4 Cheapest New Cars for Retirees in 2025
Written by
Chris Adam
Edited by
Amber Barkley
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Amid talk about inflation and higher prices on many items consumers use on a regular basis, there have been concerns about car prices going up. Some of those concerns touch on overall economic uncertainty and President Donald Trump’s plans for taxes and tariffs. For retirees, who can’t risk inflation outstripping their retirement savings, being able to afford a big purchase like a car is an even greater concern.
Even with all that uncertainty, there are still some affordable new vehicles available in 2025 with prices below $25,000 — and they have features that are perfect for retirees.
2025 Nissan Versa
- Starting price: $17,190
Starting with one of the cheapest new cars you’ll probably find in the United States, the 2025 Nissan Versa has a price under $20,000, and it comes with plenty of features.
Per Kelley Blue Book, which listed the 2025 Versa on its list of the cheapest new cars for the year, this vehicle comes with a good range of safety tech and standard convenience features. You might want to know that the cheapest model comes standard with a 5-speed manual transmission, but you can upgrade to a continuously variable automatic one for an additional $1,800.
The Versa’s interior is spacious and comfortable for everything from a routine grocery run to picking up your grandkids for a fun day out.
2025 Hyundai Venue
- Starting price: $20,200
The next cheapest new ride on the list is a crossover SUV. In fact, you’ll probably find it’s the cheapest in that category you can buy in the U.S.
You might like this vehicle for more than just the low price. It comes with good gas mileage, smart safety features and a nice warranty, and reviewers called it an affordable vehicle to own.
However, the Venue does not offer four-wheel drive, so it might be one to skip for retirees who drive in winter conditions.
2025 Chevrolet Trax
- Starting price: $20,500
If you’re a fan of the Trax, Chevrolet has good news for 2025. The new Trax comes with all you like about this Chevy vehicle, along with a refreshed look and updated technology, including standard Chevy Safety Assist.
Like the Venue, the Trax is front-wheel drive only, but reviewers particularly like the spacious interior — it should fit all your bags for a road trip or a family getaway.
2025 Hyundai Elantra
- Starting price: $22,125
If you want good looks and good value, consider the Elantra or Elantra Hybrid. Reviews noted they’re compact sedans with lots of qualities that make them worth considering for 2025.
For buyers looking to get an affordable ride they’ll be proud to drive, the edgy looks of the 2025 Elantra may do the trick. If you want low maintenance and a lot of value to last through your retirement years, the Elantra should be able to take you where you’re going.
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