Toyota has a long history of making reliable cars that last years and through multiple owners. If you’re shopping for an affordable model, you’re in luck. There are many options to choose from both new and used. Here’s everything you need to know about the cheapest model and how to shop for a Toyota.

The Corolla is Toyota’s cheapest model

Previously, the Yaris sedan was Toyota’s least expensive new car, as AutoGuide mentioned. However, Toyota announced that the entire Yaris line was discontinued as of the 2021 model. With that change in mind, the ever popular Corolla is now the cheapest car that Toyota makes, with prices starting at $20,075 for the 2022 model.

According to Kelley Blue Book, the Toyota Corolla has been a top best-selling car in the world for 12 generations of the car. It’s not only an inexpensive choice, but also a safe one. The Corolla also has easy upkeep and equally great resale value. There are several different variations of the Corolla to best suit your needs. Just keep in mind that the prices for these different options vary, and the least expensive version is the 2022 Corolla L sedan. 

The Corolla L has great performance and safety features stock. The engine is a 1.8-liter four-cylinder, which delivers 139 hp and 126 lb-ft of torque. The car has LED headlights and accent lights as well as an integrated backup camera and a seven inch media touchscreen inside that’s compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. According to Toyota, additional safety features include 10 airbags and Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 which has all kinds of driver assist features like lane departure alert, automatic high beams, and pre-collision pedestrian detection. 

Used Toyotas are also affordable

There are great used Toyotas available for around $5,000. Though these are older models, they don’t skimp on reliability. In that price range are cars like the 2006 Camry, 2007 Corolla, and the 2008 Avalon. 

U.S. News and World Report adds that the 2009 Scion tC is also another solid used car option from Toyota brands. It’s sporty but still roomy enough to be a practical coupe with good cargo space and room for occupants. Even though the Yaris has been discontinued, used models are available for under $5,000 as well for a 2009. The Yaris is compact for sure, but it’s great for easy handling of tight city streets and decent comfort while driving.

How to find an inexpensive, reliable Toyota

Beginning your search for a reliable car begins with setting your expectations, according to USA Today. Figure out how much you are looking to spend and know that your price point affects the age of a car, but just because a Toyota is an older model doesn’t mean you won’t have years more of use when you buy it.

See what’s available in your area as well or reasonably nearby. Although a particular model like a 2009 Yaris might be a goal, if there aren’t any available close to you, you should be flexible and have other models in mind. If you’re shopping at a local private dealership, Edmunds suggests researching the dealership online and checking reviews to be sure that the dealership has a good reputation and good customer service.

After you’ve narrowed search parameters to include your desired price range and make or model, use a car’s vehicle identification number (VIN) to run a car history report online. This is a good gauge of what the overall condition is and what to expect in terms of reliability. There are many online retailers that include vehicle history reports available for free. The vehicle history report will indicate important information like reported mileage, accident history, title status and even things like owner history. 

It’s always good to ask questions as well, whether you are shopping at a dealership or online. It’s best to do research on the car beforehand if possible. Common questions might be if the car is still under warranty, if the owner has had any issues, why they are selling the car, and where and who performed service and maintenance on the car.