June 23, 2025
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The 10 Best Cheap Cars on the Market Right Now, According to Consumer Reports (And Why Your Uncle Was Actually Right)

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The 10 Best Cheap Cars on the Market Right Now, According to Consumer Reports (And Why Your Uncle Was Actually Right)

 Cheap Cars Aren’t Dead — They Just Got Smarter

Let me paint a scene for you: last week, my co-worker Dave (you know, the guy who still uses a flip phone) pulled into the office parking lot in a brand-new car. We all assumed he finally gave in and financed some Tesla clone. Nope. It was a $22,000 Hyundai Elantra — sleek, fuel-efficient, and loaded with features like wireless CarPlay and lane assist.

Yeah, I was shook too.

Let’s be real—with prices of everything from eggs to electricity skyrocketing, the idea of buying a brand new car sounds like a luxury cruise. But surprise! Consumer Reports just dropped a list of the 10 best affordable cars, and guess what? There are still some seriously solid, cheap rides out there that don’t feel like you’re driving a lawnmower.

The Best Cheap Cars That Don’t Feel Like a Compromise

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 1. Toyota Corolla

Reliable as ever. In the U.S., the Corolla is basically the cockroach of the car world (in a good way) — it just won’t die.
Real talk: It’s not sexy, but it’ll outlive your iPhone.

Pro tip: Check certified pre-owned 2021–2023 models. They’re cheaper, but still under warranty.

 2. Mazda3

Handles like a sporty car, priced like a family sedan. Bonus: interior feels kinda luxury.

Anecdote: My cousin in Atlanta picked one up used for $18K and people keep asking if it’s a BMW. He doesn’t correct them.

 3. Hyundai Elantra

This one’s on fire right now in cities like Dallas and Phoenix. Packed with tech — but still under $24K.

Key Detail: Wireless Android Auto, remote start, and solid MPG.

 4. Honda Civic

Yeah yeah, you’ve heard it a million times. But there’s a reason: dependable, decent-looking, fun-ish to drive.

Weird tip: Insurance is often cheaper on the hatchback version vs. the sedan. Don’t ask why.

 5. Subaru Impreza

AWD standard. Great for folks up north or rainy states like Oregon.

Local Insight: In upstate New York, this car is basically mandatory for winter driving.

 6. Kia Forte

Think of it as Elantra’s budget-conscious cousin. Smooth ride, smart tech, and it usually comes with big dealer incentives.

Pro tip: Look for leftover 2024 models this summer — major discounts are popping up.

 7. Nissan Sentra

Not exciting, but extremely functional. CVT issues from the past seem mostly fixed in newer models.

Friendly warning: Skip base trims — go at least one level up for safety features and touchscreen.

8. Chevy Bolt (EV)

Yup, an electric car made the list — and it’s often cheaper after tax incentives.

Key Detail: Consumer Reports gives it high marks for reliability and fun-to-drive factor.

Tip: Google your state’s EV rebates — some give back up to $5,000.

 9. Mitsubishi Mirage

Let’s not sugarcoat it — it’s not fancy. But it’s dirt cheap (under $18K new), easy to park, and sips fuel like a hummingbird.

Humor alert: Feels like driving a soda can… but a dependable soda can.

 10. Ford Maverick (Hybrid)

Technically a pickup. But hear me out — it gets 37 MPG and starts around $24K. That’s bananas for a truck.

True story: My uncle in Ohio uses one to haul tools and take the kids to soccer practice. It’s his midlife crisis car, but… practical.

You Don’t Need to Be Rich to Drive Smart

So, no — you don’t need a six-figure job to get a solid set of wheels.

Consumer Reports’ list proves it: reliable, safe, even kinda stylish cars do exist under $25K — and they’re not just stripped-down tin cans anymore.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer, recent grad, or someone just trying to escape the horrors of monthly Uber rides, there’s hope.

Take action:

  • Check local dealer markdowns on 2024 models (especially this summer).

  • Don’t skip state-level EV tax rebates.

  • Use Consumer Reports’ “Build & Buy” tool to compare trim levels fast.

Your wallet doesn’t have to cry just because you need a car.

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