Cheap reliable automobiles still do exist in demand. You may boast all the performance and luxury you like, but many buyers want a reliable, affordable car. If an automaker meets those two criteria, it will never fail.
Due to a significant mismatch between automobile supply and demand, cheap, reliable cars have been more valued in the U.S. since the arrival of Covid. When looking for an inexpensive model, many customers aren’t sure if it’s reliable or not. We’re here to show you that many great deals are still available.
However, choosing the cheapest reliable, used automobile might result in maintenance issues, so looking for reliable models is crucial. Some of the finest alternatives for an inexpensive, dependable car are well-known, but some new players on the market could surprise you.
So, if you’re searching for a reliable vehicle that won’t break the budget, we believe these are the only 10 vehicles you should consider. But before jumping onto the list, let us understand J.D. Power Rating first.
J.D. Power Rating
J.D. Power is an American company whose ratings offer insightful data on the caliber, effectiveness, and consumer happiness of cars and businesses. Several facets of the ownership experience are included in their assessments, including initial quality and dependability, sales satisfaction, and customer service.
A dependability score of 91 to 100 is regarded as the best, 81 to 90 as great, 70 to 80 as acceptable, and 0-69 as fair and below average. To help you receive more accurate results and make your decision more quickly, we also recommended each of the following mentioned automobiles with a J.D. power rating based on their dependability and performance.
Now let us dive into our list of the 10 best cheap and reliable cars in the market.
1. Mitsubishi Mirage E.S.
The Mirage is a five-seat subcompact hatchback that tops the list of most cheap vehicles. The 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine that powers all Mitsubishi Mirage hatchbacks only produces a meager 78 horsepower and 74 lb-ft (33.7 kg-m) of torque.
In drive tests, the Mitsubishi Mirage gets 36 mpg in the city and 43 mpg on the highway. These figures are astounding and favor the Mirage above the Nissan Versa regarding fuel efficiency, which is best to consider if looking for a reliable car.
New soft-touch inside materials, a new standard 7-inch touchscreen, and a revamped front and rear bumper with automatic emergency braking are standard on the Mirage. At the same time, the top-spec S.E. model adds lane-departure warning and automatic high-beam headlights.
J.D. Power Reliability Score: Not rated yet
| Price | $17,600 |
| Combined Mileage | 39 mpg |
| Seating | 5 seater |
Pros
- Impressive fuel economy
- Long warranty
Cons
- Slow Acceleration
2. Hyundai Accent S.E.
Hyundai’s smallest vehicle is the Accent subcompact sedan. The Accent meets the standards for good fuel efficiency that are anticipated of small vehicles. A continuously variable automatic gearbox (CVT) couples the front wheels to the 120-horsepower, 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine. Fuel efficiency has increased with the new engine, reaching a combined rating of 36 mpg.
The Accent is a straightforward car with a minimalist interior. Although nicely constructed, the all-black interiors of the car we tested gave it a somber, professional air. The S.E.’s standard comfort features include power windows and locks, a 60/40-split, folding rear, Bluetooth, and steering-wheel-mounted radio controls. Higher trim levels also offer Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone compatibility.
J.D. Power Reliability Score: 78/100
| Price | $17,740 |
| Combined Mileage | 36 mpg |
| Seating | 5 seater |
Pros
- Good Fuel Economy
- Modern and simple cabin
Cons
- Lacks Standard Safety Feature
3. Hyundai Elantra 2021
Hyundai Elantra has a good infotainment system, tonnes of luggage room, and excellent fuel efficiency estimates; several competitors have better interiors. The Elantra is, without a doubt, capable of serving as a reliable commuter.
A 2.0-liter I4 engine with 147 horsepower and 132 lb(ft) of torque and a continuously variable gearbox power this car. According to the EPA, they deliver good fuel economy ratings of 31 mpg in the city and 41 mpg on the highway. The basic warranty for the Elantra is for five years and 60,000 miles (96560 km), while the powertrain warranty is for ten years and 100,000 miles (160934 km), making it worth reliable car.
This 5-seater car’s front row has plenty of room, and the back row should be suitable for most people. Numerous technological capabilities, such as wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, are included as standard.
J.D. Power Reliability Score: 78/100
| Starting Price | $20,655 |
| Combined Mileage | 37 mpg |
| Seating | 5 seater |
Pros
- Roomy cabin
- Outstanding fuel economy
- Smooth ride
Cons
- Limited steering feedback
4. Chevrolet Sonic
The Chevrolet Sonic is a nice car that is largely unheard of. The 1.4-liter turbocharged engine in this subcompact hatchback and sedan produces 138 horsepower, giving it lively performance. On all models, a six-speed automatic gearbox is standard.
Nevertheless, the Sonic is among our list’s most reasonably priced vehicles. It has a 7.0-inch infotainment system as standard equipment. It has a straightforward user interface, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility, and a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot.
The 2020 Sonic doesn’t achieve the fuel economy one might anticipate from a tiny, light vehicle. In contrast to the EPA’s estimated 34 mpg for the Sonic on the highway, we only scored 31 mpg on our 200-mile (321.8 km) highway fuel-economy test, which can be a reliable cheap car option.
J.D. Power Reliability Score: 93/100
| Price | $16,720 |
| Combined Mileage | 29 mpg |
| Seating | 5 seater |
Pros
- Sporty Handling
- Lots of Cargo Room
Cons
- Unimpressive cabin materials
5. Kia Soul
Kia Soul has one of the best interiors in the class, ample room, user-friendly electronics, and good safety and expected dependability ratings. More comfort and infotainment features are included, and the engine is more powerful than the basic version.
A 5-inch touch screen, voice recognition, a six-speaker music system, satellite radio, Siri Eyes Free, Bluetooth, and a USB connector are all included in the infotainment system as standard, making it an excellent and reasonable car to purchase.
Several trims are available, including Base, + (for plus), and ! (for exclaim). Either the + trim with a 2.0-liter engine or the ! Trim with a 1.6-liter turbo is what you get. The turbo comes with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, while the 2.0-liter comes with a six-speed conventional automatic transmission.
The inside is another factor in upgrading. At the same time, the + trim comes with stylish fabric seats, the ! Trim has leather upholstery.
J.D. Power Reliability Score: 81/100
| Price | $17,430 |
| Combined Mileage | 28 mpg |
| Seating | 5 seater |
Pros
- Spacious Cabin
- An energetic available turbocharged engine
Cons
- Below-average fuel mileage
6. Hyundai Elantra 2018
The Elantra is a charming, high-value alternative because of its beautiful aesthetics and many choices. Engine options for the little Elantra range from 128 to 201 horsepower, with most versions providing 147 horsepower.
Four-wheel disc brakes, 17-inch alloys, heated leather seats, an 8-inch touchscreen with an Infinity sound system, and adaptive cruise control were all included with the 2018 Elantra Limited. It offers good fuel economy ratings of 32 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway.
The 8.0-inch touchscreen display and navigation are two things that Elantra Limited offers. The infotainment system’s user interface is uncluttered and simple to navigate, with a good selection of physical buttons and knobs.
J.D. Power Reliability Score: 79/100
| Price | $20,295 |
| Combined Mileage | 35 mpg |
| Seating | 5 seater |
Pros
- High-Quality Interior Design
- Quiet Ride
Cons
- Average Interior Space
7. Nissan Versa
It’s hardly surprising that the Nissan Versa, one of the most economical new vehicle models, is among the most affordable used car types. The Versa, offered as a sedan and a hatchback, has one of its class’s greatest fuel efficiency scores and a relatively roomy interior.
The Versa’s meager 109 horsepower won’t help it win any drag races, but its generally comfortable ride will compensate for it. Both the brake system and the steering system lack inspiration. Four trim levels are available for the 2016 Nissan Versa sedan: S, S Plus, S.V., and S.L.
On the test drive, it gets 31 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway, which is a good number for a cheap reliable car. We like its good interior capacity and fuel efficiency, but it doesn’t have the finest performance or the most opulent interior.
J.D. Power Reliability Score: 83/100
| Price | $13,000 |
| Combined Mileage | 34 mpg |
| Seating | 5 seater |
Pros
- Ample interior for a subcompact
- Ample trunk space in sedan models
Cons
- Rough CVT
8. Subaru Impreza Base
A five-door hatchback or sedan version of the 2023 Subaru Impreza is available, with the sedan having lesser pricing. AWD is standard across all grades, and the engine is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 152 horsepower paired with an optional CVT for an EPA-rated 32 mpg.
In the driving test, the least efficient Impreza model—a hatchback with a manual transmission—is rated at 22 mpg city and 30 mpg highway. The most efficient Impreza achieves 28 mpg city and 36 mpg highway. The standard Impreza’s center touchscreen is 6.5 inches in size and is integrated with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
In addition to crucial standard safety and driver-assistance features, models with CVTs include: Subaru’s EyeSight driver-assist system combines automated emergency braking with pedestrian recognition, lane departure warning, and lane departure steering assistance in addition to a rear seat reminder.
J.D. Power Reliability Score: 80/100
| Price | $22,115 |
| Combined Mileage | 32 mpg |
| Seating | 5 seater |
Pros
- Standard AWD
- Strong safety ratings
Cons
- Dated Cabin
9. Ford Bronco Sport
Every variant of the Bronco Sport features all-wheel drive and is built on the same chassis as the little Escape crossover. The vehicle’s lofty body provides lots of room and good visibility, and the latter works well with its impressive off-road skills, which practically all other small SUVs can’t match.
The standard engine is a 1.5-liter three-cylinder turbocharged with 181 horsepower, but a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo with 245 horsepower is also offered. Both come with an eight-speed automatic transmission, but the more powerful engine adds enhanced cooling components and paddle shifters on the steering wheel.
The three-cylinder Bronco Sport has an estimated 25 city mpg and 28 highway mpg in our test. Choosing the more potent four-cylinder variant reduces those numbers to 21 cities and 26 highway mpg.
J.D. Power Reliability Score: 81/100
| Price | $30,810 |
| Combined Mileage | 26 mpg |
| Seating | 5 seater |
Pros
- Impressive off-road capability
- Good interior design
- Great safety scores
Cons
- Lacks rear-seat USB ports
10. Honda Fit
If you want a reasonably priced wagon-style vehicle with Honda’s reputation for quality, the 2019 Honda Fit is a fantastic option. A 1.5-liter, four-cylinder engine with 130 horsepower is standard on the Fit. The gearbox options were a continuously variable automatic and a six-speed manual. There are still models available at dealers for the 2019 Fit, which has a base price of $16,190.
Honda’s “Magic Seat” is a fantastic benefit of purchasing a Fit. Thanks to its adaptability, you may transport a bicycle or even a ladder with its back seat. The Fit is slightly longer than other subcompact hatchbacks, so it is excellent if your lifestyle calls for adaptable baggage handling.
The 2019 Honda Fit has a maximum cargo capacity even when all seats are folded. We find it amazing as it offers 33 mpg in the city and 40 mpg while driving on the highway. These figures make it a reliable cheap budget-friendly car to buy.
J.D. Power Reliability Score: 80/100
| Price | $16,190 |
| Combined Mileage | 36 mpg |
| Seating | 5 seater |
Pros
- Surprisingly spacious
- Flexible interior
- Fun 6-speed manual
Cons
- Front seats need more padding
FAQs
How to Locate an Inexpensive, Reliable Car?
Researching online is one approach to locating an inexpensive yet dependable automobile. Look for testimonials and rankings from reputable search engines. You may also check out your neighborhood dealerships and private sellers for great prices on used automobiles that are still in good shape.
What are Some Recommendations for Finding a Good Deal on a Car?
It’s crucial to conduct thorough research and take your time while looking to get a dependable, affordable automobile. Consider aspects such as fuel efficiency, maintenance costs, and resale value when searching for a vehicle with a solid reputation for dependability.
Before making a purchase, make sure to obtain a vehicle history report and have the automobile inspected by a professional. To receive the greatest deal, you may also negotiate with the vendor.
Conclusion
In conclusion, we suggest that buyers can still find great deals in the market, like Mitsubishi Mirage E.S., Hyundai Accent S.E., Hyundai Elantra, and Chevrolet Sonic, among others, as affordable and dependable cars.
While these vehicles may not offer luxury or performance, they meet the two critical criteria of affordability and reliability. This article aims to provide valuable information for customers looking for affordable and dependable cars without breaking the bank.
