6 Most Affordable Cars for Retirees in 2025

©Hyundai

Commitment to Our Readers

GOBankingRates' editorial team is committed to bringing you unbiased reviews and information. We use data-driven methodologies to evaluate financial products and services - our reviews and ratings are not influenced by advertisers. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and our products and services review methodology.

20 Years
Helping You Live Richer

Reviewed
by Experts

Trusted by
Millions of Readers

There’s “cheap,” and then there’s “value.” Fortunately, retirees today have plenty of options for affordable cars offering reliability, comfort and even a dash of style and performance.

As you shop for a car that can potentially last your entire retirement, start with these expert picks.

Best Value Overall for Retirees: Hyundai Elantra

• Base Model MSRP (KBB): $23,320

Among compact sedans, Kelley Blue Book (KBB) bestows their second-highest rating on the Elantra. It comes with a low MSRP price, which you can (and should) negotiate down further. It also comes in a hybrid model, which scores 50-54 miles per gallon. Even the all-gas engine offers up to 36 MPG to minimize the impact at the pump.

“The 2025 Hyundai Elantra is a good all-around value,” noted Alan Gelfand of German Car Depot. “Retirees will appreciate its roomy interior and easy access, and a ten-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty. And the tech interface is easy to use without being overly complicated.”

Best Value SUV for Retirees: Kia Seltos

• Base Model MSRP (KBB): $26,085

US News and World Report loved the Kia Seltos, granting it a stellar 9.1 out of 10 rating.

Gelfand loved it, too, shouting out its practicality for retirees on a budget.”: “The Seltos offers retirees an SUV’s practicality without the premium price tag. “The slightly higher seating position is easier for those with mobility issues to get into and out of, but still provides great fuel economy at 31 combined mpg,” he noted. “The cargo space is quite generous to fit in golf clubs or the necessities for grandchildren.”

Best Value Pickup for Retirees: Ford Maverick Hybrid

• Base Model MSRP (KBB): $28,590

Pickup trucks don’t need to break the bank in order to perform. Joe Giranda, Director of Sales & Marketing at car shipping company CFR Classic, had nothing but praise for the affordable Ford Maverick Hybrid. “Its affordable starting price combined with the hybrid’s fuel efficiency (up to 40 mpg in the city) makes it a practical, inexpensive option for retirees who need a truck’s utility but don’t require a full-size truck.”

Best Value Sports Car for Retirees: Ford Mustang

• Base Model MSRP (KBB): $33,515

Just because you’re retired, it doesn’t mean you don’t want to have any fun behind the wheel.

Automotive expert Melanie Musson with AutoInsurance.org raved about the classic American muscle Ford Mustang. “It’s an especially good fit for retirees because it’s much easier to get in and out of than most other sports cars.”

Musson went on to point out that while Mustangs aren’t necessarily the most powerful vehicle on the market, their reliability is what kept them thriving over the years.

Best Value EV for Retirees: Chevrolet Bolt

• Base Model Fair Price (KBB — 2023): $20,651

Sadly, Chevy paused production of the outstanding Bolt electric vehicle in 2023. However, The Detroit Free Press reported it will release a new 2026 model later in 2025.

“The Bolt makes a great option if you’re up for going electric without going broke,” shared Alex Black, auto expert and CMO at EpicVIN. “Federal tax incentives can reduce the cost even more.”

You can pick up the 2023 model for around $20,000, or wait for the 2026 model to buy new. The 2023 model came with an impressive 247 range, which the 2026 model will undoubtedly improve.

Best Ultra-Cheap Car for Retirees: Nissan Versa

• Base Model MSRP (KBB): $18,330

The Nissan Versa remains the only car selling new for less than $20,000 in the U.S., yet it continues to garner great reviews. Car and Driver ranked it an 8 out of 10, and Gelfand agreed that it deserves the praise. “The 2025 Nissan Versa continues to be the least expensive new car in America, yet it offers more value than many others.”

Gelfand went on: “Despite the fact that the Versa is positioned as an entry-level vehicle, it is equipped with advanced safety features like automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning that are useful for older drivers.”

You don’t need to crack your nest egg to buy a car that can last you decades in retirement. Start with options like those above, which offer great value. You can then add to the savings by negotiating hard for a lower price. From there, care for the car and you may never have to buy one again.

Share This Article: