14 Affordable and Reliable Car Models: Durable and Budget-friendly Options

Affordable price and durability are two of the many criteria that consumers prioritize when choosing a car. Fortunately, there are models on the market that meet both of these criteria.

To help consumers make better choices, Consumer Reports has released a list of the 14 most affordable and durable car models on the market today. These models on Consumer Reports’ list all have high reliability scores and prices under $30,000 without sacrificing safety features. These cars have been selected from a survey of the reliability of cars that Consumer Reports recently conducted based on feedback from users of more than 330,000 cars in the US market.

Toyota Corolla

It is no surprise that the Toyota Corolla appears on Consumer Reports’ list. For a long time, this Toyota model has been known as a budget-friendly, durable, and reliable choice. Additionally, the Toyota Corolla offers a variety of options for consumers, from sedan and hatchback styles to gasoline and fuel-efficient hybrid engines. Except for the high-performance GR Corolla, this compact car model has a starting price of under $30,000 in the US market.

Mazda3

For many years, Mazda has been known for producing quality cars, and the Mazda3 is one of them. If you want to own a stylish Japanese car that is not from Toyota or Honda, then the Mazda3 is the perfect choice. In the US market, this car model has a starting price of under $25,000.

Mini Cooper

When it comes to reliable car models, many people may not think of the Mini Cooper. However, this year’s survey by Consumer Reports shows that the Mini Cooper has overcome this obstacle, at least in the hardtop version.

Kia Forte

The Kia Forte may not be the best compact sedan you can buy in the US market. However, it is undeniable that this is a reliable car model. Especially, the Kia Forte is one of the few car models with a starting price under $20,000 in the US market.

Kia Niro

After the Forte, another Kia model is included in Consumer Reports’ list, the Niro. This compact SUV is considered a practical and reliable four-wheel companion for daily use. The highlight of this Korean car model is that it offers gasoline, hybrid, and electric versions for consumers to choose from. In addition, the Kia Niro has a starting price below $30,000.

Hyundai Elantra

If you are looking for a compact sedan with standout design, the Hyundai Elantra is worth considering. The design of the Hyundai Elantra may be controversial, but at least it is unforgettable unlike the Toyota Corolla. Furthermore, the Hyundai Elantra is a durable and reliable car model according to the survey by Consumer Reports. The starting price of this Korean car model in the US market is below $30,000, except for the high-performance N version.

Toyota Camry

Similar to the Corolla, the Camry from Toyota is a brand associated with reliable cars. Moreover, this midsize sedan also has a starting price of less than $30,000. Therefore, it is not surprising that the Toyota Camry is also mentioned on this list.

Kia K5

Another Kia model appears on the list, this time it’s the K5 – a direct competitor to the Toyota Camry. The Kia K5 is a sedan with stylish design and receives positive reviews. The only drawback is that the Kia K5 in the US market does not have a fuel-efficient hybrid version. Except for the highest GT trim, the rest of the Kia K5 models have prices under $30,000.

Subaru Crosstrek

As the older brother Forester continues to increase in size, it is not surprising that the Crosstrek becomes the replacement choice in the small, practical, and surprisingly off-road capable SUV segment. In addition, the Subaru Crosstrek also has high reliability and a starting price of less than $26,000.

Honda HR-V

The Honda HR-V may not be a large car, but the new generation is much more spacious. This car model doesn’t have a powerful engine, but it is durable, reliable, and has a starting price of less than $25,000.

Toyota Corolla Cross

If you like the idea of owning a Corolla Hatchback with a higher ground clearance and a more SUV-like design, then the Toyota Corolla Cross is the ideal choice. Similar to other Toyota models, the Corolla Cross is also highly rated for reliability. The price of this car model is reasonable, with a starting price below $25,000.

Hyundai Tucson

The Hyundai Tucson is a compact SUV with a unique and distinctive design but no less reliable. If you don’t mind the exterior design of the Hyundai Tucson, then this compact SUV is a worthy purchase. Unfortunately, the fuel-efficient hybrid version of the Hyundai Tucson has a starting price above $30,000.

Mazda CX-30

If you like the design of the Mazda3 but want to own a higher-riding car, then you should consider the Mazda CX-30. Compared to the Mazda3, the Mazda CX-30 has a higher starting price but still remains below $25,000.

Ford Maverick

Ford made a smart move by introducing the small-sized Maverick pickup truck to the US market. This car model quickly achieved success and outperformed its rival, the Hyundai Santa Cruz. In addition to its high reliability, the Ford Maverick is also budget-friendly with a starting price of under $25,000.