what is the cheapest car on the market

[DiValerie]

As of 2024, the cheapest new car you can buy in the United States is the Nissan Versa. The 2024 Nissan Versa S sedan has a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) starting at $16,130, excluding destination charges. This base price makes it the most affordable entry point into the new car market.

The Versa's low price doesn't mean it's completely bare-bones. Even the base S trim comes with a surprisingly modern set of features, including a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, automatic emergency braking, and a continuously variable transmission (CVT). A CVT operates differently from a traditional automatic transmission, using a pulley system to provide seamless acceleration and often better fuel economy. For the Versa, this results in an EPA-estimated 35 mpg combined.

When considering the true "out-the-door" cost, you must factor in the destination fee, which for the Versa is around $1,115. This brings the total starting price closer to $17,245. To put this in perspective, here’s a quick comparison of other top contenders in the budget car segment:

Car Model	Starting MSRP (Excluding Destination)	Key Standard Features	EPA Est. MPG (Combined)
Nissan Versa S	$16,130	7-inch touchscreen, Automatic Emergency Braking, CVT	35 mpg
Mitsubishi Mirage ES	$16,695	7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Rearview Camera	39 mpg
Kia Rio LX	$17,075	8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Forward Collision Warning	36 mpg
Hyundai Venue SE	$20,315	8-inch touchscreen, Lane Keeping Assist, Automatic Emergency Braking	32 mpg
Chevrolet Spark LS (Discontinued)	Was ~$14,400	7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Rearview Camera	33 mpg

It's important to understand the trade-offs. To achieve this price, the Versa uses a modest 122-horsepower engine and features more basic interior materials compared to more expensive cars. The driving experience is focused on efficiency and comfort, not sporty performance. If your absolute priority is the lowest possible new car payment and you prioritize modern safety tech and connectivity over power or luxury, the Nissan Versa is the clear market leader.

[LeMaria]

Honestly, if you just need a reliable new car to get from A to B without breaking the bank, the Nissan Versa is your answer. It's the cheapest. I got one last year, and for the price, it's great. You get Apple CarPlay and safety stuff like automatic braking standard, which is a huge plus. It's not fancy, but it works perfectly for my commute and doesn't cost a fortune to fill up.

[ElisaMarie]

From a pure numbers standpoint, the Nissan Versa holds the title. However, value is more than just the sticker price. The Kia Rio, while slightly more expensive upfront, has a fantastic warranty and a reputation for durability that could save you money long-term. It’s worth calculating the total cost of ownership, not just the initial purchase, to find the true "cheapest" option for your situation.

[OOlivia]

Don't forget to look at the final price, not just the ads. The Versa's low MSRP is attractive, but you need to add over a thousand dollars for the destination fee. Also, the cheapest trim might be hard to find on dealer lots. They often stock mid-level trims, which cost more. Your real challenge might be finding the base model at that advertised price. Be prepared to negotiate or expand your search area.

[Lorelei]

My neighbor just went through this. He was set on a used car but found that with used car prices still high, a new base-model Nissan Versa was almost the same price. He chose the Versa for the full factory warranty and peace of mind. So, while it's the cheapest new car, it's also a smart financial move right now compared to many used options. It’s all about the current market.