashes from 0 to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds. A lightweight frame and manual soft top enhance agility, while a limited-slip differential and quick reflexes ensure every corner feels deliberate and rewarding.
2025 Mazda MX-5 Miata Review | Still the Enthusiast’s Choice? by EURO CAR GUY
2025 Ford Mustang EcoBoost ($27,770–$39,540)
With 25 mpg combined and digital gauges, the 2025 Ford Mustang EcoBoost keeps daily driving in check—until the 310-hp turbo engine kicks in. Add an optional manual and active exhaust, and this trim becomes something far more thrilling than your average commuter car.
2025 Ford Mustang Ecoboost Premium POV Test Drive & Review by Nothin’ But Car Reviews
2025 Hyundai Venue Limited ($22,450)
The Hyundai Venue Limited offers 121 hp, paired with 31 mpg, maintaining efficiency without compromising character. For winter drives, 17-inch wheels, “Snow” mode, and automatic climate control ensure smooth travel. Blue Link services complete the setup with smart tech that adds everyday convenience for drivers.
New 2025 Hyundai Venue Limited at Hyundai of Cookeville by Hyundai of Cookeville
2025 Chevrolet Trailblazer RS ($27,700)
A turbocharged engine delivers 137 hp and keeps fuel use smart at 29 mpg, which makes the Trailblazer RS as efficient as it is bold. Chevrolet adds a 7-inch display and wireless phone features, while blacked-out accents and street-ready styling give this compact ride serious curb appeal.
2025 Chevrolet TrailBlazer RS POV Test Drive & Review by Nothin’ But Car Reviews
