Buying a car is a major investment, especially as everyday costs continue to rise. With the average price of a new vehicle approaching $50,000 in 2026, finding an affordable option can be challenging. However, the experts at Edmunds have compiled a list of the five least expensive new cars available this year. While budget-friendly vehicles may lack powerful acceleration or leather seats, these five models offer a respectable array of features, good fuel economy, and solid overall performance in Edmunds' evaluations. All prices listed include the destination fee.
1. Hyundai Venue
The Hyundai Venue is a subcompact SUV and the least expensive vehicle for the 2026 model year. The base Venue SE trim comes with an 8-inch touchscreen featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Edmunds highlights its useful interior and easy-to-use controls, along with a long warranty and an EPA-estimated 31 mpg combined. However, all-wheel drive is not available. Edmunds overall evaluation score: 6/10. Starting price: $22,650.
2. Chevrolet Trax
The Chevrolet Trax is another five-seat subcompact SUV and Chevrolet's smallest and most affordable model. It is front-wheel drive only. Edmunds praises its surprising interior space and the easy-to-use 8-inch touchscreen with wireless smartphone connectivity on the base LS trim (higher trims get an 11-inch screen). EPA-estimated fuel economy is up to 30 mpg combined. Edmunds overall evaluation score: 7/10. Starting price: $23,495.
3. Kia K4
The Kia K4 is Kia's least expensive small car, available as a sedan or a new-for-2026 hatchback. Edmunds commends its generous rear legroom, long list of standard features, and attractive cabin. The base LX trim includes a 12.3-inch touchscreen and adaptive cruise control. EPA-estimated fuel economy is up to 33 mpg combined. Edmunds overall evaluation score: 7.5/10. Starting price: $23,535.
4. Nissan Sentra
The Nissan Sentra enters 2026 completely redesigned inside and out. It boasts a bold new look and standard driver aids such as adaptive cruise control, blind-spot warning, and lane keeping assistance. Edmunds gives high marks for its comfortable seating, large trunk, and modernized 12.3-inch touchscreen. EPA-estimated fuel economy is up to 33 mpg combined. Acceleration is leisurely, even for this group. Edmunds overall evaluation score: 6.2/10. Starting price: $23,845.
5. Hyundai Elantra
The Hyundai Elantra small sedan rounds out the list with one of the largest interiors in its class, a roomy trunk, and a long warranty. The base SE trim includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though its 8-inch touchscreen is smaller than those in the Sentra or K4. EPA-estimated fuel economy is up to 35 mpg combined. Edmunds overall evaluation score: 6.8/10. Starting price: $23,870.
Edmunds Says
These five cheapest cars may surprise you with how much value they offer. Far from the no-frills economy vehicles of the past, they deliver impressive style, technology, and safety features. This story was provided to The Associated Press by the automotive website Edmunds. Nick Kurczewski is a contributor at Edmunds.
