Last Updated 2 years ago
We all know that the cost of living is constantly rising, salary increases are not keeping up with inflation, and holiday expenses are just around the corner.
For those conscious about budget and looking to buy a car, knowing what affordable vehicles will be available in the market next year is more important than ever.
Fortunately, the automotive industry is constantly evolving using new technology, with new models hitting the market at ultra-competitive prices.
Credit: Negative Space
If you are willing to pay a premium for a vehicle that will help you save gas in the long run, a hybrid or an electric vehicle is a great option. However, if you are on the hunt for a budget-friendly car in 2024, today is your lucky day.
In this article, we will explore some of the cheapest cars available in the U.S. market in 2024 offering a nice mix of efficiency, reliability, and comfort.
6# Volkswagen Jetta
The 2024 Volkswagen Jetta price starts at an affordable $21,435. This German sedan is an absolute delight to drive. From its sleek design to its smooth performance, this car exudes style and sophistication offering great value for your money. It is well known that the Jetta has spacious interiors providing an exceptional ride for both driver and passengers.
With impressive fuel efficiency provided by its 1.5-liter turbocharged engine, the Volkswagen Jetta offers 29 city and 42 highway mpg. This is a fantastic choice for those seeking an affordable compact sedan.
Credit: Volkswagen
5# Chevrolet Trax
Let’s face it, when reading a list of the most affordable cars in the market, all readers might expect to see a list of compact sedans. Surprisingly, Chevrolet is offering next year an SUV at a bargain price.
The 2024 Chevrolet Trax offers a perfect blend of style, comfort, and affordability. Its starting price as shown on the Chevrolet website is $20,400.
The spacious interior provides ample legroom for passengers, ensuring a comfortable journey for everyday use. Its impressive fuel efficiency makes it an economical choice for daily commuting with an impressive 30 mpg range.
Credit: Chevrolet
4# Hyundai Venue
Yes, you’re reading it right! There is another SUV on the list. The 2024 Hyundai Venue is the second SUV that made it to this lineup due to its affordable price starting at $19,800 on its most economical version, the SE.
The Venue’s compact size and stylish design make it a perfect option for maneuvering through crowded city streets. Its fuel efficiency ensures you will save money on the pump providing 29 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highways.
If this is not attractive enough, for only $2,000 extra, Hyundai is offering its SEL version that includes the same efficiency and horsepower as the SE but also includes the 17-inch alloy wheels, push-button start, and powered sunroof to perfectly enjoy those sunny summer days.
Credit: Hyundai
3# Kia Rio
The 2024 Kia Rio is another option that you can get for a modest price. At an almost unbeatable price of $16,750, Rio provides an impressive fuel efficiency with 41 mpg in highways making it the third most efficient car in this list only under the VW Jetta and the Mitsubishi Mirage.
This compact sedan offers an 8-inch touch screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, including the rear camera display that helps you park in those narrow spaces in the city.
The great price, its superior fuel efficiency, the comfortable interiors, and the tech features make driving a Rio a pleasing experience.
Credit: Kia
2# Mitsubishi Mirage
Why buy a Kia when you can get a Mitsubishi? The 2024 Mitsubishi Mirage is starting at $16,695, it offers exceptional value for your money. This is because as stated by Mitsubishi, the Mirage is a class leader in fuel economy offering 43 mpg on highways, and they are not mistaken, this car has the best fuel efficiency in this category!
The 2024 Mitsubishi Mirage achieves its fuel efficiency thanks to its 3-cylinder 1.2 DOHC engine that offers its users a smooth ride at a modest cost.
Whether you are a city dweller or a budget-conscious buyer, this car will surely exceed your expectations. The Japanese automaker offers in this model not only great performance but style for those willing to pay a little extra. The BE version starts at $17,845 and includes 15-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, and rain-sensing wipers. Great features in a car for a competitive price.
Credit: Mitsubishi
1# Nissan Versa
If you make it to this point looking for something even cheaper, this next car is right up your alley.
Nissan is well known for the reliability and durability of its cars and the 2024 Nissan Versa is an example of this statement. However, what definitively stands out is its price, which makes the Versa one of the most affordable cars in the market.
Starting at $16,130, on its manual transmission version, it provides an excellent value for budget-conscious buyers. Nonetheless, if you are not a fan of stick shift, you can get the automatic version starting at $17,800. The Japanese automaker offers in this vehicle a 32 mpg in the city and 40 mpg in highways. The comfortable cabin and the Apple Car system make the Versa an ideal choice for daily commuting.
Credit: Nissan
Finding an affordable car in the U.S. doesn’t need to mean sacrificing quality or efficiency.
Whether you are a first-time car buyer, a student, or simply looking for a car that won’t break the piggy bank, these options offer good fuel efficiency and tech features at the lowest prices in 2024.
I am impressed with this lineup. The automakers are now offering great options in 2024 for less than $22,000, and with these prices, we can expect to see more SUVs at the pump next year