Is It A Microcar A Side
Spending every day of your existence stuck in a recliner with nothing but Four Roses and CNN for company can quickly turn into a living hell. Sadly, it’s what life has come to for my grandfather, who at 89 years of age, isn’t quite as mobile as he used to be. Even if his favorite watering holes remain closed due to COVID-19, the man deserves a way to get out and about, and enjoy the back roads of Appalachia if the mood strikes him. The only issue is that he’s no longer up to the task of operating his old manual Chevrolet Colorado, so he needs a slightly simpler form of transport.
This is why I’m asking you to answer a question for the sake of an old man: What are the cheapest street-legal vehicles you can buy in America?
Let’s start by excluding all two-wheeled vehicles, as they’re only a good solution if you don’t have the balance of… well, an 89-year-old. And yes, while a Mahindra Roxor is a fun answer, it’s actually three grand costlier than a 2020 Mitsubishi Mirage, and the point is to avoid buying a full-sized car and the associated costs. Sadly, that also counts out something like a Polaris GEM electric side-by-side, which would be a hoot to roll around in when the weather is nice but is more at home at the country club than a Tennessee Vols tailgate.
Don’t let me down, people.
The Cheapest New Cars Of : Top 10 Ranking
Were now solidly within a period of disappointing new market entrants in the economical compact and subcompact car segments, with gas prices being as low as they are. With prices staying within the $2.00 $2.25 per gallon range for quite a while now, and no sustained increases in price in sight, manufacturers are moving away from adding small, fuel-efficient vehicles to their lineups, due to these consumer purchasing behaviors and lower profit margins on these vehicles. Fuel efficiency is gravitating more and more to electric-drive vehicles, and not smaller cars. Ill be exploring this further in my upcoming ranking of the most fuel-efficient cars of 2021.
There were 47 new and redesigned vehicles last year, but only 29 this year. Similar to last years entrance of the Hyundai Venue, only 1 new vehicle made this cheapest new cars list, and it is also a subcompact SUV the Chevy Trailblazer. It ranks as the 8th cheapest new vehicle in 2021. The trend over the last 2 years gives you an idea of where the market is heading with inexpensive new vehicle model entrants.
Looking at a broader trend, a large number of cheaper compact and subcompact vehicles have recently had production ended, in favor of more development into trucks and SUVs:
- Chrysler: 100
- GM: Chevy Volt, Chevy Cruze, Chevy Sonic
- Fiat: 500
- Ford: Fiesta, Focus Sedan , Fusion
- Honda: CRZ, Fit
- VW: Beetle, Touareg
Not a good sign for the future for those who like inexpensive cars.
The 15 Cheapest New Cars You Can Buy In 2021
Sometimes, less is betterespecially when it comes to the hit on your wallet.
A new car will be the second most expensive purchase of your life besides your home, but you don’t have to overpay when selecting a new ride. According to Car and Driver, the average new car sale price was $43,600 in 2021, but several car companies that have cheaper models available for those shopping on a tighter budget. While there may be better looking, faster, or more comfortable cars available, these will get you 9/10ths of the way there for a much smaller hit on your wallet.
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Best States For Low Car Fees
Even once youve agreed on a final price with the dealer, you can expect other added fees. Dealer documentation fees, which help cover the dealerships administrative cost of selling a car, are usually non-negotiable.
Some states place a limit on what dealers can charge for documentation fees, but most dont. Alaska has no limit on dealer documentation fees, but it does require that the fee be included in the final price of the car.
Currently, the states with the lowest average dealer doc fees include:
- California: $55
Cheapest Electric Vehicles & Plug
A decade ago, when the Nissan Leaf appeared as the first widely available mainstream electric car, the only drivers genuinely interested in buying one were early adopters with short commutes. With only about 100 miles of range and a new consumer phenomenon later dubbed “range anxiety,” the Leaf had limited appeal.
But in subsequent years, advances in battery design and packaging meant more miles, broadening the acceptance of electric vehicles. Gradually, more buyers could envision using an EV for trips to and from work or for errand runs around town. Today’s EVs range from pokey and basic to fast and luxurious, with price tags to match. But if you don’t need a lot of range, some of today’s top electric vehicles can be had for the price of an average sedan, and for even less when you factor in federal and state incentives.
We’ve gathered up the most affordable electric vehicles you can buy today and tip you off about some notable options on the horizon. If you’ve been hesitant to dip a toe in the electric waters , now is a great time to make a relatively low-risk leap.
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The Best State For Initial Fees: Florida
One of the first things to consider during the car search and buying process is the initial cost. The price of a new or used car model is not the same across all states, so shopping around and knowing the facts can be beneficial.
When looking for a used car, Florida has the lowest initial costs. According to Autolist, Florida’s initial rates are typically ten percent lower than the national average in the U.S., which means you can save some serious money.
The low initial costs in Florida are due to several factors:
Florida has a large population of older people. Since they drive less through the years, they sell their cars. This opens up a window of opportunity to find the best deal on a used car. One of the best aspects of purchasing a car in Florida is that the vehicles have most likely never seen snowy weather conditions. The frames and underbody components remain primarily free of rust due to never encountering salt used for melting snow, so they are often in excellent condition.
In case you were wondering, California is the worst state for initial costs. The general cost of living in California is extremely high, and there are no signs of the high expenses slowing down anytime soon. Furthermore, unemployment is a significant factor too, which means there are many financially challenged homes, so they are holding onto their vehicles.
Fuel Cost: Electric Cars Vs Gas Cars
Comparing the costs of electricity required to run an electric car versus the costs of gasoline to power a regular car is still an arcane science with many variables. Charging at home overnight, for example, allows you to charge at off-peak hours, reducing your costs. If you charge during the day, you’ll see those rates jump. If you often charge at work or an outside charging station, you’ll need an account with one of the growing numbers of electricity providers that often offer flat-rate charging . Generally speaking, electricity costs less than gasoline and its pricing is more stable. But there’s a learning curve to understanding when it’s cheapest to tap into the grid to top up your EV.
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Cheapest States To Buy A Car: Overall Winner
Overall, New Hampshire is the cheapest state to buy a car, since registration fees are low and sales tax non-existent.
Florida is the second cheapest state to buy a car, and the state has a wonderful inventory. In fact, cars cost around ten percent less than the average. Unfortunately, title and registration fees and tax are higher in Florida than in most other states.
As you can see, there are many considerations when it comes to buying a car out of state. Just be sure that you consider all the costs and that you inspect the car properly before signing on the dotted like.
Do you buy vehicles from out of state? What was the cheapest state to buy a car in your experience?
Chevrolet Spark Ls $14395
EPA Mileage: 29/38 mpg
The North American version of the Daewoo Matiz, sold around the globe under myriad brand and model names, is one of the most fun-to-drive mini cars on the market.
As an aside, though it’s not one of the cheapest cars, Chevrolet also offered the Spark electric vehicle from 2013-16 as a stop-gap car before launching the Bolt EV, but more recently and in deference to U.S. market reality, it added the ACTIV faux-crossover after launching the latest Spark for the 2016 model year. The Chevy Spark ACTIV’s “rugged look” consists of a raised suspension, black trim and cladding, front foglamps, and a roof rack, for a more expensive base price of $18,495. Seriously, it’s not as bad as it sounds, and it’s still $2,745 cheaper than the similarly unconvincing Ford EcoSport.
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Engine Transmission And Performance
Every Spark has a feeble four-cylinder engine that drives the front wheels through either a five-speed manual or continuously variable automatic transmission . Thankfully, the gearless automatic manages power well without droning engine noise. While the version we tested was responsive at low speeds around town, be prepared to wait as it moseys up to higher speeds. This diminutive hatchback is definitely not designed for long road trips, but it’s effective and quiet in the city. The Spark is easy to thread through slow-moving traffic, with quick lateral movements and stable motions. Its short wheelbase aids maneuverability in tight spaces without compromising ride quality. Still, the Chevy was bouncy on uneven surfaces, and the harshest bumps were barely isolated. However, rattles and road noise were more subdued than in rival economy cars. The Spark’s steering felt direct and communicated the road surface to the driver’s hand. It was also relaxed at highway speeds and made changing lanes easy without feeling twitchy. The firm brake pedal had strong responses that helped scrub speed quickly and consistently.
Best States To Buy Used Cars
Buying a used car can save you money, but even used car prices are on the rise. According to CarAndDriver.com, the average used car costs around 35% more today than it did at the beginning of 2021.
That said, certain markets are cheaper than others so if youre looking to save money on the initial cost of a used car, you might want to consider looking out of state. But keep in mind there could be shipping costs and additional registration fees for out-of-state vehicles.
Here are the five states with the lowest average used car price based on car sales from February to July 2021, according to iSeeCars.com:
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The Best States To Buy A Used Car
Before we get to the overall winner of the best state to buy a used car, let’s look at some of the contenders at the top of the list.
FloridaFlorida is the second-best state to buy a car in the US. Their large automotive market means that they offer the lowest initial car prices, while you get to enjoy an extensive inventory of options. Vehicles in Florida cost around ten percent less than the country’s average however, their registration fees and car sales tax are slightly higher than other states.
North CarolinaBelow is why North Carolina is one the cheapest states to buy a used vehicle:
- Low car sales tax at only 3%.
- Relatively low title and registration fees associated with the vehicle purchase.
- Affordable auto insurance.
- The maintenance fees and upkeep costs are affordable in North Carolina.
MissouriMissouri earns its place as one of the cheapest states to buy a car because:
- Their initial costs are average compared to other states.
- Their gas prices are amongst some of the cheapest in the U.S.
- Most of their car-buying expenses, including ownership, transportation, title, and registration fees, are more reasonable than most states.
- Their car insurance fees are also relatively low.
OhioOhio is also a cheap state to buy a used car for the following reasons:
- Insurance premiums in Ohio are one of the lowest.
- Gas prices and maintenance fees are also ranked one of the lowest in the country.
Chevy Is Staking Out An Early Position In The Race To Sell Affordable Mass
Chevys parent company, GM, has vowed to release a series of EVs that will sell for under $30,000 using its low-cost Ultium batteries. The Detroit automaker also plans to release an electric version of its Equinox crossover model, which will go on sale next year for about $30,000.
Most EV models are already cheaper to own than comparable gas-powered cars, if you figure in the lifetime cost of fuel and maintenance. But EVs generally come with higher sticker prices than gas-powered cars, which scare off potential buyers. Plus, the US tax credit for EVs has started to expire, and Congress has been unable to expand or extend the credit, making electric cars even more expensive.
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Hyundai Venue Se $18490
EPA Mileage: 27/35 mpg
The all-new Hyundai Venue is a tallish, front-wheel-drive-only “SUV,” or at least that’s what Hyundai calls it. More like tall hatchback, and that’s something Hyundai should embrace. The Venue is also Hyundai’s answer to the upward-creeping price of so many cars and SUVsand because it’s just about the latest entry-level sub-$20,000 model on the market, it comes standard with an Apple CarPlay/Android Auto 8.0-inch touchscreen and SmartSense with forward-collision warning. That’s all on the SE model, which is the only trim level available with a six-speed manual.
After our first Venue test drive in Miami last January, we called it “a boxful of modern minimalism.” Add a “my other car is an e-bike” license plate frame, and take along look at this entry on the list of cheapest cars for sale in the U.S.
10. 2020 Kia Soul LX, $18,610
EPA Mileage: 25/31 mpg
Thanks to a cheeky marketing campaign and its funky styling, the Kia Soul has been a rare example of a cheap, easily affordable econobox that has sold very well over the years, often one of the brand’s bestsellers.
The Kia Soul rides on a new platform for 2020, and higher-trim models offer such luxuries as a 10.25-inch touchscreen, and a head-up display. There’s a Soul GT Line and a Soul X-Line, but you want the Soul LX if you want to save money.
Chevrolet Spark: Cheapest Price
With an MSRP of $14,595 including destination, the 2022 Spark remains the cheapest car you can buy in the United States. Sadly, that only gets you an entry-level model with a manual transmission. Configured with a CVT transmission, the MSRP increases to $15,695 before factoring in any dealer discounts or incentives.
When the Chevy Sonic was discontinued, the jump in price to the next car in the lineup increased significantly. For reference, 2022 Malibu pricing starts at $24,395, a difference of $9,800 compared to the cheapest Spark. Alternatively, you may want to consider a 2022 Chevrolet Trax crossover, which starts at $22,595.
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Changli Nemica $1249 Or $975
The “or $975” means that there was a period when these were under the $1,000 mark but they have since gone back up presumably thanks to the plethora of Youtubers and their watchers who jumped on the “cheapest car in the world” trend, driving up demand. Still, it retains its title and thanks to the coverage there’s more we know about the Changli.
For one, it remains drivable after frequent use a year later as demonstrated by Jason Torchinsky. In fact, little more than the cheap mirrors and plastic bodies truly start to show their true colors. The waterproof and rainproofs are proven, and the cost-savings really boil down to things like the manual-sliding windows, lack of power, and three-seat design. The sticker-plastered design has since gotten a facelift and three solid color options. It can go maybe 60 miles on a charge if you throw your body weight into it when you accelerate, and that’s without using the working Bluetooth stereo. If you want your own you’ll just need to negotiate the shipping method on Alibaba and then pick up your brand new car from a port such as LA!
How Car Models Affect Insurance Rates Down To The Trim
Car insurance companies set pricing based on the risk theyve determined you and your vehicle present. To determine a vehicles risk, insurers consider claim histories, including accidents, repair costs and rates of car theft. More and more costly claims for a particular model mean higher car insurance rates.
Conversely, the cheapest cars to insure tend to have fewer, lower-cost claims.
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Last Of The Economy Cars
The 2020 Nissan Versa is the cheapest sedan you can buy, but Fox News Autos editor Gary Gastelu says it doesn’t act like it is.
It’s been a rough year to buy a new car and 2022 doesn’t look much better.
Average transaction prices hit a record above $46,000 in October due to low inventories and its going to be a while before the situation returns to normal.
The increase is also the result of a market shift toward trucks and SUVs and many customers buying high end models, but there are still a few economy cars being offered with low suggested retail prices. That’s not to say dealers won’t try to squeeze a little more out of the sale. We’ve found examples of the three cheapest cars on sale with markups ranging from $1,000 to $10,000, but there are plenty listed at sticker price.
