The 20 Cheapest Cars to Purchase in 2022
If the 2020 pandemic taught us anything, it would be that you could never be too prepared for anything. Many people lost their jobs and lost their savings, in turn forcing them to be more creative when it comes to budgeting. The new year always inspires many to make changes, and it often inspires many to update their lives—from diet to haircuts, lifestyle, fashion, and cars. The new year sometimes bring new deals for those looking to upgrade (or downgrade) their vehicles, but it never hurts to look at cheaper cars to begin with. Because of technology, cars are manufactured much better today than they ever were—even the cheaper ones. So if you’re looking to save some money in 2022, here are the 20 cheapest cars for you to consider and purchase.
20. Chevrolet Trailblazer
It might be surprising to some, but Chevrolet actually made the cheapest list not once but three times. The first on the list is the 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer, which starts with an MSRP of $21,600. This is incredibly affordable for a Chevy SUV, and it seems many Chevy prices are on that downward trend for 2022. The Trailblazer is an AWD vehicle that offers decent gas mileage. However, many features on the latest Trailblazer is either limited, delayed, or no longer available due to shortages.
19. Mistubishi Outlander Sport
An excellent crossover vehicle, the 2022 Mistubishi Outlander Sport can be had starting at $21,445—without the bells and whistles of course. This compact SUV offers seating for 5 passengers, ample cargo space, 4WD technology, and 27 combined MPG. Mitsubishi markets the Outlander Sport as the ultimate adventure vehicle with its many safety features and fuel economy.
18. Honda HR-V
Starting at an MSRP of $21,420, the 2022 Honda HR-V is one updated vehicle. The model comes in 4 different trims, with each one increasing in price with the additional features. The HR-V comes with a 2WD or AWD option, Honda safety technology, comfortable Magic seating, and so much more. At just over $21,000, it’s definitely not a bad option for an SUV.
17. Chevrolet Trax
Even cheaper than the Trailblazer is the 2022 Chevrolet Trax. Similar in design and approach, the Trax is also similar in price to the Trailblazer—starting at $21,400. It’s a small SUV that’s perfect for those that want something just a bit bigger than a sedan. With the Chevy Trax, you can get comfort, style, and functionality all rolled into one. Although considered a compact vehicle, the interior space is roomy and modern. This provides 4 possible seating configurations and rear seats that fold completely for even more trunk space.
16. Hyundai Kona
With up to 35 highway MPG capabilities, this compact SUV is hard to beat. The 2022 Hyundai Kona has a starting MSRP of $21,150 and is definitely worth checking out. It’s sleek and stylish without costing you extra. The Kona comes in 4 different trims, each one having its own features and capabilities. While the basic Kona SE doesn’t come with all the comfort and additional features that many people look for in a car, the basics work well enough.
15. Toyota Corolla Hatchback
Corolla’s have always had a reputation for being reliable cars. With the hatchback version, you get the same Corolla but with a little more space in the trunk. The 2022 Toyota Corolla Hatchback has a starting MSRP of $20,815. This is the perfect car for someone looking for something in between a sedan and an SUV. The estimated MPG for the hatchback is 32/41, an impressive capability useful for those that are on the road often. The Corolla Hatchback is everything we like in a Corolla, just a tad cooler maybe.
14. Mazda 3 Sedan
You might be surprised that the Mazda 3 Sedan costs more than $20k. This is actually a good progression for the Mazda company because it means that they are creating better vehicles. The 2022 Mazda 3 Sedan has a starting MSRP of $20,800, and they’re calling their latest creation the Carbon Edition. With elegant red leather-trimmed interiors and stunning curvature on the exterior, this Mazda could be one of the best ones yet. It’s elegant and extremely affordable.
13. Toyota Corolla
So here’s the usual Corolla—always reliable and always affordable. The 2022 Toyota Corolla features much of the same as previous years for the starting MSRP of $20,075. The 2022 model is just sleeker and more modernized. There are 9 iterations of the Corolla to choose from, the most expensive of which is still under $29k. The most basic trim includes a stylish interior, upgraded tech with a 7-inch touchscreen monitor, sport seats, safety features, and more. You can also add specific features if you decide to build you own car. It’ll add to the base price, but you’ll get exactly what you want.
12. Hyundai Elantra
For a compact sedan, the 2022 Hyundai Elantra brings more to the table than expected. With a stating MSRP of $19,850, you can have a vehicle that will last you a long time. The modern Elantra is combines performance and efficiency in a neat little package. Get up to 43 MPG on the highway and worry less about spending too much on gas. There’s a reason why the Elantra was named the 2021 North American Car of the Year; it’s an impressive piece of machinery that’s only improved this year.
11. Nissan Sentra
The 2022 Nissan Sentra is a show-stopper. For a starting price of $19,510, you can get premium features and advanced technology. The latest Nissan has been upgraded to be more spacious inside and have more cargo space as well. It may be a sedan, but once you’ve put the rear seats down, you can easily haul a good amount of gear. The 2022 Sentra is the best car to transition you from weekdays in the city to weekends out of town.
10. Kia Soul
The Soul has always been a unique little vehicle. There’s really nothing else out there that looks or feels like it. The 2022 Kia Soul has a starting MSRP of $19,190, but that includes a turbocharged engine. The Soul comes also comes with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities. It still has the many great features that Kia is known for, including its industry-leading 10-year/100,000 mile warranty program. You get to enjoy technology standards such as an 8-inch monitor, safety features, and so much more.
9. Hyundai Venue
Here’s a subcompact SUV that’s under $20k. The Hyundai Venue is a great option for those looking for SUV performance and space without the hefty price tag. The 2022 Venue has a starting MSRP of $18,900, an incredible price for the kind of car you’ll be getting. The Venue is the perfect vehicle to navigate the city traffic, but it’s also capable of taking you out on road adventures. The 2022 Hyundai Venue comes with 3 trims, the most expensive of which is still around $22,150.
8. Kia Forte
Classic yet sporty , the 2022 Kia Forte is the sedan for the masses. It’s great for the traveling student, but it also works for the hardworking adult. The Forte has all the standard features of a modern Kia, and that comes with a starting MSRP of $17,890. Kia redesigned the exterior of the Forte to make it even more attractive. This is especially true of the GT trim, which has a 201-hp turbocharged engine. You’ll also get up to 41 MPG with the 2022 Forte.
7. Kia Rio 5-Door
It’s a small car that packs a punch. The 2022 Kia Rio 5-Door is basically a hatchback Kia that gets it done. When it comes to space, the Rio 5-Door has it. When it comes to utility, this car carries more equipment than most. When it comes to function and technology, the 2022 Kia Rio 5-Door refuses to be left behind. That’s a lot of bells and whistles for only the base price of $16,990.
6. Hyundai Accent
As we approach the end of this list, you’ll notice that it’s the same companies that are offering the cheapest prices. This is Hyundai’s cheapest car this coming season. The 2022 Hyundai Accent has a starting MSRP of $16,645. That’s highly affordable for a subcompact sedan that has a ton of features. Get up to 41 MPG on your drive and enough space for 5 passengers. With a 4-door system, the car is accessible and easy to manage. The basic trim gives you Bluetooth capability, a 5-inch color touchscreen monitor, a rear-view monitor, and more.
5. Kia Rio
At this point in pricing, we are looking at cars that are roughly about $16k and cheaper. The 2022 Kia Rio is the 5thcheapest on this list with its starting MSRP of $16,050. This car is basically the sedan version of the 5-Door, and its obviously cheaper because it doesn’t have the same amount of space as the hatchback version. It’s one of the most practical subcompact sedans in the industry, and it also happens to be Kia’s cheapest car for the season. Kia has pushed the limits in automotive performance and tech with affordability and reliance. This Rio is proof that Kia is at the top of their game.
4. Mitsubishi Mirage G4
The 2022 Mitsubishi Mirage G4 leads the industry in its class when it comes to MPG. This car is made for urban travelling, and it will give you up to 41 MPG on the highway. At $15,645 starting MSRP, the Mirage G4 is a great option for many people on a budget. You still get reliability, comfort, and safety without breaking the bank. This car can seat up to 5 passengers and can keep you on the road for long periods of time.
3. Nissan Versa
If you’re looking for a little more tech for your dollar, the 2022 Nissan Versa is a great option. For just a little over $15k with the starting MSRP of $15,080, you’ll get Nissan’s Intelligent Mobility feature, an advanced engine and transmission, fuel efficiency, and even a little bit more power than most subcompact sedans. Even though it’s a subcompact car, the Versa offers enough space that’s been upgraded to look better and be more comfortable. With the Intelligent Mobility feature, you’ll be monitored from potential danger in all sides of the car. There’s not much the Versa couldn’t give you, and it does this at such a bargain price.
2. Mitsubishi Mirage
It’s definitely an adorable car. It’s the perfect car for the beginning driver, the adventurer, or anyone that’s on a budget. With a starting MSRP of only $14,645, the 2022 Mitsubishi Mirage is the second cheapest car you can buy in 2022. Just remember that the price is for a brand-new car. With that low of a base price, you could easily add more features to your liking as long as your budget allows. Otherwise, save the money on the trips that you would be making with this car. The 2022 Mirage is definitely a great option, but it isn’t the cheapest.
1. Chevrolet Spark
It might be surprising for some, but you can get a brand-new car for a base price of $13,600. That’s thousands of dollars cheaper than number 20 on this list. Chevrolet is doing something different in 2022. The Chevrolet Spark is a 2-door hatchback that gives you every necessity a car could provide. It’s reliable transportation; it provides ample of space especially in the cargo. It’s efficient enough when it comes to fuel, and it’s undeniably affordable. The best part is it comes in an availability of 10 bright and fun colors. So take your pick out on the lot, and enjoy a brand new 2022 Chevrolet Spark for a portion of the price compared to many other vehicles out there.