These are the best new cars that cost under $25K according to consumer reports

The best new cars under $25,000 in 2025 show that affordable cars and budget sedans are still available, even as average prices climb past $49,000.

Consumer Reports reviewed current lineups and identified nine vehicles that fall below the $25,000 mark at base price.

Some models move above that line once destination charges are included, but the report still highlights rare options for buyers with tighter budgets.

From compact sedans to hybrids and new SUVs, these vehicles remain some of the most accessible new cars on sale.

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Best new cars from consumer reports

Consumer Reports named nine vehicles under the $25,000 threshold.

The group spans sedans, hybrids, and compact new SUVs, giving buyers a mix of efficiency, practicality, and basic features at lower prices.

The Buick Envista starts at $24,600 before fees.

The compact crossover first launched in China before arriving in the US, and its inclusion reflects how few new SUVs remain near the entry-level price range.

The Mazda3 sedan begins at $24,550. In production since 2004, it has long been one of the most popular budget sedans in the US.

Consumer Reports pointed to its engine and suspension tuning, which make it more engaging to drive than many direct rivals.

The Toyota Corolla Hybrid LE is priced from $23,825.

It is the only hybrid on the list and achieves a combined fuel economy of 50 mpg, offering buyers both low running costs and one of the most efficient affordable cars available.

Hyundai’s Elantra SE and SEL trims continue to provide options under $25,000.

The SE starts at $22,125 and the SEL at $23,250, both part of a lineup that has sold more than 14 million units worldwide since its 1990 debut.

The Toyota Corolla LE costs $22,275 before fees.

With standard driver-assist technology and an EPA-rated fuel economy in the mid-30s, it continues to be one of the best new cars in the compact class.

The Nissan Sentra has three trims below the threshold.

The SV, at $22,290, adds equipment such as adaptive cruise control and a larger screen, giving buyers more features while staying in budget sedan territory.

The Nissan Kicks Play and Hyundai Venue are the smallest new SUVs included.

The Kicks Play begins at $21,520, while the Venue SE starts at $20,550. Both are positioned for urban buyers who want compact size and lower ownership costs.

The Nissan Versa remains the least expensive new car in the US.

The base S manual trim begins at $17,190, keeping it well below every other model on the list.

While higher trims add more technology, the Versa still represents one of the last true budget sedans.

Affordable cars in today’s market

Affordable cars now make up only a small share of new vehicle sales in the US.

Budget sedans and compact new SUVs serve as some of the last entry points for buyers trying to avoid the used market.

Automakers have kept certain models in production longer or introduced reduced-feature trims to maintain lower pricing.

The best new cars under $25K in 2025 confirm that options are limited but still available.

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