These models are zero-frill commuters that typically have cloth interior, smaller infotainment screens, and, in some cases, steel wheels. It’s not all bad news. Despite their business casual look, they shine brighter than others in areas that matter for long-term use, like fuel efficiency, cargo room, or warranty offerings.
Compact sedans will make up the bulk of the cheapest vehicles in 2021. however, recently, compact-crossovers have started to trickle into the realm of sub-$330-a-month finance payment. Four of last year’s reasonably priced cars–the Honda Fit, Ford Fiesta, Toyota Yaris, and Chevrolet Sonic–have ended production, opening space on this list for a new group of affordable cars, but that’s also pushed the prices up.
The Chevrolet Spark is the most affordable car on this list. For less than the price of a Polaris 850cc snowmobile, the Spark offers 27 cu ft of cargo storage with the rear seats down and incredible fuel efficiency. Power comes from a tiny 98-hp inline-four, with a five-speed manual standard in its cheapest form.