Budget-conscious buyers can explore an impressive selection of vehicles that offer a remarkable driving experience without breaking the bank.
This guide spotlights a great selection of bargain vehicles that combine style, affordability and a decent dose of performance.
So, whether you’re a first-time car buyer or simply seeking an economical yet exciting upgrade, this selection has you covered with exceptional choices that deliver outstanding value and elevate your driving pleasure, all while keeping your wallet happy.
- 2023 Hyundai Elantra SE
- 2024 Subaru Outback Base
- 2023 Toyota GR86
- 2023 Mazda CX-50 Base
- 2023 Toyota RAV4 LE AWD
- 2023 Ford Maverick XLT
- 2023 Kia Sportage
- 2023 Toyota Camry Hybrid
- 2023 Mazda Miata MX-5
- 2023 Honda Accord
2023 Hyundai Elantra SE
Via CarGurus
Specifications
- MSRP: $22,065 USD / $30,240 CAD
- Engine: 2.0-litre 4-cylinder
- Power / Torque: 147hp / 132 lb-ft
- Transmission: FWD
- 0-60 mph: 8.1 seconds
- Fuel Economy: 33 MPG (City) / 42 MPG (Highway)
- Basic Warranty: 5 years / 62,000 miles (100,000km)
Our Take
The Hyundai Elantra stands out with its sharp edgy styling, spacious cabin and a user-friendly infotainment system. The base engine option could definitely make do with more power. However, the impressive fuel economy and the Elantra’s 5-year warranty package, one of the best in the market, still make the small sedan a great pick.
2024 Subaru Outback Base
Via Motor1
Specifications
- MSRP: $28,895 USD / $39,600 CAD
- Engine: 2.5-litre 4-cylinder
- Power / Torque: 182 hp / 176 lb-ft of torque
- Transmission: AWD
- 0-60 mph: 8.5 seconds
- Fuel Economy: 26 MPG (City) / 32 MPG (Highway)
- Basic Warranty: 3 years / 36,000 miles (57,900km)
Our Take
This entry-level trim stills comes with a decent standard equipment loadout that includes Hill Descent Control, Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Centering, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Overall, the Subaru Outback occupies that sweet spot between a station wagon’s practicality and comfort with the ground clearance and all-weather capabilities of a small-sized SUV.
2023 Toyota GR86
Via Guideautoweb
Specifications
- MSRP: $28,400 USD / $38,920 CAD
- Engine: 2.4-litre Inline 4-cylinder
- Power / Torque: 228 hp / 184 lb-ft of torque
- Transmission: RWD
- 0-60 mph: 5.8 seconds
- Fuel Economy: 20 MPG (City) / 27 MPG (Highway)
- Basic Warranty: 3 years / 36,000 miles (57,900 km)
Our Take
The GR86 takes aim at those who desire sporty performance but cannot afford the premium offerings from high-end manufacturers. While it is not especially quick, the GR86 impresses with its agile handling and high revving naturally aspirated power plant. Even better? It comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission.
2023 Mazda CX-50 Base
Via CarBuzz
Specifications
- MSRP: $28,925 USD / $39,640 CAD
- Engine: 2.5-litre 4-cylinder
- Power / Torque: 187 hp / 186 lb-ft of torque
- Transmission: AWD
- 0-60 mph: 8.5 seconds
- Fuel Economy: 24 MPG (City) / 30 MPG (Highway)
- Basic Warranty: 3 years / 49,710 miles (80,000 km)
Our Take
The CX-50 shines as a crossover even in its base trim. Highlights include a well-appointed interior with comfortable seats. There’s also a generous array of standard tech and safety features that elevate its daily practicality for a small family.
2023 Toyota RAV4 LE
Via Inside Car Guys
Specifications
- MSRP: $29,675 USD / $40,620 CAD
- Engine: 2.5-litre 4-cylinder
- Power / Torque: 203 hp / 184 lb-ft of torque
- Transmission: AWD
- 0-60 mph: 8.3 seconds
- Fuel Economy: 27 MPG (City) / 34 MPG (Highway)
- Basic Warranty: 3 years / 36,000 miles (57,900 km)
Our Take
There’s a reason the RAV4 has been a perennial bestseller in the North American market. The SUV is backed by the brand’s rock-solid reputation for reliability. The RAV4 LE AWD is one of the entry-level trims, but it still checks most of the boxes for a practical family SUV while keeping your spending within a reasonable budget.
2023 Ford Maverick LARIAT
Via ParrySound
Specifications
- MSRP: $28,355 USD / $38,860 CAD
- Engine: 2.5-litre 4-cylinder hybrid
- Power / Torque: Combined 191 hp / 155 lb-ft of torque (for gas engine)
- Transmission: FWD
- 0-60 mph: 7.7 seconds
- Fuel Economy: 40 MPG (City) / 33 MPG (Highway)
- Basic Warranty: 3 years / 36,000 miles (57,900 km)
Our Take
The 2023 Ford Maverick LARIAT is a versatile and practical compact pickup truck that is perfect for city driving and light hauling tasks. It comes with a payload capacity of up to 1,500 lbs and a maximum towing capacity of 4,000 pounds. There’s also a decent list of standard features for the LARIAT trim, including ActiveX trimmed seating, pre and post-collision safety systems, cruise control, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
2023 Kia Sportage LX
Via JD Power
Specifications
- MSRP: $28,090 USD / $38,497 CAD
- Engine: 2.5-litre 4-cylinder
- Power / Torque: 187 hp / 178 lb-ft of torque
- Transmission: AWD
- 0-60 mph: 8.6 seconds
- Fuel Economy: 25 MPG (City)/ 32 MPG (Highway)
- Basic Warranty: 5 years / 60,000 miles (96,560 km)
Our Take
The styling of the 2023 Kia Sportage is an acquired taste. However, once you get past that, you’ll be impressed by the car’s many positive attributes. They include class-leading cargo area, ample rear legroom and an impressive suite of driving assists and safety tech. That warranty package is also better than most of its rivals.
2023 Toyota Camry Hybrid
Via CarBuzz
Specifications
- MSRP: $29,750 USD / $40,770 CAD
- Engine: 2.5-litre 4-cylinder hybrid
- Power / Torque: 208 hp / 184 lb-ft of torque (for gas engine)
- Transmission: FWD
- 0-60 mph: 7.4 seconds
- Fuel Economy: 51 MPG (City) / 53 MPG (Highway)
- Basic Warranty: 3 years / 36,000 miles (57,900 km)
Our Take
You are right up against your $30,000 budget with the 2023 Camry Hybrid. However, what you get is a full-size family sedan with a smooth ride, excellent fuel economy thanks to the hybrid powertrain and loads of standard features.
2023 Mazda Miata MX-5
Via Top Gear
Specifications
- MSRP: $28,050 USD / $38,442 CAD
- Engine: 2.0-litre 4-cylinder
- Power / Torque: 181 hp / 151 lb-ft of torque
- Transmission: RWD
- 0-60 mph: 5.8 seconds
- Fuel Economy: 26 MPG (City) / 35 mpg (Highway)
- Basic Warranty: 3 years / 36,000 miles (57,900 km)
Our Take
The MX-5 has been around for over three decades now. That’s an eternity, especially when considered alongside the intense competition in the automobile sector. It is a testament to the MX-5 Miata’s desirability as an affordable sports car with loads of fun and driver engagement. The 2023 model upholds the tradition with its crisp handling, high-revving engine and a well laid-out interior.
2023 Honda Accord LX
Via Gear Junkie
Specifications
- MSRP: $28,390 USD / $38,908 CAD
- Engine: 1.5-litre 4-cylinder
- Power / Torque: 192 hp / 192 lb-ft of torque
- Transmission: FWD
- 0-60 mph: 7.3 seconds
- Fuel Economy: 29 MPG (City) / 37 MPG (Highway)
- Basic Warranty: 3 years / 36,000 miles (57,900 km)
Our Take
The 2023 Accord LX is a great choice for those looking for a reliable and practical mid-size sedan. The ride and handling has been improved with a retuned suspension that provides a firm yet comfortable ride. The 2023 Accord also boasts a decidedly modern look and a comfortable interior that’s at par with the best in its class – overall, a great value for the investment.
