Drive New Affordable Cars for Under Half the BMW 3 Series Price

The average new car sold costs a whopping $47,401 as of January 2024, according to Kelley Blue Book. In other words, the average new car sold costs about the same as a 2024 Ford Mustang GT. Unfortunately, this is more like a pipedream for the average car buyer. But, that doesn’t mean you can’t drive a great car on a budget.

There are heaps of cheap used sports cars that sell for less than $10,000, but then again, practicality and reliability are two areas of concern you can’t overlook, alas. That said, you can buy some near-bullet-proof used cars in 2024 too, but these cars tend to sell for an arm and a leg.

All things considered, hope isn’t lost, and there is a light at the end of the tunnel. Here are the cheapest new cars on sale in 2024 that provide you with excellent value for money, and won’t cost you a dime over $30,000.

In order to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from official manufacturer websites and other authoritative sources, such as Edmunds, Consumer Reports, and fueleconomy.gov. The models below have been ranked based on their starting MSRP, from lowest to highest.

10 2024 Nissan Versa

MSRP: $16,390

The Nissan Versa is the cheapest new car on sale in America with a price of only $16,390. Offered in three distinct trim levels, S, SV, and SR, all Versas host a different set of standard features. And to make things better, it’s not only the cheapest, but it’s also the most fuel-efficient.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Nissan)

Standard safety features on all Nissan Versa models are automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and high beam assist, with other features like blind-spot monitoring and cross-traffic alert remaining standard on the SV and SR trim levels. On the inside, Versas comes standard with cruise control, a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment screen, a four-speaker audio system, as well as three USB ports and keyless entry.

Pros

• Combined EPA-estimated rating of 35 MPG
• Up to 15.0 cubic feet of cargo space with seats up
• Comes with a spare tire

Cons

• Cramped interior space
• Takes 17.6 seconds to reach 80 mph (MotorTrend)
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are optional

9 2024 Hyundai Elantra

MSRP: $21,625

First introduced in the ’90s as a run-of-the-mill commuter car, the Hyundai Elantra received its growth spurt, and is more appealing than ever. With a base MSRP just north of $20,000 and offered in four different trim levels, as well as a high-performance Elantra N version, this compact Hyundai sedan has something for everyone.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Hyundai)

The SE, SEL, and Limited Elantra models all pack a naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine mated to a CVT, whereas the N-Line Elantra receives a turbo-four and a seven-speed DCT. Although the N-Line costs a tad more, and looks more aggressive, even the base model SE comes with a wide array of standard safety features including forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and high-beam assist.

Pros

• Combined EPA-estimated rating of 36 MPG
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard
• 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster standard on SE and higher trims

Cons

• N-Line costs 28,465
• No manual transmission

8 2024 Subaru Impreza

MSRP: $22,995

The Subaru Impreza has been a go-to choice for adventure-seekers across the world, especially considering its practicality. The newest Impreza is no exception, with all models coming standard with all-wheel-drive, as well as a plethora of standard safety features such as adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking and steering, and lane-keep assist.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Subaru)

Although the Impreza comes in three different trim levels, only two engines are available – both being naturally aspirated four-cylinder boxer engines. Unfortunately, the 2024 Subaru Impreza isn’t offered as an STI, and could benefit from some more power or a turbocharger.

Pros

• Combined EPA-estimated rating of 30 MPG
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard on all models
• 56 cubic feet of cargo space with rear seats lowered

Cons

• Only up to 182 horsepower
• No manual transmission available

7 2024 Kia K5

MSRP: $25,590

Just like Hyundai, Kia is showing off its true potential with exceptional electric cars like the EV6 GT, but also with gasoline-fed sedans like the Kia K5. The 2024 Kia K5 comes in four different trim levels, with the LXS, GT-Line, and EX sharing the same turbo 1.6-liter four-banger, and the GT trim level sporting a mighty 290-horsepower turbocharged four-pot.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Kia)

Apart from its stunning exterior design, the Kia K5 also has a well-built interior that comes with a handful of standard features. Standard safety features on the base model LXS Kia K5 include automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, high-beam assist, and a rearview camera. All of this for a smidgen over $25,000.

Pros

• Combined EPA-estimated rating of 30 MPG
• 10-year/100,000-mile warranty
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard on all models

Cons

• 37.8 inches of rear headroom
• Kia K5 GT costs $31,990

6 2024 Hyundai Sonata

MSRP: $27,500

Offered in four different trims and three different engines, the 2024 Hyundai Sonata comes with either a naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine, a hybrid four-banger, or a turbocharged inline-four. The base model SEL Sonata can also be had either as a front-wheel-drive or an all-wheel-drive sedan.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Hyundai)

The Sonata sports a handsome design that makes you believe it costs far more than $27,500 thanks to its standard LED headlights and taillights, and 17-inch alloy wheels. Standard safety features on the 2024 Hyundai Sonata include automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, high-beam assist, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, a scarce feature on a vehicle that costs less than $30,000.

Pros

• Heated front seats as standard
• Bluelink Connected Car System app that allows for remote control
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard on all models

Cons

• N-Line costs $34,950
• 48/100 Consumer Reports Predicted Reliability

5 2024 Toyota Prius

MSRP: $27,650

Back in the day, the Toyota Prius was nothing but a pitifully slow and uninspired hybrid vehicle meant to get you from point A to B. However, the latest generation Toyota Prius, introduced in 2023, changed the game completely. With a completely redesigned exterior, and more power than ever before, the Prius doesn’t only make sense on paper, but people want to drive a Prius.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Toyota)

All Prius models come with a hybrid four-cylinder engine with less than 200 horsepower, whereas the more expensive plug-in hybrid version, the Toyota Prius Prime, has 220 horsepower on tap. Standard safety features on the new Prius are also plentiful, including automated emergency braking, automatic high beams, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist.

Pros

• Combined EPA-estimated rating of up to 57 MPG
• Revolutionized the Prius name
• Six USB-C ports in the interior

Cons

• Cramped rear seating area
• Only the Prius Limited trim level receives wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard
• Only 20.3 cubic feet of cargo space

4 2024 Honda Accord

MSRP: $27,895

Instead of settling for a 2024 Toyota Camry, why not consider the new Honda Accord? As per its tradition, the 2024 Honda Accord is a mid-size sedan that has given you incredible value for money since its new generation was introduced last year. Offered in six trim levels, two being gas-powered and the other four hybrids, the Accord provides drivers with exactly what they need.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Honda)

A key stand-out feature that gives the Accord a competitive advantage over other mid-size sedans is that all Accords have Honda Sensing as standard. Honda Sensing is an umbrella term that Honda uses to refer to its safety technology. In other words, all Honda Accord models come with automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, traffic sign recognition, and adaptive cruise control.

Pros

• Combined EPA-estimated rating of 32 MPG for non-hybrid
• Combined EPA-estimated rating of up to 48 MPG for hybrid
• Rearview camera as standard

Cons

• No all-wheel-drive option
• No manual transmission
• Hybrid models start at $32,895

3 2024 Mazda MX-5 Miata

MSRP: $28,985

As of writing this article, the Mazda MX-5 Miata is the most affordable rear-wheel-drive sports car to feature a manual in 2024. With a rev-happy naturally aspirated four-cylinder nesting underneath its hood, mated to either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission, as well as a manual folding rooftop, the MX-5 keeps the traditional sports car recipe alive.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Mazda)

Although the 2024 Mazda MX-5 Miata might not be as practical as other cars on this list with its snug cabin and two seats, it’s one of the most desirable cars on sale right now because it costs less than $30,000. On top of that, Miatas are known to be one of the most reliable sports cars in existence.

Pros

• Combined EPA-estimated rating of 30 MPG
• Never-ending aftermarket support
• 73/100 Consumer Reports Predicted Reliability

Cons

• 4.6 cubic feet of cargo space
• 43.1 inches of legroom

2 2024 ​​​​Honda Civic Si

MSRP: $29,100

The Honda Civic Si is one of the best sporty daily drivers on the market. Although it’s not as fast as the Civic Type R, the Si still packs a decent 200 horsepower thanks to its 1.5-liter turbo-four hiding underneath its hood. The Honda Civic Si is only offered with a six-speed manual transmission with automatic rev-matching, making it easy for new drivers to drive a stick too.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Honda)

And for less than $30,000, the Civic Si comes filled to the brim with innovative technology and safety features that are usually optional extras. All Civic Si models come standard with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a Bose premium sound system, and Honda Sensing, just like the Accord.

Pros

• Combined EPA-estimated rating of 31 MPG
• Helical limited-slip differential
• 14.4 cubic feet of cargo space with seats up

Cons

• No heated seats on offer
• Lacks automatic transmission

1 2024 Toyota GR86

MSRP: $29,300

The Toyota GR86 is one of the most dependable sports cars that costs less than the average new car. On top of that, the GR68 is the cheapest way to get into a hardtop rear-wheel-drive sports car, considering its blood-brother, the Subaru BRZ, costs a tad more.

Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Toyota

Paying tribute to the previous GT86, the 2024 Toyota GR86 improves over its predecessor in more ways than one. An eight-inch touchscreen infotainment display that supports Apple CarPlay Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and a backup camera are some of the most noteworthy features. And of course, the new Toyota GR86 also benefits from more power too, despite its sub-$30,000 MSRP.

Pros

• Torsen limited-slip differential
• 2,833-pound curb weight
• Blind-spot monitoring

Cons

• 29.9 inches of rear legroom
• 45.1 inches of front legroom
• Interior quality