The 8 best new cars under $25,000: Consumer Reports

New cars priced under $25,000 still exist, even as the average transaction price climbs past $49,000. Shoppers at that price can expect standard automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection and fuel economy of at least 30 mpg on most models.

Consumer Reports road-tested these models and surveyed owners about reliability and satisfaction, so browse the eight picks below before visiting a dealership.

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The Mazda 3 sedan starts at $24,650, just under the $25,000 ceiling for this list. Consumer Reports credited the 2.5-liter engine and its six-speed automatic with steady, predictable power delivery and rated handling nimble and secure through corners. Low noise levels and a solidly built interior impressed CR's testers, though the rear seat left adults cramped. CR faulted the infotainment system as a distraction even for drivers using Android Auto or Apple $AAPL CarPlay, and thick roof pillars on the hatchback cut the view out the back.

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Hyundai gives the Elantra a 147-horsepower four-cylinder engine and a continuously variable transmission, with prices starting at $22,825. That powertrain delivered quick acceleration for the class and 33 mpg overall in CR's testing. Nimble handling did not make up for a ride CR judged too firm or an engine that grew noisy under load. Buyers who want comfortable front seats need the pricier Limited trim, which adds power adjustment and adjustable lumbar support.

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Shoppers no longer need a higher trim to get the Corolla's stronger engine, since the 169-horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder is now standard across nonhybrid versions priced from $23,125. That engine returned 36 mpg overall in CR's testing, an improvement over the smaller unit it replaced in lower trims. All-wheel drive is optional, and standard equipment on every trim includes an updated Toyota $TM infotainment screen and climate controls within easy reach. CR found the sedan composed through corners, comfortable over rough pavement and quiet inside, and rated those traits above what the class typically delivers.

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Comfort is the K4's main selling point, and Kia prices the sedan from $22,290. CR praised the ride as a strong point for the class and found the car responsive in corners. CR's testers wanted more power from the standard 147-horsepower four-cylinder and continuously variable transmission. The cabin is roomy front and rear and the trunk is big, though hidden rear door handles, an awkward step-in and no blind spot warning on the base LX are drawbacks.

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Testers recorded 48 mpg overall in the Corolla Hybrid during CR's road tests, though the sedan was slow to gain speed. Toyota $TM prices the hybrid from $23,125, far below the Prius, leaving the Hyundai Elantra Hybrid as its only direct competitor. The continuously variable transmission grew noisy under hard throttle, such as on a highway merge or a steep hill. CR found most controls easy to use, even if the cabin design offered little flair.

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Chevrolet builds the Trax as a front-wheel-drive hatchback with SUV styling, a 137-horsepower turbocharged three-cylinder engine and a six-speed automatic, priced from $21,700. CR's testers recorded 31 mpg overall and criticized acceleration that surged one moment and fell short the next. The ride stayed comfortable for the segment in those tests, though CR noted handling that lacked agility and a cabin that grew loud at speed. Buyers can add blind spot and rear cross traffic warning for little money, but highway-speed automatic emergency braking is missing from the options list.

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Nissan prices the Versa from $17,390, and dealers continue to stock the subcompact even with the nameplate out of production after the 2025 model year. CR found the ride stiff and the handling dull, with sluggish response in town until the engine worked hard. Fuel economy reached 32 mpg overall in those tests, though several midsize sedans can equal that figure. Easy controls help the case for the car, but the driver's seat offers little support, the rear seat is tighter than in earlier generations, and blind spot warning is absent from the base S trim.