These Are All The New Cars That Still Start Under $20,000

It's still possible to buy a cheap car, even in today's market

6 New Cars Under $20,000 chevy spark — Photo: Chevrolet

If the current automotive market has you stressed out when all you want is a cheap new car, you’re not alone. It’s getting harder and harder to find an affordable machine for those of us who don’t mind a vehicle that sticks to the basics. Thankfully, there are still a handful of brand-new cars that you can buy for under $20,000.

Do note that these cars are listed based on their MSRP, or manufacturer suggested retail price. That means there could still be additional fees should you purchase your vehicle from a dealership — but the lower prices should help keep you safely within that $20,000 budget.

If you hit the bottom of this list and are wondering why I didn’t include the Ford Maverick, that’s because I’m including the destination fee in the MSRP. Destination fees are not optional, and it’s goofy that automakers don’t just include those numbers in the MSRP — but I digress.

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6. Subaru Impreza: $19,790

6 New Cars Under $20,000 subaru impreza — Image: Subaru

Horsepower: 152 hp
Torque: 145 lb-ft
Fuel Economy: 26 combined / 23 city / 31 highway
Transmission: Manual

At the very top of our price range, the Subaru Impreza doesn’t give buyers much wiggle room when it comes to adding optional features, moving up a trim, or absorbing any dealership fees while still staying in our $20,000 bracket — but you may find it worth it for the added bit of power its larger engine provides over the competition. With standard all-wheel drive, you can also guarantee you’ll have a little fun, making this a compelling choice for enthusiasts on a budget.

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5. Hyundai Accent: $17,690

6 New Cars Under $20,000 hyundai accent — Photo: Hyundai

Horsepower: 120 hp
Torque: 113 lb-ft
Fuel Economy: 36 mpg combined / 33 mpg city / 41 mpg highway
Transmission: Automatic CVT

The Hyundai Accent may cost a little more than some of its competition in this list, but those extra dollars were well-spent on handsome styling, simple but functional interior equipment, and an enjoyable drive. If you’re looking for a car that carries the dignified air of something far more expensive, the Accent is it.

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4. Kia Rio: $17,275

6 New Cars Under $20,000 kia rio — Image: Kia

Horsepower: 120 hp
Torque: 112 lb-ft
Fuel Economy: 36 mpg combined / 33 mpg city / 41 mpg highway
Transmission: Automatic CVT

Get behind the wheel of the Kia Rio and you might find yourself thinking it’s a more expensive car. It’s not handsome, but it’ll get the job done, and you’ll actually enjoy driving it. An added bonus is the fact that smartphone-mirroring features come standard on the Rio, which is more than offered by its competition. That said, moving from the base trim to a one with keyless entry, adjustable headrests, and cruise control will only cost you $640.

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3. Nissan Versa: $16,205

6 New Cars Under $20,000 nissan versa — Image: Nissan

Horsepower: 122 hp
Torque: 114 lb-ft
Fuel Economy: 30 mpg combined / 27 mpg city / 35 mpg highway
Transmission: Manual

The sleek Nissan Versa has some exceptional safety standards for a cheap car, but if you want any extra features, you’re going to have to spend at least $2,810 to move up a trim level. That said, you may not feel like you need it. The Versa is a comfortable drive through and through, which makes it a great option for daily drivers.

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2. Mitsubishi Mirage: $16,125

6 New Cars Under $20,000 mitsubishi mirage — Photo: Mitsubishi

Horsepower: 78 hp
Torque: 74 hp
Fuel Economy: 36 mpg combined / 33 mpg city / 41 mpg highway
Transmission: Manual

We have several staunch Mitsubishi Mirage defenders here at Jalopnik, and that comes down to its solid blend of excellent fuel mileage and manual transmission. If you’re looking for a fun, high-quality ride, though, the Mirage isn’t it. Instead, you’re going to be buying this bad boy because of its delightful fuel mileage, its heaps of cargo space, and its long warranty. If you want an automatic transmission, you’ll have to move up a trim — a $1,950 jump.

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1. Chevrolet Spark: $14,595

Horsepower: 96 hp
Torque: 94 lb-ft
Fuel Economy: 33 mpg combined / 29 mpg city / 38 mpg highway
Transmission: Manual

The cheapest vehicle on our list is the inimitable Chevy Spark. This little workhorse benefits from Chevy’s solid infotainment system and its use of decent interior materials to prevent the whole driving experience from feeling cheap. You’re probably not going to love it on the highway, and the rear seat is cramped, but it’s the most bang for your buck that you can get for under $15,000. You even have room to move up a few trims if you want keyless entry or add the automatic transmission package (the latter of which is a whopping $1,100).

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