12 Budget-Friendly 2025 Cars You Can Snag for Under $30K

Planning to upgrade your vehicle? A new car doesn't always mean a hefty price tag. Many affordable models offer impressive features, fuel efficiency, and modern technology.

We've curated a list of 2025 models that strike the perfect balance between affordability and performance and will help keep more cash in your wallet.

MSRP: $28,400

There’s a reason the Toyota Camry is one of the bestselling vehicles in the country. The sedan has an updated look for 2025 while keeping the basics that make it a great deal, like gas mileage, which is 51 combined mpg.

MSRP: $28,295

Another sedan that sells well is the Honda Accord. The 2025 model includes plenty of safety features to help you feel secure when you drive, such as lane departure assist, collision braking assist, and other added features to keep you safe as you drive.

MSRP: $26,990

You may not have considered a Kia, but the Kia K5 could be a good option, and you shouldn’t overlook it.

One of the great things about the 2025 model is the dual panoramic display inside that helps you navigate or customize your driving experience with a big enough screen to see everything in front of you.

Price: $28,570

The Mazda CX-5 crossover SUV combines the sportiness of a car with the extra cargo space of an SUV, giving you a versatile vehicle at an affordable price.

Price: $21,590

The four-door Nissan Sentra is packed with technology to help you navigate your life from your car. Connect your phone with Apple Car Play to seamlessly integrate maps, music, and more between your car and phone.

You can also use the MyNissan app to monitor your vehicle or lock your doors, remote start your engine, or use other features in the app to make ownership easy.

Price: $23,495

Drive something impressive with the Subaru Impreza, described as a fun drive by Consumer Reports. The report described the Impreza as handling well and agile in various driving conditions.

Price: $21,995

If you’re working on a tight budget, you might want to consider the Volkswagen Jetta for your next vehicle.

The Jetta has a lower maintenance cost than other similar models made by Honda or Toyota, and you may qualify for additional cash off depending on whether you’re a recent graduate or a veteran.

Check with your local dealer to see if you could qualify for additional offers.

Price: $23,700

The Buick Envista crossover SUV has special styling that won’t bust your wallet if you’re on a budget.

Check out the vehicle’s ultrawide infotainment screen that can help you control settings in your car and navigate your drive or its safety and driver-assist features to keep you safe behind the wheel.

Price: $21,830

The Nissan Kicks can get you an SUV without overspending. The Kicks has been redesigned with high-tech features while maintaining the extra storage capacity you expect from an SUV to get you and your cargo around town.

Price: $23,625

If you’re worried about gas prices, it may be time to get a hybrid vehicle like the Toyota Corolla Hybrid.

The Corolla Hybrid gets an estimated 53 mpg in the city and 46 mpg on highways, making it easier to reduce the amount of gas you use and save money at the pump.

Price: $21,875

Safety may be a factor when choosing a new car, so the Hyundai Elantra could be added to your list.

The 2025 model hasn’t been tested by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety yet, but the previous year’s model was a top safety pick from the institute, and other models have also scored that title for their safety records.

Price: $20,400

Try a compact SUV like the Chevrolet Trax, which can give you the space you need while staying within your budget.

The Trax also includes safety features like lane assist and collision alerts to help you stay safe on the road.

With careful planning and smart budgeting, you can drive off the lot in a new car without breaking the bank.

And remember, shopping around for the best car insurance can also help save you money in the long run.