4 Reliable Car Models the Middle Class Can Still Afford
Written by
Chris Adam
Edited by
Zuri Anderson
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It can be tough to afford a vehicle during normal times. Now, with concerns about tariffs and general auto rising costs on the minds of many drivers, this can feel like a terrible time to buy a car or truck.
However, several well-known and trusted models still offer reliability and affordability for middle-class drivers. Some auto experts shared with GOBankingRates their picks for vehicles that fit the bill.
While the details below are for 2025 models, it may be helpful to shop around for some previous years to find lower prices. The pricing and J.D. Power reliability information comes from U.S. News & World Report.
2025 Toyota Camry
- MSRP: $28,700 to $36,425
- Reliability: 86
It may be no surprise to see the popular Toyota Camry on the top of this list for reliable vehicle models still affordable for the middle class.
“Toyota’s reliability plus lower operating costs keep this a top midsize sedan choice,” said Zach Shefska, CEO and co-founder of CarEdge.
2025 Honda CR-V
- MSRP: $30,100 to $36,500
- Reliability: 84
According to Shefska, “This is a longtime family favorite. Spacious, durable and efficient, with hybrid and turbo options that offer longevity and value.”
Kia Telluride
- MSRP: $36,390 to $53,685
- Reliability: 86
“The Telluride is among the reliable models with plush extras you’ll find in larger and more expensive vehicles,” said Chris Pyle, an auto expert from JustAnswer. “It’s very well built and rarely visits the shop for power and drive train issues.”
Ford Maverick
- MSRP: $26,995 to $40,750
- Reliability: 85
“Tariffs have jacked up stickers across the board, yet bread-and-butter picks like the Maverick are still squarely in middle-class territory,” said Sinduja Rangarajan, data storytelling lead for Jerry. “More than 70% of their parts are made in North America, so these cars see only about a 6% price bump instead of the full 25% import tax. That homegrown parts pipeline also mutes future insurance cost spikes.”
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