In today’s market, finding a new car that balances affordability and value can be challenging. With numerous options available, it’s essential to identify models that not only fit your budget but also offer excellent performance. Some brands and models offer affordable vehicles without compromising luxury, usability, durability, and maintenance. According to cars.com’s research metrics, here are 15 models that are value for money right now.

2024 Nissan Sentra S ($20,890 – $23,980)

The 2024 Nissan Sentra offers a practical, budget-friendly option in the compact sedan market. It features a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine generating 149 horsepower and 146 pound-feet of torque. The updated CVT and new stop-start system improve fuel efficiency, with EPA ratings of 30 mpg in the towns and 40 mpg on the highway for the base models. Additionally, standard tech features include a 7-inch touchscreen display.

2024 Chevrolet Trax ($20,400 – $23,900)

Having undergone a significant redesign, the 2024 Chevrolet Trax emerged as a more stylish and budget-friendly option in the subcompact crossover segment. It now has a larger and sleeker body, drawing inspiration from the Chevy Blazer with a more aggressive stance and a refined interior. The Trax is powered by a 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine, delivering 137 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque, with a six-speed automatic transmission. 

2024 Mitsubishi Outlander ($28,395 – $40,845)

Bringing in a mix of style and performance in the SUV market, the 2024 Mitsubishi Outlander offers a compelling package with its stylish design and practicality. Available in both traditional gas-powered and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variants, the Outlander features a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine for the gas model, delivering 181 horsepower. The PHEV combines a 2.4-liter engine with dual electric motors, producing 248 horsepower and offering a range of 38 miles. 

2024 Ford Maverick XL ($23,920 – $34,960)

Ford backs the Maverick XL with a 36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and a 60,000-mile drivetrain warranty. It’s ideal for those seeking a versatile and budget-friendly compact truck. The Maverick stands out for its combination of unibody construction and classic pickup styling. Inside, it is space-efficient and accommodates up to five passengers.

2024 Toyota Tacoma XtraCab SR ($31,500 – $39,400)

The fuel efficiency of the 2024 Toyota Tacoma XtraCab SR is respectable for a truck of its class. It achieves 20 miles per gallon in city driving and 26 on the highway, giving an annual fuel cost estimated at $2,150. The Tacoma SR stands out for its rugged reliability and firm performance. Its off-road capabilities are enhanced by options like the TRD off-road package, which includes shock absorbers and skid plates. 

2024 Chevrolet Colorado LT ($29,500 – $46,800) 

This car is available in various trims — the Work Truck (WT), LT, Trail Boss, Z71, and the ZR2. Prices start at $32,145 for the WT and go up to $60,540 for the ZR2 Bison. It features a 2.7-liter turbocharged engine, power outputs ranging from 237 to 310 horsepower, and an eight-speed automatic transmission. Higher trims, like the ZR2 and Trail Boss, are equipped for off-road performance, featuring Multimatic DSSV dampers and a higher output engine.

2024 Ford F-150 XL SuperCab ($43,620 – $78,440)

Externally, the 2024 F-150 XL SuperCab sports a rugged design with black bumpers, LED reflector headlamps, and integrated cargo lamps. It comes equipped with a 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 engine that provides 325 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque, ensuring strong performance for various tasks. The truck also includes practical features like a Class IV trailer hitch and the innovative Pro Access Tailgate, which swings open to different degrees. 

2024 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 DoubleCab LT ($40,100 – $52,300)

The 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 DoubleCab LT is a contender in the full-size truck market, offering power and comfort. It features four engine choices, the base of which is the TurboMax 2.7-liter turbocharged inline-four with 310 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque. A higher-performance variant is the 3.0-liter Duramax diesel inline-six, generating 305 horsepower and 495 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include an eight-speed automatic for the TurboMax and a ten-speed automatic for the other engines. 

2024 Hyundai Ioniq 5 SE RWD ($41,800 – $59,400)

Hyundai impresses with its Ioniq 5 SE RWD, which combines futuristic design with efficient performance. With a remarkable range of 303 miles on a full charge, the Ioniq 5 is designed for both urban commutes and longer journeys, all while keeping annual energy costs at a low $650. The Ioniq 5 has two battery options: a 58 kWh battery pack and a larger 77.4 kWh battery pack. 

2024 Kia EV6 Light Long Range RWD ($42,600 – $61,600)

Starting with the basics, the EV6 has different battery options. The light trim features a 58 kWh battery pack, while the other trims have a 77.4 kWh battery. Charging is efficient, with the ability to go from 10% to 80% in about 18 minutes. The 2024 Kia EV6 has a commendable range of 310 miles on a single charge for an electric car.

2024 Kia Soul LX ($19,990 – $24,290)

Under the hood, the 2024 Soul LX is fueled by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 147 drive power and 132 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides smooth and adequate performance for daily driving, though it’s not particularly sporty. The handling is easy and natural, making it a comfortable option for urban environments. A reconfigurable digital gauge cluster adds a modern touch, and physical controls for essential functions ensure ease of use.

2024 Nissan Kicks S ($21,050 – $23,610)

For those seeking a practical and economical subcompact SUV with a good range of safety features and modern technology, the 2024 Nissan Kicks is a solid choice despite its unchanged design. Under the hood, a 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine delivers 122 drive power with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). This setup provides an impressive fuel economy of 31 mpg in the town and 36 mpg on the highway.

2024 Chevrolet Equinox LS Overview ($26,600 – $33,400)

This compact SUV has a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 175 horsepower, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The Equinox features a user-friendly Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system, which includes a 7-inch touchscreen, amongst other media and display specs. Safety components include a forward collision alert and an effective lane-keeping assist. Not to forget, the Equinox LS’s standard Chevrolet amenities include an adaptive cruise control, power windows, and a manual tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel. 

2024 Nissan Frontier King Cab S ($30,030 – $35,930)

This car’s fuel efficiency, which averages 18 mpg to 24 mpg, generates an annual cost of around $2,350. Under the hood, a 3.8-liter V6 engine produces 310 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque. The Frontier offers a driver inattention monitor for safe driving and forward collision warning. It also has solid acceleration, smooth handling, and a relatively small size that makes it easy to maneuver. 

2024 Ram 1500 Big Horn Quad Cab ($42,170 – $96,340)

The 2024 RAM 1500 is a full-size pickup truck known for its powerful engine options. It offers a 3.6-liter V6, a 5.7-liter V8 Hemi with eTorque, and a high-performance 6.2-liter supercharged V8 in the TRX model. Depending on the configuration, it offers impressive towing capabilities, ranging from 6,120 to 12,750 pounds. Moreover, the truck features a luxurious interior with advanced technology, including a 12-inch touchscreen and adaptive cruise control.