Owning and maintaining a car can quickly become a costly affair. By 2025, the average price for a new vehicle is expected to approach $50,000, making smart purchasing decisions more important than ever. So, how can drivers maximize value when buying a car without breaking the bank? One of the best strategies is choosing a vehicle that’s inexpensive to drive. Cars with excellent fuel efficiency and strong reliability records can save owners significant money over time—not just at the gas pump, but also at the repair shop.
An automotive research company recently analyzed vehicles based on average annual mileage and new car prices to identify the most affordable cars to drive. The results highlight some surprising contenders for budget-conscious buyers. Here are the standout models:
- Mitsubishi Mirage (average new price: $18,281)
- Kia Rio (average new price: $18,553)
- Chevrolet Spark (average new price: $16,982)
- Nissan Versa (average new price: $19,250)
- Mitsubishi Mirage G4 (average new price: $19,355)
- Kia Soul (average new price: $22,197)
- Toyota Corolla (average new price: $23,349)
- Chevrolet Malibu (average new price: $28,637)
- Hyundai Accent (average new price: $18,720)
- Nissan Sentra (average new price: $23,045)
While many of these affordable rides come from well-known Japanese brands like Nissan, Toyota, and Mitsubishi, the list isn’t dominated by Japan alone. South Korean and American manufacturers, such as Kia and Chevrolet, also make an appearance. A common thread connecting these models is their size: subcompact cars, sedans, or small SUVs dominate the lineup. This underscores how vehicle size and fuel efficiency directly impact ownership costs.
The study’s methodology included analyzing odometer data from over one million three-year-old cars. This gave a realistic picture of actual vehicle usage and maintenance costs, rather than relying solely on sticker prices. New car price certainly influences the rankings, but it’s not the only
