10 Cars That Look Expensive But Are More Affordable Than You Think

Shopping for a new car? Smart buyers will consider safety ratings, value, reliability, and fuel economy.

Car buying decisions are not solely practical, however. We are influenced just as much by how we feel. Consumers may be loyal to a brand based on experience or reputation.

Aesthetics are important, too, since a car feels like an extension of our personal style. Finally, whether commuting or road tripping, it is great to have of excitement or pride when driving a particular model of car.

Are there vehicles that check the boxes when it comes to practicality and style? GOBankingRates looked around and found these 10 excellent options.

Carfax praised the handling and safety of the 2024 Mazda3, whose interior design rivals some luxury cars at a much lower price point of $24,170.

Plus, if you’re looking to save depreciation costs by grabbing a used model, know that Mazda added a more powerful turbo motor than previous models in 2021, and the 2023 model features a base 155-horsepower motor. 

Boasting “a ton of style and a whole lot of value,” the 2024 Hyundai Elantra is a good choice for anyone looking for a combination of style and affordability. Starting at $22,775, Car and Driver rated this model 8.5 out of 10.

The luxurious interior styling and spacious seating of the 2024 Toyota Venza SUV comes at a slightly higher price of $34,920, but Carfax said this model gets great gas mileage for an SUV and comes in a hybrid option.

According to Motortrend, the sleek 2023 Acura Integra is an inexpensive luxury car for $32,495.

The base model cuts out some of the nice-to-have features like a premium audio system, but all models have high-end, reliable safety features like blind spot recognition.

This sedan has excellent crash test scores and a high safety rating.

The 2024 Kia K5 is sporty and fun to drive, according to Carfax, and comes with optional AWD and a user-friendly 8-inch touchscreen. Priced at $25,390.

A true sports car for the under-$30,000 price of $29,896, the 2024 Subaru BRZ boasts terrific handling and 2+2 seating in a coupe body style, according to Kelley Blue Book.

Car and Driver gave the 2024 Honda Civic / Civic Hybrid a 10 out of 10 rating for its “effortless balance of practicality, value and driving fun.”

This “#1 Best in Compact Cars” option might feel less luxurious and more practical, but if you haven’t seen some of the upgraded interiors and available trims lately, you’re in a for a treat. Starting at $25,345.

For those looking for less sedan and more off-roading style, the 2024 Ford Bronco Sport has standard AWD and cool, old-school styling.

Starting at $31,230, this smaller SUV blends modern tech, current safety features and brand appeal at an attractive price.

Owners give the 2024 Ford Maverick a 4.6 out of 5 star rating, and this newly-designed compact truck was named Best Buy in its class in 2023 by Kelley Blue Book.

Starting at $23,400 with many well-equipped versions still coming in under $30,000, the Maverick has second row seating and can tow 2,000 lbs.

If a futuristic, unconventional look is for you, the 2024 Hyundai Kona delivers tremendous value, according to Kelley Blue Book at a base of $25,645. Even the upgraded SE and SEL models are available for under $30,000.

The Kona also comes with stylish trims and a great warranty, making this a perfect choice for a forward-thinking buyer.

Photos are for representational purposes only.