BEST NEW CARS AND SUVS FOR UNDER $30,000
These top performers cost less than the average new car
Nissan Rogue
By Jon Linkov
Cars, minivans, SUVs, and trucks were already becoming increasingly expensive to buy and own prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. But the manufacturing shutdown of vehicles and components that initially caused a ripple effect in the supply-demand curve of new and used vehicles continues to cause headaches for buyers. Inventories remain low for the most popular models, automakers are building more expensive (i.e., profitable) vehicles at the expense of cheaper ones, and dealerships are tacking “price adjustments” onto many cars, SUVs, and trucks. The result is that the average price of a new vehicle was over $48,000 in October 2022, according to Kelley Blue Book.
Still, even with increased MSRPs (manufacturers’ suggested retail prices), there are many excellent vehicles that sell for far less than that. To assist bargain hunters, we’ve assembled a list of the best new cars and SUVs under $30,000 based on their Overall Score, factoring in road-test performance, owner satisfaction, predicted reliability, and safety.
All come with standard automatic emergency braking (AEB). In addition, AEB that works at highway speeds, blind spot warning (BSW), and rear cross traffic warning (RCTW) either come standard or as options that don’t push the price above $30,000. That’s why you won’t see some top-scoring models, such as the Honda Accord or Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, on this list.
Some of these models have our Green Choice designation, which highlights the vehicles with the cleanest emissions.
The small and midsized cars, and small SUVs, below (listed in alphabetical order within classes) have all met the stringent performance, reliability, and safety requirements necessary to earn CR’s recommendation. The best in the class is highlighted with a photo and profile.
Click the model names for road-test results, information on reliability and pricing, and much more.
Best Small Car: Toyota Corolla Hybrid
2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid
The Corolla Hybrid is an even more fuel-efficient version of Toyota’s sensible compact sedan. The hybrid version gets an impressive 48 mpg overall, although its acceleration is best described as leisurely. The continuously variable transmission also amplifies engine noise. All-wheel drive is available with the 2023 freshening, and the hybrid version has more trim levels to choose from. It also gets Toyota’s latest infotainment system. The Corolla’s handling agility is among the better in the class, as are ride comfort and cabin quietness. The controls are very easy to use. AEB with pedestrian detection and highway-speed AEB are standard, and BSW and RCTW are available in an options package.
Other Top Models
Honda CivicHyundai Elantra Hybrid
Best Midsized Car: Toyota Camry Hybrid
2023 Toyota Camry Hybrid
In the world of midsized sedans, the Camry Hybrid ranks among the best, thanks to its comfortable ride, quiet cabin, good fuel economy, and easy-to-use controls. In our tests we got an impressive 47 mpg overall. Handling is slightly improved over previous versions, but the lower stance makes access a little more difficult, and the rear seat is not as roomy as in some competitors. AEB with pedestrian detection and highway-speed AEB come standard, but BSW and RCTW are optional. Adding them to the LE trim brings the price just under $30,000.
Other Top Models
Best Small SUV: Subaru Forester
2023 Subaru Forester
This popular small SUV delivers a combination of a roomy interior, excellent visibility, commendable fuel economy, simple controls, a comfortable ride, and responsive handling. The 2.5-liter four-cylinder combined with the continuously variable automatic transmission yielded best-in-class fuel economy. But acceleration isn’t exhilarating, and the engine’s noise isn’t the most pleasant. The cabin is roomy, with a particularly generous rear seat and very easy access. The controls are simple to use. While AEB with pedestrian detection and highway-speed AEB are standard, neither BSW nor RCTW is available on the base version; both are optional on the Premium trim, which comes in at less than $30,000 before the destination charge.
Other Top Models
Nissan Rogue SportSubaru Crosstrek
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2022-02-17T15:41:53Z dg43tfdfdgfd