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Having a low budget but still want to purchase a new car in 2021? We got your back!
Check out our list of the cheapest brand-new cars that are reliable on the road, look nice, and have a fair price for the new car. Our experts selected the best cheap new cars considering the overall rating that evaluates the specifications, price range, interior, a brief description of the model, pros and cons.
We provide information based on our research and guarantee that you will find a new affordable car on the market that will suit all your requirements for safety, vehicle performance, technology, and, of course, price.
We collected the best vehicles with excellent specifications, fair quality/price ratio, and in our rating of good cheap cars. Can’t wait to find out about the model of the cheapest car? We got you!
And this is just the beginning! Next, we will review each car model separately to close up with specs information, interior, price range, pros, and cons. The first vehicle is one of the least expensive cars in our rating, Kia Soul, placing in the 10th position.
Here is the complete list of the best and cheapest new cars in 2021:
1 Kia Soul
About the Car Model
Kia Soul is one of the best-priced autos, with safety technologies, increased convenience, innovation, excellent capabilities and comfort. It is the best car at a low price in the world by many ratings. The vehicle includes top-notch technologies such as The Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™ smartphone integration, blind-spot detection, and many more.
Specs
| Specifications | ||
| Maximum Horsepower @ RPM147 @ 6200 | Maximum Torque @ RPM132 @ 4500 | EPA Fuel Economy, combined/city/highway mpg30 / 28 / 33 |
| Wheelbase (inches)102.4 | 7-Speed DCT Transmission w/ Paddle Shifters | 1.6L 4-Cyl Engine w/ 201 HP |
| Sunroof, LED Headlights, Fog Lights | Head-Up Display, Wireless Phone Charger | Navigation System (10.25-inch Screen) w/ Rear Camera |
| 18-inch Alloy GT-Line Wheels | Cargo (Std/Max):24/62 cu. | Length165.2 |
Interior
Kia Soul is a small cheap car with an SUV/Crossover body style. However, the interior is well-made, packed with modern technologies such as head-up display, wireless phone charger, audio system with speaker lights and many more. For the interior images, visit Kia Soul interior pics.
Pros & Cons
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
| Best budget car | Turbo engine is a clunky dual-clutch automatic |
| Fuel efficient for the city | Giant touchscreen limited to EX and Turbo models |
| Great ride and handling | No AWD option |
| Spacious interior | Lots of wind noise |
Prices
$17,590 – $27,650
The 2021 Soul LX is the least expensive car trim, starting MSRP at $17,590. The more costly trims go up to $27,650 for the 2021 Soul Turbo.
2 Hyundai Veloster 2.0
About the Car Model
The Hyundai Veloster 2.0 is the best car at a low price with the best specs and quality/price range. As a result, it places one of the leading positions among compact SUVs, despite top competition in the compact car class and affordable automobiles.
Specs
| Specifications | ||
| Six-speed shiftable automatic transmission model | Basic Warranty 5 yr./ 60000 mi. | EPA estimated mpg (Cty/Hwy) 27/34 |
| Horsepower 147 hp @ 6200 rpm | Drive Type Front-wheel drive | Range In Miles (Cty/Hwy) 356.4/448.8 mi. |
| Torque 132 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm | Maximum Cargo Capacity 44.5 cu. ft. | Length 166.9 in. |
| Speed 60 mph in 5.9 seconds | Engine Type Gas | Total Seating 4/4 |
Interior
This city car is very comfortable and roomy, pleasing cargo space, standard infotainment system with a 7-inch touch screen, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Bluetooth. The cabin is stylish and made of suitable quality materials.
Pros & Cons
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
| Lowest price new car comes with solid standard features | Not perfect interior quality |
| Lithe handling | Subpar fuel economy for the class |
| Intuitive infotainment system | Not best for snowy winter |
| Peppy optional turbocharged engines | Not a great pick for more prominent families |
Prices
$18,900 – 28,450
The cheapest new import car Hyundai Veloster 2.0, has a brilliant design and standard features, with the average for the class starting price point of $18,900. It provides extra cargo space, a roomy interior and a modern infotainment system.
3 Chevrolet Spark
About the Car Model
The Chevrolet Spark is one of the most affordable cars with the city’s best quality and mileage of 30 mpg. It is a compact, newish car model providing comfort and the best performance.
Specs
| Specifications | ||
| EPA Mileage Est. (Cty/Hwy) 30/38 mpg | Total Seating 4/4 | Drive Type Front-wheel drive |
| Power 98 hp @ 6200 rpm | Range In Miles (Cty/Hwy) 270.0/342.0 mi. | Basic warranty years 3./ 36000 mi. |
| Wheelbase (in)93.9 | Torque 94 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm | Engine Gas I4, 1.4L |
| TransmissionContinuously Variable Auto Ratio | Displacement 1.4L/85 | Fuel Tank Capacity, Approx (gal) 9 |
Interior
The interior is very compact but with a rich features list. The quality of the cabin is excellent for the price, minimalistic design and size efficiency. For more details, check out the gallery.
Pros & Cons
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
| Cheapest price | Uncomfortable front seats |
| Easy maneuverability | Tiny second row and cargo hold |
| Infotainment system with a lot of features | Mixed cabin quality |
| Not best acceleration |
Prices
$13,400 – $17,900
The Chevrolet Spark is the least expensive new car with excellent trim choices, starting at $13,400. However, the most expensive model starts at $17,900 for the 4dr HB CVT 2LT.
4 Mitsubishi Mirage Hatchback
About the Car Model
Mitsubishi Mirage Hatchback provides excellent value for its price, featuring extensive warranty coverage, excellent fuel economy, and maneuverability. So you get superior ride quality and efficiency in one car!
Specs
| Specifications | ||
| Fuel Economy:33 / 41 mpg | Horsepower:78@6,000 | Engine: 3-Cyl 1.2 Liter MIVEC |
| 5 Speed manual transmission (5MT) | Seating5/5 | Height59.4 |
| Length151.4 | Cargo Capacity17.1/47.0 | Torque74@4,000 |
| Wheelbase96.5 | Fuel Capacity9.2 | Front Legroom41.7 |
Interior
The car’s interior is pleasant and comfortable for its price. The front row offers comfortable accommodations, generous cargo space with folding rear seats. This car also features Apple Carplay and Android Auto as part of the standard infotainment system.
Pros & Cons
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
| Excellent fuel economy EPA | Very underpowered |
| User-friendly infotainment system | Noisy ride |
| The great extended warranty option | Tin-can construction |
| Enough cargo space | Unrefined powertrain |
Prices
$14,295 – $18,195
The prices range between $14,295 for the entry-level trim and go up to $18,195 for the G4 sedan. Mitsubishi is offering the best overall package among rivals.
5 Nissan Versa
About the Car Model
Automotive’s best buy award, the Nissan Versa, offers one of the best price points for its value and one of the fastest top speed drift. Every Nissan Versa gets a top-notch infotainment system, cruise control, and excellent fuel efficiency that returns 30 combined fuel MPG.
Specs
| Specifications | ||
| Fuel Economy:27 / 35 mpg | Horsepower:122@6,300 | Engine: 4-Cyl 1.6 Liter |
| Transmission, 5 Speed Manual | Seating5/5 | Torque114@4,000 |
| Front Legroom44.5 | Cargo Capacity14.7 | Height 57.3 |
| Wheelbase103.1 | Fuel Capacity10.8 | Length177.0 |
Interior
Spacious cabin, 7.0-inch touchscreen, the sporty interior makes a surpassing first impression. For more information on the interior, check out the official website.
Pros & Cons
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
| High fuel efficiency | Not a lot of interior storage for small items |
| Best price tag auto | Sluggish acceleration |
| Upscale cabin | Slow infotainment system |
| Solid safety features | Tiny rear seats |
Prices
$15,855 – $19,265
The entry-level Nissan Versa, starting at $15,855, has various standard features available. The Versa SV adds in Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and the $19,265 Versa SR with additional interior and fuel economy improvements.
6 Hyundai Accent
About the Car Model
The Hyundai Accent is a superb choice for daily driving in the city. It is small enough to fit parking spots easily, efficient fuel economy and responsive infotainment system.
Specs
| Specifications | ||
| Transmission Continuously variable-speed automatic | Total Seating 5/5 | Limited basic warranty 5 yr./ 60000 mi. |
| Automatic Emergency Braking Assist | Inline 4 Cylinder Engine | Combined MPG 36 |
| Engine Type Gas | Drive Type Front-wheel drive | Wheel Base 101.6 in |
| Horsepower 120 hp @ 6300 rpm | Torque 113 lb-ft @ 4850 rpm | Cargo Capacity, All Seats In Place 13.7 cu. ft. |
Interior
A well-built simple interior is perfect for its price range. The roomy seats, classy cabin and standard built-in technologies are worth every penny.
Pros & Cons
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
| Easy infotainment interface | Limited cargo room |
| Spacious seating | Underpowered engine |
| Above-average fuel economy with CVT | Unstable ride over rough pavement |
| Great reliability score |
Prices
$15,395 – 19,500
The starting price for Nissan Accent is $15,395, which is an average for subcompact cars. The CVT costs an additional $1,100, and SEL trim starts at $17,750. The Top trim starts at $19,500.
7 Kia Rio Sedan
About the Car Model
The Kia Rio is number one in the subcompact sedans. Its fuel efficiency, revised styling, and modern technologies are the best in the 2021 model year.
Specs
| Specifications | ||
| Basic Warranty 5 yr./ 60000 mi. | Fuel Economy:33 / 41 mpg | Engine: 4-Cylinder 1.6 Liter Gamma 1.6 MPI |
| Transmission Continuously variable-speed automatic | Automatic Emergency Braking | Standard Forward Collision Warning |
| Horsepower120@6,300 | Seating 5/5 | Torque112@4,500 |
| DrivetrainFWD | Fuel Capacity11.9 | Wheelbase101.6 |
Interior
Sedan’s interior has a spacious cabin, comfortable and adjustable to your needs. Automatic temperature control, essential buttons close within reach, and standard 8.0-inch touch-screen display makes the Kia Rio Sedan model stand out among competitors.
Pros & Cons
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
| Perfect price/value relation | Not enough power and torque |
| Great fuel economy | Tiny second row |
| Inexpensive car, but it doesn’t feel cheap | Subpar cargo space |
| Sporty handling makes it fun to drive | Not enough standard equipment |
Prices
$16,050 – $17,685
The base price for the Kia Rio’s standard trim starts at $16,050 and goes up to $17,685 for the S trim. For more price details, visit the official website.
8 Nissan Sentra
About the Car Model
The Nissan Sentra is one of the best affordable compact sedans, offering a perfect price/quality range. Nevertheless, the new 2021 model improves ride quality and interior, making it look much more expensive.
Specs
| Specifications | ||
| Fuel Economy:29 / 39 mpg | Safety features (IIHS) | Horsepower149@6,400 |
| Torque146@4,400 | Seating5/5 | Engine: 4-Cyl 2.0 Liter |
| Automatic Transmission, Xtronic | Height56.9 | Fuel Capacity12.4 |
| Wheelbase106.6 | Basic Warranty 3 yr./ 36000 mi. | Front-wheel drive |
Interior
The Nissan Sentra interior is excellent for its value, providing superior comfort and a pleasant luxury experience. It’s pretty, and at the same time, prioritizes your comfort.
Pros & Cons
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
| Perfect fuel economy | Slow acceleration |
| Nice interior | Average braking performance |
| Comfortable ride | Not enough engine power |
| Outstanding safety and tech standard features | Not best long-term value |
Prices
$19,460 – $23,930
The price ranges between $19,460 and $23,930, depending on the trim level you choose. For more details, visit the official website.
9 Hyundai Elantra
About the Car Model
Hyundai Elantra is one of the most attractive compact sedans on the market, featuring impressive design and comfort for the best price. It is the second on our car list because of its undoubtedly excellent price range, quality ranking and specifications.
Specs
| Specifications | ||
| Drive Type: Front-wheel drive | Total Seating: 5/5 | Basic Warranty: 5 yr./ 60000 mi. |
| Emergency Brake Assist System | Continuously variable-speed automatic | Standard MPG33 city mpg / 43 highway mpg |
| Horsepower147@6,200 | Engine: 4-Cyl 2.0 Liter | Torque132@4,500 |
| Combined fuel efficiency 100 km per 7.8 litre | DrivetrainFWD | Top Speed 116 mph |
Interior
The interior of Honda Elantra is average among rivals, with a standard entertainment system and sleek design. For more information, check out the car’s interior pictures.
Pros & Cons
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
| Beautiful exterior styling | Poor acceleration with an on-turbo engine |
| Huge touchscreen | Cheap plastic in the cabin |
| Excellent fuel economy | The best infotainment features not standard |
| Limited steering feedback |
Price
$19,650 – $25,450
The Honda Elantra has an average price range, starting at $19,650. This low base price, standard features, and standard warranty makes this a good starter car.
10 Volkswagen Jetta
About the Car Model
The Volkswagen Jetta is a leader in our rating for the cheapest compact new cars with the best value. It offers an inexpensive, comfortable ride, equipped with plenty of modern technology, such as Carplay Android auto and collision warning.
Specs
| Specifications | ||
| Fuel Economy:30 / 40 mpg | 8-speed shiftable automatic | Engine: 4-Cyl Turbo 1.4 Liter |
| Horsepower147@5,000 | Torque184@1,400 | Engine TypeTurbo Gas |
| Seating5/5 | Wheelbase105.7 | DrivetrainFWD |
| Basic Warranty 4 yr./ 50000 mi. | Range In Miles (Cty/Hwy) 391.5/526.5 mi. | Turning Circle 36.7 ft lbs |
Interior
The interior in Volkswagen Jetta is roomy and comfortable enough, with impressive performance. The cabin design stands out among other compact sedans.
Pros & Cons
| ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
| Roomy cabin | Not best materials in the cabin |
| Infotainment features | Average driving experience |
| Great GLI model | Not enough standard aids |
Price
$36,540 – $28,045
The Volkswagen Jetta’s price range starts at $18,995, a slightly lower average for compact sedans. With an annual Fuel Cost of $1,400, Volkswagen Jetta has a fantastic value for its price. It is the best car for the money.
