Today, we’re focusing on budget-friendly commuter cars. With average new car prices approaching $50,000, our list features the top 10 most affordable new cars you can buy today, all with monthly payments of $300 or less.
Let’s start with the Ford EcoSport!
#10 – Ford EcoSport – Starting at $22,040
First on our list is the Ford EcoSport, a subcompact SUV that offers both economy and sportiness. With an estimated combined fuel mileage of up to 28 mpg, the EcoSport is easy on the wallet. Under the hood, you’ll find a 2.0-liter engine producing 166 horsepower and 149 lb-ft of torque. The available four-wheel drive system even allows for some light off-roading. Its spacious interior and user-friendly controls make the EcoSport a great option for families and road trip enthusiasts. With a starting price of $22,040 or just under $300 per month, it’s an attractive choice for a fuel-efficient SUV.
#9 – Toyota Corolla – $21,550
Toyota’s subcompact Corolla is definitely worth considering as a budget-friendly commuter. With a 1.8-liter engine producing 139 horsepower and 126 lb-ft of torque, this car boasts an impressive 34 mpg. The Corolla features a striking exterior, a comfortable interior with easy-to-access controls, and a smooth driving experience. With a price tag of $21,550 or just under $300 per month, the Corolla is a smart investment.
#8 – Volkswagen Jetta – $20,655
The Volkswagen Jetta is a German-engineered compact car that turns every drive into a joyride. With a turbocharged inline-four engine producing 158 horsepower and a fuel economy of 34 mpg, the Jetta is both fun and efficient. The modern, sleek design makes it look more expensive than it actually is. It’s no surprise that this model is one of the best-selling Volkswagens of all time. At $20,655 or $287 per month, the Jetta offers exceptional build quality for the price.
#7 – Kia Soul – Starting at $19,890
The Kia Soul is as unique as its drivers. Its 2.0-liter engine produces up to 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque, with a combined fuel economy of 31 mpg. The Soul’s compact size and nimble handling make it perfect for navigating busy city streets. Its spacious and stylish interior appeals to drivers of all ages, and it boasts the best powertrain warranty in the industry. At just under $20k or $275 per month, the Soul is an excellent value for an all-around commuter.
#6 – Subaru Impreza – $19,795
The Subaru Impreza is designed to take you on adventures you’ve only dreamed of. With an impressive combined gas mileage of up to 32 miles per gallon, you can travel further without constantly stopping at the pump. Equipped with a robust 2.0-liter engine, the Impreza generates up to 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque, making it perfect for both city streets and off-road exploration. Opt for the manual transmission to truly unleash its all-wheel drive capabilities and agile handling. Though the CVT transmission may not be as thrilling, it’s more than suitable for daily driving and errands. The Impreza’s comfortable and tech-laden interior is sure to impress, as is its budget-friendly price tag of $19,795 or $275 per month!
#5 – Hyundai Venue SE SUV – $19,650
Hyundai’s Venue, the smallest SUV in their lineup, offers a stylish and practical driving experience with a combined gas mileage of 32 mpg. Powered by a 1.6-liter engine that delivers up to 121 horsepower and 113 lb-ft of torque, this compact vehicle is perfect for navigating city streets. The spacious and comfortable interior makes the Venue an excellent choice for long road trips and versatile daily driving. Get your hands on this entry-level SUV for just $19,650 or $270 per month.
#4 – Kia Rio – $16,750
The 2023 Kia Rio has earned the title of Best Subcompact Car for the Money from US News & World Report, and for good reason! With a combined 36 mpg fuel efficiency, the Rio’s 1.6-liter engine generates up to 120 horsepower and 112 lb-ft of torque, providing a reliable and effortless drive. Its solid build quality and standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto make this budget-friendly car an even more attractive option. Drive home a winner for only $16,750 or $233 per month.
#3 – Mitsubishi Mirage ES Hatchback – $16,245
While the Mirage ES Hatchback may not be the highest-ranked vehicle in its class, it still offers undeniable value with its starting price of $16,245 or $226 per month. The compact 1.2-liter, 3-cylinder engine produces 78 horsepower and 74 lb-ft of torque, making it perfect for city driving and tight parking situations. With a combined 39 mpg fuel economy, this front-wheel drive hatchback is the most fuel-efficient non-hybrid gasoline-powered car in the United States.
#2 – Nissan Versa – $15,830
The Nissan Versa is an affordable subcompact option with a combined fuel efficiency of 35 mpg. Powered by a 1.6-liter engine that generates up to 122 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque, the Versa may not be the quickest car on the market, but it offers a great deal of value with its standard driving assistance technology. Ideal for students, the Versa is inexpensive to insure and receives top marks for safety. Drive home this budget-conscious option for just $15,830 or $220 per month.
#1 – Chevrolet Spark LS Hatchback – $14,595
The Chevrolet Spark LS Hatchback features a modest 1.4-liter engine that produces less than 100 horses.. and is the smallest car on this list at just 143 inches in length! But, it is the ideal pick because value per dollar, there just isn’t anything else on the market!
Which one would you pick?
