Finding an affordable new car for someone with bruised credit is likely pretty difficult nowadays.

Kelley Blue Book reported that tariffs pushed new-vehicle average transaction prices up by 2.5% month-over-month in April to $48,699. It was the second-highest increase in a single month during the past decade, with only a pandemic-triggered spike of 2.7% in April 2020 surpassing it, according to Cox Automotive tracking.

But EpicVIN compiled a list of the top 10 budget-friendly cars from the 2025 model year. Analysts said that just because these vehicles cost less than half of what the average price KBB noted, it doesn’t mean consumers of within any part of the credit spectrum are settling for low quality.

Thanks to advancements in technology, EpicVIN highlighted even the most affordable vehicles offer safety features, fuel efficiency, and modern designs.

Based on EpicVIN’s vehicle database and market research, analysts compiled this list of the top 10 cheapest new cars of 2025 that they believe can provide great value for the price.

“Our data shows that choosing the right budget car isn’t just about the sticker price. Long-term reliability, fuel efficiency, and resale value make the biggest difference in overall cost savings,” EpicVIN CMO Alex Black said.

Here are the best budget cars for 2025, ranked by affordability, according to EpicVIN, with additional comments from the company:

  1. 2025 Nissan Versa (Manual) – $18,340

Why it’s a great deal: The cheapest new car in the U.S.

Pros: Good gas mileage, big trunk, low insurance costs

Cons: Slow acceleration, basic features, manual transmission required for the lowest price

EpicVIN Insight: Versa models from previous years have retained over 60% of their value after five years.

  1. 2025 Chevrolet Trax – $21,495

Why it’s a great deal: A budget SUV with a stylish design

Pros: Spacious, smooth ride, good tech features

Cons: Front-wheel drive only, not as fuel-efficient as sedans

EpicVIN Insight: 2023-2024 Trax models had lower-than-average repair costs compared to competitors.

  1. 2025 Kia Soul – $21,680

Why it’s a great deal: A compact but spacious hatchback

Pros: Roomy interior, fun styling, affordable maintenance

Cons: No all-wheel drive option, base engine is underpowered

EpicVIN Insight: Kia Soul models hold their resale value better than many small SUVs in this price range.

  1. 2025 Hyundai Venue – $21,795

Why it’s a great deal: The cheapest Hyundai SUV

Pros: Small and easy to park, high safety ratings

Cons: Tight back seats, slow engine

EpicVIN Insight: The Venue ranks in the top 3 cheapest SUVs to insure, saving drivers hundreds per year.

  1. 2025 Nissan Sentra – $22,730

Why it’s a great deal: A step up from the Versa with more features

Pros: Comfortable ride, high fuel economy, good safety features

Cons: No AWD, not the quickest sedan

EpicVIN Insight: Sentra models have lower-than-average maintenance costs over 10 years.

  1. 2025 Kia K4 – $23,145

Why it’s a great deal: A brand-new Kia model with modern features

Pros: Sleek design, large touchscreen, affordable parts

Cons: Base engine lacks power, some competitors have better fuel economy

EpicVIN Insight: First-year models can have higher depreciation, but Kia’s warranty makes it a safer bet.

  1. 2025 Hyundai Elantra – $23,220

Why it’s a great deal: Reliable and fuel-efficient

Pros: Great gas mileage, high-tech interior, comfortable seats

Cons: Base engine is not exciting, CVT transmission is not for everyone

EpicVIN Insight: Hyundai Elantra ranks among the top cars for first-time buyers due to low long-term costs.

  1. 2025 Nissan Kicks – $23,210

Why it’s a great deal: A stylish subcompact SUV

Pros: Many driver-assist features, efficient engine

Cons: No hybrid option, limited cargo space

EpicVIN Insight: Kicks models have a strong resale value after 3 years, better than most subcompact SUVs.

  1. 2025 Volkswagen Jetta – $23,220

Why it’s a great deal: A refined compact sedan with good tech

Pros: Spacious interior, high fuel economy, smooth drive

Cons: No AWD option, base model lacks power

EpicVIN Insight: Jetta has one of the lowest repair costs among compact sedans, according to EpicVIN reports.

  1. 2025 Toyota Corolla – $23,460

Why it’s a great deal: Toyota’s legendary reliability at an affordable price

Pros: High resale value, fuel-efficient, hybrid option available

Cons: Cramped rear seats, basic infotainment system

EpicVIN Insight: Corolla models consistently rank in the top 5 for lowest depreciation rates.