The Cheapest Car From Every Manufacturer

Exploring Budget-Friendly Options in the American Car Market 00:00

"If you're trying to save money, new is basically never the best route."

• The video focuses on the most affordable new vehicles from different manufacturers, especially in the context of the American market.

• While the previous video highlighted a range of manufacturers, many cars listed were still out of reach for some buyers. This video aims to address that gap.

• The primary focus is on current vehicle lineups, not historical pricing of the cheapest cars ever sold by these manufacturers.

American Manufacturers and Their Cheapest Offerings 00:55

"It's almost impossible to know what the cheapest car ever sold from each company is."

• Starting with American manufacturers, Ford's cheapest option is the base trim Ford Escape, priced at $29,515, which reflects a trend towards SUVs and away from affordable sedans.

• Lincoln no longer produces affordable vehicles, with the cheapest being the Lincoln Corsair at $39,735, which shares a platform with the Ford Escape.

• Chevrolet's cheapest offering, the Trax, starts at $20,500. This compact SUV is built on a newer platform and has received positive reviews for its value.

Notable Competitors in the SUV Market 03:17

"Buick's cheapest vehicle is also built on the same platform as the Trax."

• The Buick Envista, which starts at $24,600, is essentially an upgraded version of the Trax, offering a slightly more refined experience while still targeting budget-conscious buyers.

• GMC's Terrain is another affordable compact SUV, priced at $29,900, boasting decent tech features and good reviews.

• Interestingly, Cadillac retains some sedans as entry-level options, with the CT4 being the most affordable at $35,000, but experts suggest considering German brands for better value.

The Shift Towards SUVs and Crossovers 05:02

"It's either SUVs that are boring blobs or supercars."

• Jeeps' cheapest model is the Compass, priced at $26,900, which incorporates standard all-wheel drive and claims good off-road capability.

• Dodge offers the Hornet as its most affordable vehicle, starting at $31,400. This compact crossover is built in Italy and features multiple configurations including a plug-in hybrid variant.

• Chrysler primarily focuses on vans now, with the Voyager being the cheapest option at $39,995 for a practical family vehicle.

Electric Vehicles on a Budget 07:48

"Tesla's cheapest model is, of course, the Model 3 rear-wheel drive, which will run you $38,990."

• The Tesla Model 3 is highlighted as an option for those seeking a budget electric vehicle, though it still exceeds the $30k mark, even with available tax incentives.

• Rivian is set to offer the R2 and R3 starting around $37,000, but the currently available R1T and R1S models are priced significantly above that at around $70,990, showcasing premium electric performance.

Rivian R1T and Lucid Air Pure: The Affordable Electric Options 09:44

"The R1T is the most affordable electric vehicle, with impressive range and performance capabilities."

• The Rivian R1T is highlighted as a leading affordable option in the electric vehicle market, starting around $70,000. It is praised for its real-world range, off-road capabilities, and value retention compared to other electric vehicles.

• The Lucid Air Pure, while still premium at approximately $70,900, competes closely against Tesla's Model S in terms of performance and range. This price point is notably lower than the long-range Model S, which exceeds $90,000.

• It is mentioned that there is potential for Lucid to develop a more budget-friendly model in the future, though currently, the Air Pure remains the cheapest offering.

Toyota Corolla as the Most Affordable from Toyota 10:52

"The Corolla is currently the cheapest Toyota available, priced at $22,325."

• Toyota's cheapest model is now the Corolla, starting at $22,325, following the discontinuation of the Yaris.

• The Corolla comes with a 2.0L inline-4 engine producing 169 horsepower and achieves an impressive 35 miles per gallon.

• Featuring modern amenities such as a touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and comprehensive safety features, the Corolla remains a reliable choice for budget-conscious consumers.

Honda Civic: The Budget-Friendly Option 12:14

"Today, the cheapest car you can get from Honda is a Civic, which runs about $24,595."

• The Honda Civic has replaced the Fit as Honda's cheapest vehicle, with a starting price of $24,595.

• It is recognized for its reliability, low maintenance costs, and spaciousness compared to the previous Fit model, making it a practical choice for many buyers.

Nissan Versa: The Affordable Commuter 12:48

"The Legend budget-friendly commuter, the Nissan Versa, starts at around $17,000."

• The Nissan Versa is noted as one of the last genuinely affordable new cars, starting at approximately $17,000.

• It is described as simple, reliable, and economical, appealing especially to first-time car buyers and those needing a dependable vehicle without frills.

Subaru Impreza: All-Wheel Drive Affordability 13:56

"At $24,360, the Subaru Impreza is currently the cheapest Subaru available."

• The Subaru Impreza, priced at $24,360, is the most budget-friendly offering from Subaru, noted for its all-wheel drive system which enhances its performance in adverse weather.

• While it has shifted away from being a sports car, it retains practicality and safety, making it a suitable daily driver.

Mazda 3: Performance DNA in an Affordable Package 14:27

"Mazda 3, priced at $24,150, has legitimate performance DNA."

• The Mazda 3, starting at $24,150, is recognized for its stylish design and performance-oriented lineage, connecting back to Mazda’s rally history.

• Owners appreciate it for being fun to drive, combining compactness with enjoyable driving dynamics.

Mitsubishi Mirage: The Cheapest Vehicle Option 15:06

"The Mitsubishi Mirage is the cheapest car you can get here in the US, priced at around $16,695."

• The Mitsubishi Mirage costs approximately $16,695, making it one of the most affordable new cars on the market.

• While it is characterized as lacking in performance and luxury, it serves as a dependable option for budget-seeking customers. However, it is mentioned that this model is on its way out.

Hyundai Venue: Technology at a Low Price 15:38

"Hyundai's cheapest car, the Venue, has a sticker price of $20,200."

• The Hyundai Venue, priced at $20,200, offers a surprising amount of modern technology for its low cost, including a touchscreen and advanced safety features.

• Its 1.6L engine provides 121 horsepower, combining efficiency with essential tech, making it a solid choice for budget-conscious buyers.

Kia Soul: Unique and Spacious 16:51

"Kia's cheapest vehicle is the Soul, with a price tag of $20,490."

• The Kia Soul starts at $20,490 and is notable for its practicality and unique design.

• Its roomy interior provides more space and flexibility than many competitors, appealing especially in urban settings.

Volkswagen Jetta: Affordable German Engineering 17:26

"The Jetta is the cheapest VW that you can buy in the US today, starting at $22,495."

• The Volkswagen Jetta, starting at $22,495, is recognized as an entry point into German automotive quality, offering solid value for buyers.

• While it has received feedback regarding transmission performance, it remains a popular choice for those looking for an affordable German car.

Cheapest BMW and Mercedes for 2025 18:44

"The cheapest new BMW sold in the US for 2025 is the 2 Series, specifically the 228i Grand Coupe, with a starting MSRP of about $39,600."

• The 228i Grand Coupe is the only BMW priced under $40,000, a crucial psychological threshold for many buyers.

• Depending on personal preferences, while some may appreciate the car, others express disdain for the design evolution of BMW, claiming the recent models have lost their unique styling.

• Comparatively, buyers might find more appeal in older luxury sedans from the '80s and '90s that had distinctive design elements, rather than the current models which seem generic.

"The GLA, which starts at $43K, is Mercedes' most affordable car."

• The GLA is classified as an SUV, continuing the trend of affordable luxury offerings primarily being SUVs rather than traditional cars.

• Although the GLA features a turbocharged engine, it tends to have lower fuel efficiency compared to vehicles from the '90s.

• Consumers often lament that these entry-level luxury vehicles lack the true luxury feel traditionally associated with high-end brands, suggesting a preference for older models with genuine luxury aspects.

Affordable Options from Luxury Brands 20:30

"For current models, the E-PACE is the cheapest at $49,500."

• Jaguar's E-PACE, while described as a luxury vehicle, arrives at a price point that raises questions about its authenticity and value in the luxury segment.

• With a focus on maintaining a luxury status, these models often feature less costly materials and components, leading to a perception of being more about the badge than quality.

• Many users advise considering high-end SUVs from non-luxury brands instead to receive better value for money.

"The most affordable new Aston Martin currently is the Vantage, starting at $150K."

• The Aston Martin Vantage stands out for its powerful 4L twin-turbo V8 engine, producing up to 656 horsepower and a remarkable 0 to 60 time of just 3.4 seconds.

• Though it comes at a high price, it emphasizes traditional driving experiences, often adored by purists.

"The cheapest car from Bentley Motors is the Bentayga, starting around $197,300."

• Bentley's Bentayga is not only their least expensive model but also showcases luxurious features like handcrafted interiors and advanced tech, making it their best-selling vehicle.

• Despite the luxury feel, many true luxury buyers prefer the substantial quality and craftsmanship of classic vehicles; hence, proper education on what constitutes true luxury vehicles is vital.

Noteworthy Alternatives from Other Brands 24:23

"Rolls-Royce's most affordable offering is the 2025 Ghost Series 2, starting at around $357,750."

• The Ghost Series 2 retains Rolls-Royce's high standards for craftsmanship and offers a remarkable driving experience with advanced suspension and high-quality interiors.

• While it targets actual owners looking to drive, it still embodies what the brand portrays as 'effortless luxury,' albeit at an astronomical cost.

"The most affordable brand new McLaren that you can buy in the US today is the GTS, starting at approximately $224,400."

• The McLaren GTS presents a powerhouse with over 630 horsepower and blistering performance statistics, emphasizing its supercar persona.

• It represents how much performance one can gain in the luxury vehicle market, despite others in this price range providing more tech and options.

"The most affordable Mini you can get is the standard two-door Mini Cooper at $29,500."

• The Mini Cooper retains its go-kart-like feel but is criticized for its current high price tag in contrast to its historical pricing.

• A significant change in offerings includes the absence of manual transmission options, altering its identity as a fun, alternative sports car.

"For Caterham, the 84-horsepower 170 will cost you about $29,490 or just under 40K."

• Caterham's 170 exemplifies a modern take on classic sports cars, designed with a small company ethos and largely hand-built characteristics.

• While it proves to be competitive in performance and price, there's a desire among fans for even more affordable options.

Colin Chapman's Philosophy on Car Design 28:06

"Simplify, then add lightness."

• This principle reflects a commitment to creating cars that emphasize a pure driving experience, without modern distractions. An example cited is a car weighing under 1,000 lbs, which embodies the essence of a classic sports car feel, though it’s not available in the US market.

Morgan Cars and Their Unique Driving Experience 28:27

"The cheapest new Morgan car available in the US is the Super 3, starting at about $54K."

• The Morgan Super 3 is a quirky, open-air three-wheeler featuring a 1.5L Ford 3-cylinder engine generating 118 horsepower. Weighing around 1,400 lbs, it aims to deliver a raw driving experience with minimal modern distractions and is classified legally as a motorcycle.

Entry-Level Models from Italian Manufacturers 29:08

"The cheapest route into a brand new Ferrari is the Roma Spider, priced at $272,970."

• The Ferrari Roma Spider is now the entry-level model, following the discontinuation of the Roma coupe in the US. Its price point reflects a significant investment, and while it’s heavy on the wallet, owning a Ferrari is often valued beyond raw performance per dollar.

Lamborghini's Super SUV 29:55

"The Lamborghini Urus SE is the most affordable new model in the US, with a starting MSRP of about $262,000."

• The Urus SE blends performance with utility, housing a plug-in hybrid 4L twin-turbo V8 engine that produces 789 horsepower. It accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.4 seconds, making it both a high-performance vehicle and a practical choice.

Fiat's Electric Offering 30:33

"The Fiat 500E is the cheapest new Fiat you can buy in the US at around $30K."

• This compact electric city car has a limited range of 149 miles and is powered by a single front-mounted motor with 117 horsepower. While it may lack speed and cargo space, it is easy to park and retains the nostalgic charm associated with Fiat.

More Affordable Models from Italian Brands 31:04

"The Alfa Romeo Tonale is currently the most affordable new Alfa Romeo available in the US, starting at around $36,500."

• The Alfa Romeo Tonale is aimed at the compact crossover segment and features a unique Italian design, though it utilizes shared platforms with the Stellantis group, giving it a budget feel compared to rivals.

Maserati and Its Entry-Level Option 31:42

"The Gracali SUV is the most affordable Maserati, priced at $77,900."

• Despite being a luxury compact crossover, the Gracali features an optional 530 horsepower V6 engine. However, it has received mixed reviews regarding its performance compared to competitors at this price point.

Volvo's Position in the Market 32:16

"Volvo's cheapest offering is the XC40, costing about $41,945."

• The XC40 reflects Volvo's shift toward a more premium identity, departing from earlier quirky and affordable models. While it is practical and modern, critics note a loss of the brand's original identity in favor of a focus on luxury.

Hypercars and Their Pricing Landscape 32:44

"The cheapest Bugatti model is the new Turbion, starting at $4.1 million."

• The Bugatti Turbion features a V16 hybrid powertrain, marking a new era for the brand. Despite its high price, it is the least expensive model in Bugatti's lineup, emphasizing extreme performance and craftsmanship.

The Cost of Entry into Koenigsegg 33:31

"The most affordable modern production Koenigsegg is the JRA, starting at around $1.7 million."

• The JRA is a four-seater Mega GT that combines a twin-turbo 2L 3-cylinder engine with three electric motors, producing a remarkable 1,700 horsepower. This makes it a relatively competitive price point within the hypercar realm.

Pagani's Affordable Offerings 34:07

"The Utopia Coupe is Pagani's most affordable car, starting at $2.2 million."

• Staying true to its reputation for high-performance and artistic design, the Utopia Coupe features a Mercedes AMG twin-turbo V12 engine. Though it's the entry point for Pagani, it's still exceptionally priced compared to the brand's other models.

Price Comparisons in the Hypercar Market 35:06

"The base SSC Tuatara coupe is priced at around $1.6 million."

• This model, featuring a bespoke twin-turbo V8, offers impressive horsepower figures and acceleration to compete with other hypercars. Despite being more affordable, it upholds a high-performance standard, showcasing the evolving landscape of hypercar pricing.

The Importance of Affordable Vehicles 37:00

"Mitsubishi Mirage is the real winner at under $17K."

• Advocating for the continuation of affordable cars, this sentiment highlights the necessity for budget-friendly options that cater to consumers who prefer lower monthly payments without sacrificing vehicle ownership.