Sub-$25K New Cars Still Exist in the US, but They're Not EVs

The past few months have been riddled with news about all-electric vehicles not performing well in cold weather. Then, charging issues (stalls not working, long queues, and frozen plugs), depreciation, chaotic pricing, expensive insurance, and unexpectedly costly high-voltage battery replacements (fret not; it's not a common phenomenon) have created the perfect storm for EV makers. Their sales are suffering.

In January and February, the best-selling models were the Ford F-150 (the Maverick also gets an honorable mention) and the Toyota RAV4, respectively. Tesla and General Motors might have had better sales numbers, but we would never know because they don't report monthly figures.

Internal combustion engine-powered vehicles (ICEVs) and full hybrids (also known as self-charging hybrids) are making a comeback. But we'll see what's what soon. We have to wait for Tesla to confirm its quarterly deliveries. Don't forget that the Model Y was 2023's world's best-selling car!

But if you can't charge at home, be bothered to learn everything about EVs, get a used EV, and deal with the current state of the public charging infrastructure, there are a few brand-new cars out there that are worthy of your attention. Believe it or not, sub-$25,000 (with an approximate tax rate of six percent included) rides are still available.

And don't think you're alone in this. A recent Cars.com survey revealed that most American shoppers are interested in vehicles that are priced below $30,000. That's the out-the-door (OTD) price. So, it's a bit more evident than ever that automakers should think less about revolutionizing their lineup and more about making it affordable.

Nissan's triumvirate

The Japanese automaker may need to find a partner in Honda and keep its relationship with Renault intact to secure its future in the all-electric era (or start a new one with Fisker), but it surely has the right rides for anyone on a budget.

The cool thing is that Nissan doesn't have just one set of affordable wheels or two. There are three:

• 2024 Nissan Versa S – $16,390 ($17,373 with tax);
• 2024 Nissan Sentra S – $20,890 ($22,143 with tax);
• 2024 Nissan Kicks S – $21,050 ($22,313 with tax).

The Sentra and the Kicks both come with the CVT gearbox as standard. But for only $1,670 more, you can add the CVT and some extra equipment to the Versa. The automatic transmission gets better fuel efficiency (an extra 5 mpg, per the EPA), so it might be worth the financial penalty.

The Hyundai duo

If there's one automaker out there with the biggest glow-up, then it must be Hyundai. Its latest cars look clean and futuristic without embracing a divisive identity. The South Korean marque may have gone all-out with designing some of the best or most interesting-looking EVs, hybrids, and ICEVs, but it hasn't forgotten its roots.

The 2024 Hyundai Venue SE, a lifted hatchback (or compact SUV), starts from $19,900 ($21,094 with six percent tax), while the modernized Elantra SE has a price tag of $21,625 ($22,923 with tax).

The former provides a truly entry-level experience while trying to remain versatile, and the latter wants to be a commuting appliance you'll trust. Both come with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, an 8-inch infotainment screen, 15-inch wheels, and some useful driver-assistance systems.

Design-wise, the Elantra looks better than the wannabe Santa Fe. However, it's up to you. Just keep in mind that the rear passenger might be happier to travel with you if you choose the sedan.

The Kia duo

Staying true to its nature as a thriving member of the Hyundai Group, Kia wants cost-conscious people to buy a Forte LX for $19,990 ($21,189 with tax) or a Soul LX for $20,190 ($21,401 with tax).

The former will soon be replaced by the upcoming K4 and become a bit more expensive, while the latter is already a hit. In some parts of the US, they are as popular as the white Tesla Model Y in California.

If Hyundai or Kia cars attracted your attention, don't forget about their "street cred." The "Kia Boyz" trend really tarnished both brands' image. Even now, some youngsters are attempting to break into Kia and Hyundai vehicles because they believe it can be done with a basic USB cable.

Kia also features the Rio on its main website. Sadly, the very affordable hatchback has been discontinued. You can only buy some 2023 MY inventory units or slightly used ones.

Mitsubishi, VW, Toyota, and… Chevy have something, too!

No, it's not an optical illusion. Mitsubishi is still going strong and has the Outlander to thank for that. The plug-in hybrid version is especially good. However, a brand-new $sub-25,000 tax-included Mitsubishi is a rare but welcoming sight. The 2024 Mirage comes in hatchback and sedan forms, and it'll set you back $16,695 ($17,697) and $17,795 ($18,863), respectively. Both rides have the CVT gearbox.

VW's generous portfolio isn't that good for potential buyers looking for deals, but the Jetta S still has a starting price of $21,345 ($22,626 with tax). But that's the cost of the sedan equipped with the six-speed manual transmission. It might be a good idea to have one if you live in a place where cars are stolen often, but if you want comfortable journeys, the 8-speed Tiptronic is the one to get.

However, it's quite the upgrade. We're moving very close to the price limit: $23,460 ($24,868 with tax).

Toyota's reputation for reliability doesn't mean that it must sell affordable cars. The Corolla is the only sub-$25,000 vehicle it sells. The 2024 MY unit comes in hybrid and non-hybrid form and is available as a sedan or as a hatchback.

The Corolla sedan's starting MSRP is $22,050 ($23,373 with tax). If you want the less gas-hungry hybrid or the gas-powered hatchback, prepare to come up with $1,450 more.

The Corolla Cross might have fitted on our list of budget-friendly rides, but factoring in tax would have taken us over the $25,000 mark. Too bad. That's a crossover with a lot of potential. It can be a great commuting appliance.

Last but not least, Chevy! The Trax and the Trailblazer are solid choices. The Trax is a favorite of ours because it has a great MSRP of $20,400 ($21,624 with tax) and offers a roomy interior that's paired with a fresh, modern exterior. On the other hand, the shorter 2024 Trailblazer starts from $23,100 ($24,486 with tax). We know which one we are choosing! Share your pick with us in the comment box below.

Whatever you choose from this list, just don't forget about insurance, registration, and other fees. Adjust your budget accordingly and make sure that you're searching everywhere before settling on a particular model. Local dealers may keep prices high artificially, and you don't have to support such incorrect business practices.

Finally, don't hesitate to share your own findings with us. Some of our readers may like your budget-friendly suggestions!