Two things are killing cheap cars in America: price hikes and inflation. Automakers will argue they’re related, and to an extent they are. Stagnant wages aren’t able to keep up, and the sub-$25K segment has shrunk precipitously in recent years as the auto market has become increasingly expensive. Currently, there are just seven holdouts.
1. Hyundai Venue: $22,150
Hyundai
Hyundai
America’s cheapest car is the Hyundai Venue, starting at just over $22k with destination charges. You get just the essentials here, like basic, traditional controls, phone projection, and not much else. There’s something to be said for that simplicity, and the Venue’s ease of access, too. However, the 1.8-liter isn’t what you’d call refined, and even for a compact SUV, the Venue does feel a little too small.
2. Chevrolet Trax: $23,495
Chevrolet
Chevrolet
This is as cheap as Chevrolets get these days. The small crossover is nicely appointed, though, and its interior feels bigger than you’d expect. You can also say the same of the trunk, making the Trax one of the most practical cars under $25,000. More than that, there’s a good run of standard driving aids. Like most cars on this list, acceleration isn’t what you’d call rapid, and the driving experience leaves out fun in favor of frugality.
3. Kia K4: $23,535
The Kia K4 can be had as a stylish sedan or a hatchback, and typical for Kias these days, comes with a load of standard features and an excellent warranty. More than that, Kia also offers a handful of fun colors, something uncommon among economy-focused sedans, hatches, and SUVs. The K4 offers some peppier engines, but not under $25,000. Instead, look to the excellent tech for a consolation prize.
4. Nissan Sentra: $23,845
Nissan
Nissan
The Sentra lives on with a new look and a new interior. The Sentra takes a huge step forward, which features loads of standard tech, a new screen, and updated materials that feel much nicer. However, the Sentra also suffers from poor fuel economy and a firm ride.
5. Hyundai Elantra: $23,870
Hyundai
Hyundai
There’s more typical Hyundai in the Elantra. There’s a massive 10-year/100,000-mile warranty, tons of standard features, and very reasonable pricing. We like those items the most, but a measly base engine and a slightly noisy cabin at speed are drawbacks you’ll have to put up with.
6. Nissan Kicks: $24,275
Nissan
Nissan
The Kicks represents yet another Nissan glow-up. From econobox disaster to an affordable, stylish SUV, the Kicks brags an affordable price point and some seriously impressive tech for its price point. It doesn’t return the greatest fuel economy, though, and the SR trim, like the Sentra, has a ride we’d call over-firm.
7. Toyota Corolla: $24,285
Toyota
Toyota
The Corolla is a bellwether economy car. In 2026, the Corolla’s biggest problem is its rivals. Most cars here boast more space than the small sedan, but the Corolla does make up for it with much better fuel economy, something most cars on this list suffer from. We’re also big fans of the simplistic controls and stylish looks.
About the author
Chase Bierenkoven
Senior Editor, Autoblog