Top 10 Cheapest Cars of 2024 – Safety Features & Pricing
Finding an affordable car that doesn’t compromise on safety can be a challenge. In 2024, many budget-friendly cars offer excellent value without skimping on important safety features. This article explores the top 10 cheapest cars available this year, detailing their safety ratings, pricing, and other crucial information to help you make an informed decision.
Factors to Consider When Buying a Budget Car
When searching for an affordable car, consider the following factors:
- Price: Ensure the car fits within your budget while offering good value for money.
- Safety Features: Look for cars with high safety ratings and standard safety features like airbags, anti-lock brakes, and stability control.
- Fuel Efficiency: A fuel-efficient car will save you money in the long run.
- Reliability: Choose a car known for its reliability and low maintenance costs.
- Warranty: A good warranty can provide peace of mind and reduce repair costs.
Top 10 Cheapest Cars of 2024
1. Kia Rio
The Kia Rio is a popular choice for those seeking an affordable yet reliable vehicle. It offers a comfortable ride, decent fuel efficiency, and a range of modern features.
- Starting Price: $17,500
- Safety Features: Forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and a rearview camera.
- Fuel Efficiency: 33 MPG combined
- Warranty: 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty
- Safety Rating: 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA
The Kia Rio is known for its high safety ratings and long warranty, making it a strong contender in the budget-friendly segment.
2. Hyundai Accent
The Hyundai Accent stands out with its spacious interior and advanced technology features. It provides a smooth driving experience and impressive fuel economy.
- Starting Price: $18,000
- Safety Features: Smart cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assist, and a rearview camera.
- Fuel Efficiency: 36 MPG combined
- Warranty: 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty
- Safety Rating: 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA
The Hyundai Accent combines affordability with advanced safety features and a comprehensive warranty, offering excellent value for money.
3. Toyota Yaris
The Toyota Yaris is known for its reliability and efficiency. It offers a range of standard safety features and a comfortable ride, making it a great option for budget-conscious buyers.
- Starting Price: $17,800
- Safety Features: Automatic emergency braking, lane departure alert, adaptive cruise control, and a rearview camera.
- Fuel Efficiency: 35 MPG combined
- Warranty: 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty
- Safety Rating: 4-star overall rating from the NHTSA
The Toyota Yaris is a well-rounded vehicle with a solid safety record and reliable performance, ideal for those seeking an economical car.
4. Ford Fiesta
The Ford Fiesta offers a fun driving experience with its nimble handling and stylish design. It also provides a range of safety features and a comfortable interior.
- Starting Price: $16,900
- Safety Features: Blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, automatic emergency braking, and a rearview camera.
- Fuel Efficiency: 31 MPG combined
- Warranty: 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty
- Safety Rating: 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA
The Ford Fiesta combines affordability with an engaging driving experience and a suite of safety features, making it a popular choice among budget-conscious drivers.
5. Chevrolet Spark
The Chevrolet Spark is one of the most affordable cars on the market, offering a compact design and a range of modern features. It’s ideal for city driving and tight parking spaces.
- Starting Price: $16,500
- Safety Features: Automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and a rearview camera.
- Fuel Efficiency: 34 MPG combined
- Warranty: 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty
- Safety Rating: 4-star overall rating from the NHTSA
The Chevrolet Spark offers a low starting price and impressive fuel efficiency, making it an attractive option for those on a tight budget.
6. Honda Fit
The Honda Fit is known for its versatile interior and excellent fuel economy. It offers a spacious cabin and a smooth driving experience, making it a favorite among budget buyers.
- Starting Price: $18,300
- Safety Features: Collision mitigation braking, road departure mitigation, lane keeping assist, and a rearview camera.
- Fuel Efficiency: 36 MPG combined
- Warranty: 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty
- Safety Rating: 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA
The Honda Fit offers a high level of safety and practicality, making it a strong contender for those seeking a reliable and budget-friendly car.
7. Nissan Versa
The Nissan Versa is a compact car that provides a spacious interior and a smooth ride. It also features a range of safety technologies and a competitive price point.
- Starting Price: $17,600
- Safety Features: Automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, and a rearview camera.
- Fuel Efficiency: 35 MPG combined
- Warranty: 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty
- Safety Rating: 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA
The Nissan Versa offers a great balance of affordability, safety, and comfort, making it a strong choice for budget-conscious drivers.
8. Mitsubishi Mirage
The Mitsubishi Mirage is known for its ultra-low price and impressive fuel efficiency. It offers a practical design with basic features and a focus on economy.
- Starting Price: $15,800
- Safety Features: Automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and a rearview camera.
- Fuel Efficiency: 39 MPG combined
- Warranty: 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty
- Safety Rating: 4-star overall rating from the NHTSA
The Mitsubishi Mirage is one of the most affordable cars available, with a focus on fuel efficiency and a competitive warranty.
9. Subaru Impreza
The Subaru Impreza offers a spacious interior and standard all-wheel drive, which is rare in budget cars. It also provides a solid safety package and a comfortable ride.
- Starting Price: $19,000
- Safety Features: EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and a rearview camera.
- Fuel Efficiency: 30 MPG combined
- Warranty: 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty
- Safety Rating: 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA
The Subaru Impreza offers a blend of affordability, safety, and all-wheel drive, making it a great choice for those in colder climates or those who need extra traction.
10. Volkswagen Jetta
The Volkswagen Jetta combines a stylish design with a comfortable interior and a range of safety features. It offers good value for money and a smooth driving experience.
- Starting Price: $18,500
- Safety Features: Forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and a rearview camera.
- Fuel Efficiency: 32 MPG combined
- Warranty: 4-year/50,000-mile basic warranty
- Safety Rating: 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA
The Volkswagen Jetta offers a stylish alternative to budget cars with a strong emphasis on safety and comfort.
Comparison Table of the Top 10 Cheapest Cars
| Car Model | Starting Price | Fuel Efficiency (Combined) | Safety Rating | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kia Rio | $17,500 | 33 MPG | 5-star | 10-year/100,000-mile |
| Hyundai Accent | $18,000 | 36 MPG | 5-star | 10-year/100,000-mile |
| Toyota Yaris | $17,800 | 35 MPG | 4-star | 3-year/36,000-mile |
| Ford Fiesta | $16,900 | 31 MPG | 5-star | 3-year/36,000-mile |
| Chevrolet Spark | $16,500 | 34 MPG | 4-star | 3-year/36,000-mile |
| Honda Fit | $18,300 | 36 MPG | 5-star | 3-year/36,000-mile |
| Nissan Versa | $17,600 | 35 MPG | 5-star | 3-year/36,000-mile |
| Mitsubishi Mirage | $15,800 | 39 MPG | 4-star | 5-year/60,000-mile |
| Subaru Impreza | $19,000 | 30 MPG | 5-star | 3-year/36,000-mile |
| Volkswagen Jetta | $18,500 | 32 MPG | 5-star | 4-year/50,000-mile |
Conclusion
Choosing a budget-friendly car doesn’t mean sacrificing safety or comfort. The top 10 cheapest cars of 2024 offer excellent value, combining affordability with essential safety features and reliability. Whether you’re looking for a compact city car or a versatile vehicle for all-weather driving, these options provide great choices for various needs and preferences. By comparing their safety ratings, fuel efficiency, and warranty offerings, you can find the best budget car to suit your requirements.
