10 Best Cars Under $25K That Are Totally Worth Buying

Buying a new car is a big financial commitment, especially when considering that the average price of a new car in 2025 is around $48,699. Luckily, for buyers with a more conservative budget, there are a number of options that balance reliability with affordability — from compact SUVs to fuel-efficient sedans for your daily commute.

The good news is that whatever vehicle you're looking for, there are plenty of reliable options to be had at an incredibly affordable entry point. The 10 vehicles highlighted below are all under $25,000, each one delivering standout features and smart technology, all without blowing past your new car budget — now that's a smart money move for car owners.

Editor's note: All fuel economy data comes from road testing completed by Consumer Reports.

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MSRP: $24,690

Starting at just under $25K, the 2025 Kia Seltos delivers plenty for the price tag. Plus, when you purchase a Seltos, you get the reliability of the Kia nameplate, which Consumer Reports ranks third out of the 17 mainstream car brands sold in the United States.

This subcompact SUV also feels bigger inside than it looks, with the ability to comfortably seat five passengers and generous room left over in the load area, too. In terms of safety, the Seltos delivers on this front as well, coming standard with forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.

MSRP: $24,360

A rarity at this price point, the 2025 Subaru Impreza comes standard with all-wheel drive. The Impreza also offers solid fuel economy at 29 mpg combined, which adds up to an estimated average annual fuel cost of $1,344 per year. Another bonus is that Consumer Reports ranks the Subaru nameplate first overall out of 32 car brands sold in the United States.

Taking a seat inside the Impreza, you'll quickly find many more hidden gems in its spacious interior, like its user-friendly infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. So, for buyers looking for everyday versatility at an affordable starting point, along with the year-round dependability Subaru is known for, the Impreza is sure to deliver.

MSRP: $24,250

For decades now, the Honda Civic has proven itself to be the go-to small car. The 2025 Civic doesn't disappoint, either. Its affordable entry point, combined with a fuel economy of 33 mpg, still sets the benchmark in the compact class. In terms of safety, Honda delivers with the Civic. The sedan comes standard with forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking technology.

The Civic's sleek design and refined cabin also serve as highlights of this sedan. Plus, you can count on the reliability delivered by the Honda nameplate. The brand was recognized with second-place honors by Consumer Reports, going up against the 17 mainstream car brands sold in the United States.

MSRP: $24,150

Providing sporty handling and driver comfort, the 2025 Mazda 3 has a well-earned reputation as the driver's compact car. With its refined interior, 8.8-inch infotainment display, eight-speaker audio system, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, the Mazda 3 delivers well above what its price tag would suggest.

This compact car also offers solid fuel economy, averaging 30 mpg overall. Plus, Consumer Reports suggests that the annual average fuel cost for the Mazda 3 sits around $1,300. Thus, combined with standard safety features like automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning, the Mazda 3 delivers where it counts.

MSRP: $22,995

A bold compact sedan with European styling, the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta offers buyers more than what would be expected at this price point. Along with providing a smooth ride and a roomy interior, the Jetta comes standard with an 8-inch infotainment display and Volkswagen IQ.DRIVE driver assistance safety suite that includes front and rear radar, cameras, and a variety of monitors to create a safer driving experience.

Another key benefit of the Jetta is its stellar fuel economy, reaching up to 34 mpg combined. Average annual fuel costs associated with driving a Jetta are also a key highlight, which Consumer Reports suggests averages out to around $1,147 per year. Thus, from its bold styling to its everyday practicality, the Jetta remains a smart option available at a very conservative price point.

MSRP: $22,325

Long renowned as a reliable nameplate, the 2025 Corolla serves as proof that Toyota continues to deliver on the formula that made it a household name. Along with delivering sound reliability at a very affordable entry point, the Corolla comes stacked with standard safety technology like forward collision warning, lane keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control.

This compact sedan also delivers impressive fuel economy, achieving 36 mpg combined. Consumer Reports notes that the average annual fuel cost of a 2025 Corolla is just $1,083 per year. Thus, for drivers looking for a proven mix of legendary reliability, proven efficiency, and value at a conservative entry point, the 2025 Corolla will check off all of those boxes.

MSRP: $21,830

A bold subcompact SUV, the 2025 Nissan Kicks provides style and practicality in a budget-friendly package. The Kicks delivers a roomy cabin that comes stacked with a full suite of active safety and driver assistance features. Along with its easy maneuverability and secure handling, the Kicks is praised for providing user-friendly controls.

While the base model comes standard with front-wheel drive, Nissan's new intelligent all-wheel drive system is an available upgrade. The Kicks is also easy on gas for an SUV with an average mileage of 27 mpg combined. At the end of the day, this four-door SUV offers a ton of value to both commuters and first-time buyers.

MSRP: $20,500

Despite its starting MSRP, the 2025 Chevrolet Trax doesn't scream budget buy. Luckily, though, this small SUV provides all the bells and whistles you could want from a new car at a very budget-friendly price.

From its intuitive infotainment system that comes standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity to its roomy cabin with generous cargo capacity, the Chevy Trax has a lot to offer. Plus, with an impressive combined fuel economy of 31 mpg, the Trax proves to be a smart buy.

MSRP: $20,490

A compelling alternative to full-sized SUVs and compact sedans, the boxy design of the 2025 Kia Soul proves to be compact yet roomy where it counts. This subcompact crossover SUV comes with impressive headroom and plenty of cargo space.

In terms of safety, the Soul comes standard with forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking features. Plus, Kia's famous 10-year/100,000-mile drivetrain warranty makes the Soul not only a bargain, but a practical and reliable purchase.

MSRP: $20,200

Just a hair over 20K, the 2025 Hyundai Venue is one of the most affordable subcompact crossover SUVs on the market today. Built on a small-car platform, the Venue provides more agile handling and easy maneuverability while still delivering the roomy cabin expected of a small SUV.

The Venue also comes standard with a complete line of safety tech features, from lane keeping assist and automatic emergency braking to forward collision warning. In terms of fuel economy, the Venue is a top performer, offering an impressive 32 mpg combined. At the end of the day, the Venue stacks up to be a smart pick for buyers looking for an affordable and reliable method of transportation.

If we've learned anything today, it's that purchasing a new car in 2025 is actually more accessible than most people might think. The 10 vehicles outlined above each serve as proof that reliability and affordability can actually coexist when it comes to new car ownership.

At the end of the day, buying a new vehicle in 2025 doesn't require you to drain your savings account. And while buying used may seem like the smarter financial decision, just keep in mind the fuel costs associated with older models.

It's also important to protect your investment, so shopping around for affordable insurance coverage is always a good idea. Take your time and choose wisely on your next car purchase to ensure you're making the smartest decision possible.