The landscape of what constitutes an “affordable” new car has shifted dramatically in recent years. What was considered budget-friendly just five years ago is a distant memory, yet a surprising truth remains: there are still remarkably affordable new vehicles available on the market, spanning sedans, hatchbacks, and even SUVs. We’re talking about cars that redefine value, proving that a tight budget doesn’t mean compromising on essential features or a decent driving experience.
This in-depth guide dives into America’s cheapest new cars for 2025, specifically those that come in under the $25,000 mark. In fact, two of the models we’ll explore can be had for less than $20,000, presenting truly compelling options for buyers watching every dollar. Our goal is to cut through the noise and provide a clear, practical evaluation, ensuring you can make an informed decision about which budget-friendly ride truly delivers genuine value.
It’s important to note that the prices quoted throughout this article are manufacturer’s suggested retail prices (MSRPs) and include destination and freight charges. However, they do not factor in other mandatory fees like tax, title, and licensing, which can vary by state and region. We always recommend checking with your local dealership for the most accurate pricing and availability in your specific area. Now, let’s explore the contenders, starting with the absolute cheapest.
1. **2025 Nissan Versa**Claiming the crown as America’s cheapest new car, the 2025 Nissan Versa starts at an impressive $17,190. This subcompact sedan challenges preconceived notions of what a budget vehicle can offer, packing a surprising number of features despite its minimal price tag. For those who appreciate traditional driving, the very cheapest model comes standard with a 5-speed manual transmission, a rare find in today’s market.
While a stick shift certainly helps keep the price low, buyers seeking more convenience can upgrade to a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) for an additional $1,800, bringing the total to $20,130. This flexibility allows the Versa to cater to a broader range of drivers, whether they prefer engaging with a manual or the ease of an automatic. The upgrade option ensures that even with a CVT, the Versa remains exceptionally affordable.
Beyond its initial low cost, the Versa excels in practicality. It boasts a trunk that can swallow more cargo than its subcompact classification might suggest, making it a viable option for grocery runs or weekend trips. Fuel efficiency is another strong suit, with solid ratings of 32/40 mpg. This combination of low entry price and economical operation makes it a true wallet’s best friend, minimizing both upfront and ongoing expenses.
Admittedly, the Versa won’t be winning any beauty contests, nor will its engine sound like a library during acceleration. However, it perfectly nails the basics: dependable transportation, good gas mileage, and more car than its price suggests. For anyone prioritizing pure affordability and reliable point-A-to-point-B functionality without unnecessary frills, the 2025 Nissan Versa is a compelling, straightforward choice that just works.
Car Model Information: 2021 Nissan Versa 1.6 S
Categories: All set index articles, Articles with short description, CS1 Mexican Spanish-language sources (es-mx), CS1 Portuguese-language sources (pt), CS1 Spanish-language sources (es)
Summary: Nissan Versa is an automobile nameplate used by the Japanese manufacturer Nissan in the Americas for the following models:
According to a Nissan press release in 2008, “versa” is short for “versatile space” meant to imply the spaciousness of the interior and configurable cargo arrangements. The Versa is one of the few remaining subcompact cars left on sale in the North American market, with most automakers dropping small cars from their lineups to focus on crossovers and SUVs.
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Brand: Nissan Model: Versa
Price: $13,282 Mileage: 42,593 mi.
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2. **2025 Hyundai Venue**The 2025 Hyundai Venue proudly holds the title of America’s cheapest crossover SUV, with a starting price of $20,200. For buyers keen on SUV styling without the typical SUV price premium, the Venue presents itself as an accessible entry point into the segment. It positions itself as a practical urban navigator, thanks to its compact footprint.
On the positive side, the Venue delivers good gas mileage, contributing to lower running costs, and comes backed by Hyundai’s well-regarded warranty, offering peace of mind. Its robust value proposition is further highlighted by its recognition with the Lowest 5-Year Cost to Own award, indicating significant savings beyond the initial purchase. The compact size, while potentially limiting for some, undeniably assists with tight city parking.
However, in the spirit of thorough review, it’s essential to acknowledge where the Venue makes its compromises. The interior plastics, as noted by some, can convey a sense that corners were cut to achieve its attractive price point. Furthermore, the 1.6-liter engine, while adequate for city driving, has been described as feeling somewhat sluggish, particularly during acceleration or when attempting highway merges.
Passenger comfort, particularly in the rear, can also be affected by its compact dimensions. While the Venue exists to fill a specific niche – that of an SUV-styled vehicle on a shoestring budget – it does so with a clear understanding of its limitations. If an elevated seating position and crossover aesthetics are non-negotiable for your budget, the Venue offers an option, but discerning buyers should be aware of its inherent trade-offs.
Car Model Information: 2022 Hyundai VENUE Limited
Name: Hyundai Venue
Caption: 2022 Hyundai Venue Preferred (Canada)
ModelCode: QX
Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor Company
Production: 2019–present
ModelYears: 2020–present
Assembly: ubl
Designer: Chan-Hee Lee, Duck-Hyun Hwang and Goo LeeCite patent
Country: US
Number: D901332
Title: Motor car
Pubdate: Mon Nov 09 2020 16:00:00 GMT-0800 (Pacific Standard Time)
Inventor1Last: Lee
Inventor1First: Chan-Hee
Inventor2Last: Hwang
Inventor2First: Duck-Hyun
Inventor3Last: Lee
Inventor3First: Goo
Assign1: Hyundai Motor Co.
Assign2: Kia Motors Corp.
Class: Subcompact crossover SUV
BodyStyle: Sport utility vehicle
Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel-drive
Platform: Hyundai-Kia K2 platform
Related: Hyundai Accent#HC,Kia Sonet
Engine: ubl
Transmission: ubl
Wheelbase: cvt
Length: cvt
Width: cvt
Height: cvt
Weight: cvt
Categories: 2020s cars, All articles containing potentially dated statements, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles containing Korean-language text, Articles containing potentially dated statements from 2023
Summary: The Hyundai Venue (Korean: 현대 베뉴) is a subcompact crossover SUV manufactured by South Korean manufacturer Hyundai. The Venue debuted at the 2019 New York International Auto Show as Hyundai’s smallest global crossover, prior to the introduction of other smaller SUVs such as the Casper and Exter.
As of 2023, the Venue is positioned below the Kona or Creta, and above the Exter or Casper in Hyundai’s international crossover lineup. It shares its platform with the fifth-generation Accent.
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Brand: Hyundai Model: Venue
Price: $18,290 Mileage: 45,836 mi.
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3. **2025 Chevrolet Trax**The 2025 Chevrolet Trax arrives with a starting price of $21,495, having undergone a complete redesign just last year that genuinely transformed its presence. Gone are the awkward lines of its predecessor, replaced by a crossover that now boasts fresh, intentional looks. This automotive plastic surgery has worked wonders, making the Trax a much more appealing and cohesive package.
Beyond its improved aesthetics, the Trax carries forward into 2025 with up-to-date tech and a strong emphasis on safety. All models come standard with Chevy Safety Assist, a comprehensive suite of driver-assist technologies designed to enhance security on the road. Furthermore, wireless smartphone integration, supporting both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, is standard across the board, ensuring seamless connectivity for your devices.
The Trax is exclusively front-wheel drive (FWD), which is typical for many vehicles in this subcompact crossover segment. Powering the Trax is a 1.2-liter engine that, while not delivering exhilarating performance, moves the vehicle along without drama. It’s a perfectly capable powertrain for daily commutes and urban environments, prioritizing efficiency and smooth operation over raw power.
Think of the Trax as that friend who finally figured out their style, where suddenly everything clicks without trying too hard. Its combination of a contemporary design, standard advanced safety features, and effortless smartphone integration makes it a highly competitive offering. For those seeking a modern, stylish, and connected compact crossover that doesn’t break the bank, the 2025 Chevrolet Trax makes a strong case for itself as a comeback kid that truly delivers.
Car Model Information: 2022 Chevrolet Trax LT
Name: Chevrolet Trax
Manufacturer: General Motors
Aka: unbulleted list
Production: 2013–present
BodyStyle: SUV
Predecessor: unbulleted list
Successor: unbulleted list
Categories: 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, Articles with short description
Summary: The Chevrolet Trax is a compact crossover SUV manufactured by General Motors and marketed under the Chevrolet brand since 2013, currently in its second generation.
The first generation model was released globally in 2013 as the smallest, entry-level crossover SUV offering from the brand. Development and production were centered in South Korea by GM Korea. A restyled model was also produced as the Buick Encore in North America and as the Opel/Vauxhall Mokka in Europe.
In several markets, the vehicle was marketed as the Chevrolet Tracker, and as the Holden Trax in Australia and New Zealand. The Trax became available in Canada, Mexico, Germany, South Korea, Lebanon, United Arab Emirates, and Europe for the 2013 model year and was released in the United States for the 2015 model year.
In 2019, GM released the replacement of the Trax for China and Latin America, the Tracker. The first-generation Trax continued to be marketed in North America, South Korea, and several other markets until 2022, when it was replaced by the larger second-generation Trax due for the 2024 model year. The second-generation Trax is also marketed in China as the Chevrolet Seeker.
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Brand: Chevrolet Model: Trax
Price: $17,884 Mileage: 50,449 mi.
Read more about: Watch Out: 12 Compact Cars Prone to Major Engine Issues Before 80,000 Miles – A Consumer Guide
4. **2025 Kia Soul**With a starting price of $20,490, the 2025 Kia Soul stands out with its boxy, charming, and undeniably unusual design. This distinctive ride proves that utilitarian can indeed be beautiful, or at least brimming with personality. Its unique aesthetic choice is not merely for show; it’s a direct contributor to the Soul’s most compelling practical advantage: incredible interior space.
Despite its small footprint, the Kia Soul is remarkably space-efficient, maximizing every inch like a Tetris champion. This translates to an impressive cargo capacity of up to 62.1 cubic feet behind the first row, making it far more versatile for hauling gear than many of its competitors. Standard smartphone integration further enhances its appeal, ensuring you stay connected and entertained on the go.
The Soul also delivers a driving quality that punches above its weight class. While it might not be a performance vehicle, its handling is responsive and its ride comfortable, providing a satisfying experience for daily driving. It’s important to note, however, that the Soul is front-wheel drive only. This means that while it’s perfectly capable in most conditions, drivers in snowy climates might want to consider alternative wheel setups for optimal traction.
With its roomy cabin and personality-packed design, the Kia Soul is perfectly suited for city dwellers and individuals who need ample space but refuse to settle for a boring car. It offers a refreshing alternative to more conventional compacts, blending quirky style with exceptional practicality. For those who value character and clever packaging, the 2025 Kia Soul is a box office hit that truly stands out.
Car Model Information: 2023 Kia Soul LX
Name: Kia Soul
Caption: 2023 Kia Soul GT Line
Manufacturer: Kia
Production: 2008–2025
Class: Subcompact crossover SUV
BodyStyle: hatchback
Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel-drive
ModelYears: 2010–2025
Categories: 2010s cars, All articles with dead external links, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles containing Korean-language text, Articles with dead external links from December 2017
Summary: The Kia Soul is a subcompact crossover SUV manufactured and marketed by Kia since 2008. Often described and marketed as a crossover since its introduction, the Soul is a hatchback with a box proportion and tall roof, which are designed to maximize its interior space. Despite its SUV-like styling, the Soul was never available with all-wheel drive, instead it is exclusively a front-wheel drive vehicle. The Soul first appeared in 2006 in the form of a concept model displayed at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The production model made its debut at the Paris Motor Show in 2008. During its introduction, Kia stated that the Soul is aimed at the North American market, and targeted towards buyers in the 18 to 35-year old range. The second-generation model was introduced in 2013 for the 2014 model year, which featured a larger exterior and interior dimensions along with a reworked chassis, while keeping its boxy styling. The Soul is currently in its third generation, which was introduced in 2018 for the 2019 model year. Since 2014, Kia has also marketed a battery electric variant as the Soul EV. The name “Soul” comes from the homophone of Seoul, the city that hosts Kia’s headquarters.
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Brand: Kia Model: Soul
Price: $17,890 Mileage: 45,395 mi.
Read more about: Buyer’s Alert: 7 SUVs Prone to Major Breakdowns Before Hitting 80,000 Miles
5. **2025 Nissan Sentra**Positioned as a noticeable upgrade over its less-expensive sibling, the Versa, the 2025 Nissan Sentra steps into the compact sedan arena with a starting price of $21,590. It presents itself as a larger, more comfortable, and more capable option, appealing to buyers who need a bit more substance and refinement than a subcompact can offer. The Sentra manages to maintain a keen focus on value while providing a more premium feel.
One of the Sentra’s standout features is its standard Zero Gravity seats, designed to provide enhanced comfort, particularly on longer journeys. This commitment to passenger well-being makes it a solid choice for road trippers or long-distance commuters who prioritize comfort during extended periods behind the wheel. The car also achieves a respectable 40 mpg on the highway, underscoring its efficiency for those racking up miles.
From an aesthetic perspective, the Sentra boasts styling that photographs well, giving it an attractive and contemporary appearance that belies its budget-friendly price point. However, when it comes to the driving experience, some evaluations suggest that the handling can feel somewhat disconnected, likened to driving with winter gloves. While it gets the job done reliably, it might not inspire much joy for enthusiasts.
Furthermore, while the interior is generally comfortable for front occupants, rear passengers might find the space a bit cramped on longer trips, an important consideration for those who frequently transport multiple adults. Overall, the 2025 Nissan Sentra provides reliable transportation that capably handles daily duties and highway cruising, especially for buyers prioritizing comfort and fuel economy over exhilarating dynamics or expansive rear passenger room. It is a practical choice for getting the job done without excessive fanfare.
With the first five contenders thoroughly dissected, our journey into America’s cheapest new cars for 2025 continues, proving that budget-friendly doesn’t mean boring or basic. The remaining models in our top 10 offer diverse options, from sharp-looking sedans to versatile subcompact SUVs, each bringing its own unique blend of features, value, and practicality to the table. We’re still operating under that sweet $25,000 ceiling, discovering vehicles that truly deliver a solid driving experience and essential technology without demanding a premium price tag. Let’s dive into the next wave of affordable automotive excellence.
Car Model Information: 2024 Nissan Sentra S
Name: Nissan Sentra
Caption: 2021 Nissan Sentra SR (B18; Canada)
Manufacturer: Nissan
Aka: Nissan Sunny
Production: 1982–present
Class: Subcompact car
Predecessor: Nissan Sunny#B310
Categories: 1990s cars, 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All Wikipedia articles written in American English
Summary: The Nissan Sentra is a series of automobiles manufactured by the Japanese automaker Nissan since 1982. Since 1999, the Sentra has been categorized as a compact car, while previously it occupied the subcompact class. Until 2006, Sentra was a rebadged export version of the Japanese Nissan Sunny, but since the 2013 model year, Sentra is a rebadged export version of the Sylphy. The Sentra nameplate is not used in Japan. Many other countries in Latin America sell their versions of the Sunny as the Sentra. In Mexico, the first three generations of the Sentra were known as the Nissan Tsuru (Japanese for crane), and the B13 model was sold under that name until 2017, alongside the updated models badged as Sentra.
In North America, the Sentra currently serves as Nissan’s compact car, despite being rated as a mid-size car by the EPA due to its interior volume since the 2007 model year. While previous Sentras were subcompacts, the Sentra has grown over the years, with the Nissan Versa having replaced the Sentra in the entry-level area.
The Sentra name was created for Nissan by Ira Bachrach of NameLab, and Bachrach describes the origin as “Nissan wanted consumers to understand that it was quite safe even though it was small. The word Sentra sounds like central as well as sentry, which evokes images of safety.”
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Brand: Nissan Model: Sentra
Price: $18,999 Mileage: 9,063 mi.
Read more about: Beyond the Showroom: 15 Used Vehicles That Defy Expectations and Outlast Most New Models on the Road
6. **2025 Kia K4**The 2025 Kia K4 arrives on the scene as an all-new model, replacing the Forte and immediately making a statement with its dramatic styling. Starting at a competitive $23,165, the K4 completely redefines what a bargain-priced compact car can look like, exuding an upmarket desirability that belies its accessible cost. This isn’t just a facelift; it’s a full-blown glow-up that ensures this Kia turns heads, making its cheaper car status look decidedly expensive.
Beyond its striking exterior, the K4 impresses with a wealth of fresh technology and an exceptionally well-packaged interior. Despite its bargain price, wireless smartphone integration comes standard across all models, ensuring seamless connectivity for drivers. For those who crave an even more modern cockpit, upper trims take the “wow factor” up a notch with the option of dual 12.3-inch displays, a feature often reserved for much pricier vehicles.
Interior space is another significant win for the K4, offering room that rivals many competitors in higher price brackets. This thoughtful design means passengers won’t feel cramped, enhancing comfort for daily commutes or longer journeys. While its proven powertrain keeps things reliable and perfectly capable for everyday driving, it’s worth noting that its performance doesn’t quite match the flashiness of its exterior aesthetics, prioritizing efficiency and smooth operation over exhilarating speed.
However, for buyers who appreciate a stylish, modern vehicle that offers more room than a Toyota Corolla without requiring the budget of a Honda Civic, the K4 is an undeniable contender. Its combination of sharp looks, generous interior accommodations, and reliable underpinnings creates a compelling package. Plus, with rumors of a potential hatchback version on the horizon, this new Kia could become an even more versatile and attractive option for style-conscious shoppers seeking maximum value.
Car Model Information: 2025 Kia K4 EX
Name: Kia K4
Manufacturer: Kia
ModelCode: CL4
Production: 2024–present
ModelYears: 2025–present (North America)
Assembly: unbulleted list
Class: Compact car
Engine: Petrol engine,Hyundai Smartstream engine#G3LE,Hyundai Smartstream engine#G4FM,Hyundai Smartstream engine#G4FP,Hyundai Smartstream engine#G4NS
Transmission: Manual transmission,Automatic transmission,8-speed automatic,Dual-clutch transmission,Continuously variable transmission
Related: Hyundai Elantra#CN7
BodyStyle: Sedan (automobile)
Platform: Hyundai-Kia K3 platform
Predecessor: ubl
Wheelbase: 2720 mm
Abbr: on
Length: ubl
Width: 1850 mm
Height: 1420 mm
Weight: convert
Caption: 2025 Kia K4 LX Sedan (Canada)
Drivetrain: Mild hybrid
Categories: All Wikipedia articles written in British English, Articles with short description, CS1 Spanish-language sources (es), Cars introduced in 2024, Cars of Mexico
Summary: The Kia K4 is a compact car manufactured by South Korean automaker Kia. It was introduced in March 2024 as a replacement for the Forte/K3/Cerato, while the K3 nameplate was transferred to a subcompact car.
The car was first introduced on 21 March 2024, and was fully introduced on 27 March 2024, at the 2024 New York International Auto Show. It is available as a 4-door sedan and a 5-door hatchback.
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Brand: Kia Model: K4
Price: $23,990 Mileage: 3,894 mi.
Read more about: Unveiling the Safest Luxury Sedans of 2025: A Deep Dive into 13 Models with Standard Advanced Safety Features
7. **2025 Hyundai Elantra**The 2025 Hyundai Elantra, with a starting price of $23,220, continues to defy expectations for an entry-level compact sedan. It rises significantly above its bargain pricing through a commitment to a spacious interior and a comprehensive suite of generous standard safety features. This blend of comfort and protection is a testament to Hyundai’s strategy of delivering substantial value, ensuring buyers get much more than they pay for.
Inside, the Elantra boasts an impressive amount of technology, making it a highly connected option for modern drivers. Standard wireless smartphone integration in the base model ensures that you can effortlessly access your apps, navigation, and music without fumbling with cables. This thoughtful inclusion elevates the daily driving experience, reflecting a user-centric design philosophy that focuses on convenience and contemporary needs.
Safety is a paramount concern for many buyers, and the 2025 Elantra excels here, having earned prestigious IIHS Top Safety Pick+ honors. This recognition underscores its robust crashworthiness and effective preventative safety systems, providing invaluable peace of mind for both drivers and passengers. When considering an affordable vehicle, knowing it protects its occupants so effectively is a significant advantage.
From a visual standpoint, the Elantra’s bold styling truly sets it apart from the crowd, making even some of its more established rivals, like the Civic, appear conservative. This distinctive aesthetic is paired with excellent fuel efficiency, achieving an impressive 32/41 mpg, which beats many competitors in its class and contributes to lower running costs. The interior space, surprisingly generous for its footprint, shares much of its mechanical DNA with the equally practical Kia K4, demonstrating smart engineering.
Ultimately, for consumers who place a high priority on crash test scores and a sense of security, the Elantra delivers both without forcing them to stretch their budget. It’s a vehicle that doesn’t just meet expectations for its price point; it consistently exceeds them, offering a compelling package of safety, style, and efficiency for the discerning, value-oriented shopper.
Car Model Information: 2023 Hyundai ELANTRA SEL
Name: Hyundai Elantra/Avante
Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor Company
Aka: Hyundai Avante,Hyundai Lantra (1990–2000),Hyundai i30 Sedan (2020–present)
Production: 1990–present
Class: Compact car
Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout
Predecessor: Hyundai Stellar
Categories: 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All Wikipedia articles written in British English, All articles with bare URLs for citations
Summary: The Hyundai Elantra, also known as the Hyundai Avante, is a compact car produced by the South Korean manufacturer Hyundai since 1990. The Elantra was initially marketed as the Lantra in Australia and some European markets. In Australia, this was due to the similarly named Mitsubishi Magna Elante model; in Europe because of the Lotus Elan. The home market name Avante used from the second generation is not used in most export markets due to its similarity with Audi’s “Avant” designation, used for their station wagon models. The name was standardized as “Elantra” worldwide in 2001 (except in South Korea, Singapore and Russia).
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Brand: Hyundai Model: Elantra
Price: $20,347 Mileage: 27,335 mi.
Read more about: Redefining Speed and Savings: 10 Sports Cars That Master 30 MPG Highway
8. **2025 Nissan Kicks**The 2025 Nissan Kicks, priced from $23,220, injects a much-needed dose of youthful, futuristic style and personality into the subcompact SUV segment. Often, vehicles in this category can feel a bit understated, but the Kicks manages to cultivate a dash of up-market desirability that makes it stand out. Its aesthetic appeal makes it a strong contender for those who want their budget SUV to have a bit of flair and character.
This latest iteration of Nissan’s cheapest SUV has undergone a complete makeover, a transformation that has successfully elevated it from being merely forgettable to genuinely competitive. The redesigned Kicks not only looks sharper but also offers practical improvements, including more cabin room and improved power. These enhancements make it a more comfortable and capable daily driver, especially for navigating urban environments and handling light highway cruising.
Nissan has also prioritized safety and convenience, equipping the Kicks with a comprehensive suite of driver-assist technologies. Standard Nissan Safety Shield 360 provides crucial aids like automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning, enhancing security on every journey. For those seeking even more advanced assistance, the option to upgrade to the ProPilot Assist hands-free driving system further underscores its modern appeal and commitment to driver support.
Adding another layer of versatility for 2025, the Nissan Kicks is now available with all-wheel drive. This feature significantly enhances its capability, particularly for drivers in regions that experience inclement weather or those who occasionally venture onto less-than-perfect roads. While it’s true that, like most small SUVs, the Kicks cannot fully match the sheer cargo space or fuel efficiency of dedicated hatchbacks, it skillfully delivers the elevated seating position that many buyers crave, all without the typically higher price tag associated with larger SUVs. It truly carves out a niche for itself as a stylish and capable urban companion.
Car Model Information: 2024 Nissan Kicks SV
Name: Nissan Kicks
Caption: Second-generation Kicks SV (P16)
Manufacturer: Nissan
Production: 2016–present
Class: Subcompact crossover SUV
BodyStyle: Sport utility vehicle
Predecessor: unbulleted list
ModelYears: 2018–present (North America)
Categories: 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, Articles containing Japanese-language text, Articles with short description, CS1 Brazilian Portuguese-language sources (pt-br)
Summary: The Nissan Kicks is a subcompact crossover SUV produced by Nissan since 2016. The crossover was initially introduced as a concept car under the same name and was premiered at the 2014 São Paulo International Motor Show. Nissan claimed the concept is inspired by the streets of Brazil. The first-generation, V platform-based Kicks debuted in São Paulo, Brazil in mid-2016 with the P15 chassis code. The car was designed collaboratively by Nissan’s design headquarters in Atsugi, Japan, Nissan Design America (NDA) in San Diego, California, and Nissan Design America Rio de Janeiro. The first-generation Kicks was then gradually rolled out across Latin America, then it entered the United States and Canada in 2018 to replace the Juke as the subcompact crossover offering in both countries. The B0 platform-based Kicks was introduced in India in January 2019 with the D15 chassis code. The company stated the vehicle is built on the platform to reduce production costs. It is slightly larger than the V platform-based Kicks, and retained the same wheelbase as the first-generation Dacia Duster and the B0 platform-based Renault Captur. The D15 Kicks ceased production in 2023. The second-generation Kicks was introduced for the North American market in March 2024.
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Brand: Nissan Model: Kicks
Price: $18,490 Mileage: 46,586 mi.
Read more about: Miles of Misery: 14 Vehicles Drivers Can’t Wait to Ditch
9. **2025 Volkswagen Jetta**The 2025 Volkswagen Jetta arrives with a refreshed perspective, boasting a redesigned look both inside and out, accompanied by an increase in standard safety equipment and a slightly lower base price compared to its predecessor. Starting at $23,220, it presents itself as an attractive and surprisingly roomy car, upholding Volkswagen’s reputation for understated elegance and practical engineering in the compact sedan segment.
Inside the cabin, the updated interior materials contribute to an improved sense of quality, making the Jetta feel more refined than its price point suggests. Drivers will appreciate the standard smartphone integration, ensuring their digital lives seamlessly connect with their vehicle. Furthermore, an 8-inch digital instrument display comes standard, providing a modern and clear presentation of vital driving information, alongside VW’s comprehensive IQ.Drive driver-assist suite, all included in the base model.
One of the Jetta’s most compelling attributes is its impressive fuel efficiency, capable of achieving up to 40 mpg on the highway. This makes it a particularly intelligent choice for serious commuters who spend a significant amount of time racking up miles, directly translating to substantial savings at the pump. The spacious rear seats are another highlight, often appreciated by taller passengers who might find themselves cramped in competing models, making it suitable for carpooling or family use.
However, it’s important to acknowledge that while the Jetta excels in practicality and efficiency, its driving dynamics tend to lag behind some of its sportier competitors. It may not offer the most exhilarating ride for enthusiasts, but it more than compensates with its overall comfort and thoughtful feature set. At its price point, the Jetta might struggle against some compact sedans in terms of sheer performance excitement, but its combination of highway fuel economy, roomy interior, and standard advanced tech makes it an incredibly sensible and well-rounded option for the pragmatic driver.
Car Model Information: 2019 Volkswagen Jetta 1.4T S
Name: Volkswagen Jetta
Production: 1979–present
Class: Compact car
Sp: uk
Categories: 1980s cars, 1990s cars, 2000s cars, 2010s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles
Summary: The Volkswagen Jetta () is a compact car/small family car manufactured and marketed by Volkswagen since 1979. Positioned to fill a sedan niche slightly above the firm’s Golf hatchback, it has been marketed over seven generations, variously as the Atlantic, Vento, Bora, City Jetta, Jetta City, GLI, Jetta, Clasico, and Sagitar (in China).
The Jetta has been offered in two- and four-door saloon / sedan and sometimes as five-door wagon / estate versions. Since the original version in 1980, the car has grown in size and power with each generation. By mid-2011, almost 10 million Jettas have been produced and sold all over the world. As of April 2014, Volkswagen marketed over 14 million, becoming its top selling model.
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Brand: Volkswagen Model: Jetta
Price: $15,991 Mileage: 40,748 mi.
Read more about: 12 New Cars Named ‘Best Buys’ for 2025: An Expert Guide for Savvy Shoppers
10. **2025 Toyota Corolla**Rounding out our list of America’s cheapest new cars for 2025 is the venerable Toyota Corolla, starting at $23,460. This model proudly continues Toyota’s long-standing tradition of providing reliable, affordable transportation that has, for decades, built the brand’s formidable reputation. The 2025 Corolla knows its assignment perfectly and executes it flawlessly, delivering exactly what budget-conscious buyers expect and more.
Value is paramount with the Corolla, and it doesn’t disappoint. You get outstanding fuel efficiency, with impressive ratings of 31/40 mpg, making it a truly economical choice for daily driving. More importantly, the Corolla comes with legendary Toyota reliability, a quality that assures owners their car will start every morning without drama, consistently providing dependable point-A-to-point-B transportation for years to come.
In terms of technology and safety, the Corolla is remarkably well-equipped. Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, an advanced suite of driver-assist features, is included as standard, bolstering confidence on the road. An intuitive 8-inch touchscreen and wireless smartphone integration are also standard, ensuring connectivity and entertainment are readily available without extra cost. Toyota’s recent recognition as a Consumer Reports Top Pick further highlights its safety improvements and overall consumer satisfaction.
While the non-GR models of the Corolla might not quicken your pulse with exhilarating performance, that’s not their mission. Instead, they prioritize comfortable front seats and predictable operation, making daily life easier and stress-free. Sometimes, the most predictable choice is, in fact, the smartest choice, especially when your primary goal is to own an affordable, unfailingly reliable vehicle that serves its purpose faithfully without any unnecessary fanfare.
Car Model Information: 2023 Toyota Corolla LE
Name: Toyota Corolla
Caption: Twelfth generation model (2020, hatchback)
Manufacturer: Toyota
Aka: unbulleted list
Production: November 1966 – present
Class: unbulleted list
Predecessor: Toyota Publica
Categories: 1970s cars, 1980s cars, 1990s cars, 2000s cars, 2010s cars
Summary: The Toyota Corolla is a series of compact cars (formerly subcompact) manufactured and marketed globally by the Japanese automaker Toyota Motor Corporation. Introduced in 1966, the Corolla was the best-selling car worldwide by 1974 and was one of the best-selling cars in the world until 1997, when it surpassed the Volkswagen Beetle as the world’s best-selling automobile of all time. Toyota reached the milestone of 50 million Corollas sold over twelve generations in 2021. The name Corolla is part of Toyota’s naming tradition of using names derived from the Toyota Crown for sedans, with “corolla” Latin for “small crown”. The Corolla has always been exclusive in Japan to Toyota Corolla Store locations, and manufactured in Japan with a twin, called the Toyota Sprinter until 2000. From 2006 to 2018 in Japan and much of the world, and from 2018 to 2020 in Taiwan, the hatchback companion had been called the Toyota Auris. Early models were mostly rear-wheel drive, while later models have been front-wheel drive. Four-wheel drive versions have also been produced, and it has undergone several major redesigns. The Corolla’s traditional competitors have been the Nissan Sunny, introduced the same year as the Corolla in Japan and the later Nissan Sentra, Subaru Leone, Honda Civic and Mitsubishi Lancer. The Corolla’s chassis designation code is “E”, as described in Toyota’s chassis and engine codes.
Get more information about: Toyota Corolla
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Brand: Toyota Model: Corolla
Price: $19,990 Mileage: 44,353 mi.
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Our deep dive into America’s cheapest new cars for 2025 clearly demonstrates that the automotive landscape is brimming with value. From the ultra-affordable Nissan Versa to the perennially reliable Toyota Corolla, each vehicle on this list proves that a tight budget doesn’t necessitate a compromise on safety, technology, or fundamental driving satisfaction. These aren’t just cars; they are meticulously crafted solutions for the modern consumer, offering an impressive array of features and efficiencies under that crucial $25,000 threshold. It’s an exciting time to be a budget-conscious car buyer, where genuine value and quality are more accessible than ever before.
