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

You can still get a great car even if your budget is tight.

senior couple inside the car
Jenny Cohen
By Jenny Cohen
Chris Kissell
Edited by Chris Kissell
Updated Sept. 17, 2024
Fact checked

We receive compensation from the products and services mentioned in this story, but the opinions are the author's own. Compensation may impact where offers appear. We have not included all available products or offers. Learn more about how we make money and our editorial policies.

A new car can be an expensive purchase, especially if you are on a tight budget. The good news is that some great options are available that will go easy on your wallet.

Check out these affordable options that come in around $25,000 based on the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP). That makes them great finds that can help eliminate some money stress.

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Honda Civic

Courtesy of Honda honda civic

MSRP: $24,250

The 2025 version of the Honda Civic includes a hybrid engine option that can recover energy from braking. The power recovery means it can get more miles per gallon and potentially save you money on gas.

With the hybrid engine, the Civic can get around 50 miles per gallon in the city and 47 miles per gallon on highways.

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Hyundai Kona

Courtesy of Hyundai hyundai kona

MSRP: $24,350

The 2025 Hyundai Kona can get up to 35 miles per gallon on the highway, depending on the model you choose. That could come in handy if you are trying to save money on gas.

The Kona earned a Top Safety Pick Plus ranking for its 2024 model from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

Toyota Corolla

Courtesy of Toyota toyota corolla

MSRP: $22,050

The Toyota Corolla is a popular model that routinely is among the top sellers in the U.S. One reason for its popularity may be the sleek styling that makes it as attractive as it is affordable.

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Ford Maverick

Courtesy of Ford ford maverick

MSRP: $23,920

You may be surprised that you can get a pickup truck for less than $25,000, but Ford gives you that option with the Ford Maverick. The four-door truck has a 4,000-pound towing capacity.

Mazda3

Courtesy of Mazda mazda3

MSRP: $23,950

The new model of the Mazda3 has the option for I-Activ all-wheel drive, which might be something you want to consider if you live in a winter-weather environment and need extra traction on roads.

The 2024 model of the Mazda3 earned a Top Safety Pick Plus rating from the IIHS.

Chevrolet Trailblazer

Courtesy of Chevrolet chevrolet trailblazer

MSRP: $23,100

The Chevrolet Trailblazer is a stylish compact SUV that has all-wheel drive available as an option.

It has room for five passengers. Or, lay the front passenger seat flat if you need extra storage capacity.

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Subaru Legacy

Courtesy of Subaru subaru legacy

MSRP: $24,895

The Subaru Legacy has a starting price close to the maximum of $25,000 in your budget.

However, it might be worth the price, as you get room for five passengers and a large display screen for maps, entertainment, hands-free calls, and more.

Honda HR-V

Courtesy of Honda honda hr-v

MSRP: $25,100

The Honda HR-V has a starting price of just over $25,000, but it might be worth paying slightly more cash for a compact SUV.

The vehicle’s options include extras for sports enthusiasts, such as attachments for bikes, snowboards, surfboards, and more.

Volkswagen Taos

Courtesy of Volkswagen volkswagen taos

MSRP: $23,995

Another good compact SUV option is the Volkswagen Taos, which offers seating for five passengers.

Volkswagen touts the vehicle’s affordable maintenance costs, which are lower than other vehicles in the segment.

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Kia Seltos

Courtesy of Kia kia seltos

MSRP: $24,590

The Kia Seltos has a price tag under $25,000 for its base model. The vehicle includes safety features such as lane assist and pedestrian and cyclist detection.

You can also get all-wheel drive, an important feature if you live in a winter-weather climate.

Bottom line

hedgehog94/Adobe businessman buying used car

Even on a tight budget, you can still nab a good vehicle without busting your wallet.

Another great way to cut the cost of car ownership is to compare several quotes so you can find a policy that will help you save on car insurance.

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