You’re in the market for a new car, and you’ve done the math: you can spend around $25,000. Now how do you figure out what to buy? Our friends at Autoblog compiled a list of the best cars in that price range.
If $25,000 is too much, we’ve got you covered. Check out our lists for the best cars at $15,000 and $20,000.
2018 Honda Civic
The base price for the Honda Civic ($18,490) actually qualifies it for our list of $20,000 cars, but adding a little extra to the Civic brings it up to the $25,000 price point. Autoblog says they would “happily choose it over many of the midsize sedans that have price tags of similar or lesser value.”
The compact Civic, according to Autoblog, “is actually pretty darn big,” with an adult-friendly back seat and decent trunk. The cabin has a high-end feel, and it has a turbocharged engine that offers best-in-class acceleration and fuel economy. Throw in the fact that you can get the sporty Si trim level for less than $25,000 and you’ve got a winner.
2018 Toyota Camry
The Camry is one of the best-selling vehicles in North America, and it’s no wonder why: the thing is a workhorse. The base price for the Camry is $23,645. The LE trim level is substantially sharper to drive and has a classy cabin. The Camry’s combined highway/city fuel economy is pretty good too: 29 miles per gallon.
2018 Subaru Crosstrek
The Subaru Crosstrek starts life as an Impreza hatchback, but the Crosstrek crossover adds body cladding, roof rails as standard and great ground clearance. It’s a funky crossover that’s great for a weekend of outdoor Subaruing as well as your weekday commute. All-wheel drive comes as standard, and for $25,000 you’ll be looking at the Premium trim level, which comes with a leather-wrapped steering wheel and heated front seats.
2018 Mazda MX-5 Miata
Any auto enthusiast knows the Miata is one of the most fun cars you can drive. Autoblog writes it’s one of their favorite vehicles at any price point. It’s “a truly dynamic and engaging driver’s car,” Autoblog wrote. There might not be a ton of space for your luggage, but you’ll be having too much fun to remember where you even put it.
It’s tough to figure out what price range to put the Miata in because its base price is at the top of our range: $25,295. That means most optional extras — like the Miata Club sport trim level that offers a limited-slip differential, sport-tuned suspension, summer tires and subtle styling enhancements — put it out of this price range. Autoblog wrote those extras “undoubtedly” make the Miata better, but it doesn’t seem to be $4,000 better. ”If you’re looking to have the most fun possible for $25,000, [the Miata] is the answer.”