5 Affordable 2026 Car Models Experts Recommend
Written by
G. Brian Davis
Edited by
Zuri Anderson
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Cars have gotten expensive. No, really expensive: Last month, the average new car cost $50,080, according to Kelley Blue Book. That’s the first time the average has crossed the $50,000 threshold, and marks a long gap since 2019 when new cars averaged under $39,000.
So what’s a buyer to do, if they don’t want to go into mortgage-level debt to buy a car? Start your search with these affordable car models that punch above their weight class.
Toyota Corolla
- 2026 starting price: $23,920 (Kelley Blue Book)
The Corolla remains one of the best-selling sedans in the world for a reason: It offers incredible value for money.
“The 2026 Toyota Corolla keeps its established powertrain, excellent fuel performance and standard safety features,” explains mechanic Alan Gelfand, owner of the German Car Depot. “It has low maintenance costs with easily accessible parts, and its resale value exceeds most vehicles in its class.”
In other words, it’s hard to beat the Corolla’s bang for your buck.
Hyundai Elantra
- 2026 starting price: $23,370
It’s hard to say exactly when U.S. consumers started giving Hyundai the respect it deserves for quality and reliability. But at some point in the last two decades, Americans turned the corner and started embracing the Korean brand.
“Modern technology features, fashionable design and its 10-year powertrain warranty all make a winning combination for the Elantra,” adds Gelfand. “The warranty provides complete protection, and the 2026 Elantra provides advanced features such as adaptive cruise control and digital displays.”
Kia Seltos
- 2026 starting price: $25,135
The 2026 model actually starts below than the 2025 model ($26,085), and offers great value as a subcontract SUV. Zach Shefska, CEO of CarEdge, raves about the Seltos as a bargain.
“For 2026, Kia introduced a new entry-level front-wheel-drive LX trim, bringing the Seltos’ starting price down by nearly $1,000,” Shefska said. “That makes the Seltos one of the cheapest crossovers you can buy new in 2026.”
Subaru Crosstrek
- 2026 starting price: $28,415
Another subcompact SUV, the Crosstrek comes standard with all-wheel drive, which makes it a great all-weather car. The base model comes with 180 horsepower, adding to its fun, adventurous feel.
“The Crosstrek provides the best all-wheel drive option at this affordable price,” notes Gelfand. “The 2026 model provides enhanced safety features and enhanced fuel efficiency compared to previous models as well.”
Dodge Durango R/T Plus
- 2026 starting price: $53,515
As a three-row SUV with a V8 engine, the Durango is much larger and stronger than the crossover Seltos and Crosstrek. While the cheapest trim starts at $40,490, Shefska recommends the R/T Plus trim with its 360-horsepower engine as the best value.
“For 2025, Stellantis is out to turn around falling sales by adjusting pricing to lure in buyers. For 2026, the Dodge Durango R/T Plus is a whole lot more affordable,” he noted. “The Plus version of the popular Durango R/T gains premium features like leather-trimmed heated/ventilated seats, power sunroof and adaptive safety tech.”
Editor’s note: Photos are for representational purposes only.
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