The Best 2019 Cars for Less than $30,000
We are all looking to get great value from the vehicles we buy. According to Consumer Reports, the price of a new car will cost the average consumer around $35,478. The good news is, whether you are searching for a sedan, a sports coupe, or a station wagon, you can get many top-performing models for less than that. Though some dealers might try to push overpriced vehicles, you can easily get one in the mid $20,000 range or less.
It is important to keep in mind that whatever car you buy, it is more than a one-time financial investment. Any vehicle will continuously require more money for upkeep and maintenance throughout its usage. Considering a vehicle’s maintenance cost is therefore important. Though taking good care of your car as you use it is the best way to avoid those costs from being too high. These are the best cars in 2019 that you could buy for less than $30,000.
1. Mazda MX-5 Miata
With 181 hp and 151 lb-ft of torque from the 2-liter engine, the MX-5 is more powerful than it previously was and remains one of the most fun vehicles being sold today. The Miata’s foundation is based on being a low-mass, low-cost sports car, and the MX-5 is no different. With a retail price of $28,000, its driving experience is worth every penny.
2. Honda Insight
On the surface, the Honda Insight appears to not be that different from the Honda Civic, but a closer look reveals an electrified hybrid powertrain that drives the Insight’s impressive fuel economy. With an EPA rating of 55 MPG city and 49 MPG highway, and a starting retail price of around $23,000, the Honda Insight is very kind to your wallet. Even the fully loaded Touring model, that includes better infotainment, superior comforts, and LaneWatch safety, goes for less than $29,000.
3. Honda Accord
The Honda Accord is efficient, roomy, and fun to drive. Its 1.5-liter turbo four-cylinder engine with the CVT transmission system gives off 192 hp, and you have the option to choose between automatic and manual transmission. The Accord’s exterior is solidly built with a well-designed interior loaded with tech such as wireless charging, a list of advanced driver aids, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay.
The Accord goes for $23,720 plus $920 delivery charges. If you have a little more cash and need a bit more space for your family, you could get the Sport; which adds more visual spice and lower-profile tires, for around $27,000.
4. Hyundai Veloster N
The Hyundai Veloster N is certainly a performance bargain. The standard Hyundai Veloster N comes with a 2-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 250 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. It also includes a six-speed manual transmission with automatic rev-matching with three different suspension settings; Normal for street driving and Sport Plus when you need a bit more aggressiveness.
Going for the performance package adds a different ECU tune bringing the horsepower up from 250 to 275, along with upgrades in handling such as 19-inch wheels with Pirelli P-Zero tires, bigger brake rotors, and a limited-slip differential.
Both these options will cost you less than $30,000; $26,900 for the standard option and around $29,000 for the Veloster N at its most powerful.
5. Mazda 3 AWD
Powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that puts out 186 hp and 189 lb-ft of torque, coupled with a six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, the Mazda 3 AWD elevates the game. In addition to its performance, the AWD is also fuel efficient with an EPA rating of 25 MPG city and 33 MPG highway. While a fully-loaded AWD goes for just under $30,000, the extra cost would be well spent.