Consumer Reports has selected the best new cars and SUVs under $30K before the year ends to help you get the best deals. It’s the right time to score a heavily discounted outgoing 2024 model or eagerly anticipate and reserve an upcoming 2025 variant. However, pricing is still higher, so it might not be easy to find something amazing under $30K.
The pandemic and continuing shortage after it have severely affected supply and availability, which in turn soured car prices in the following years. However, smaller cars and SUVs who do not fall short when it comes to features and capabilities are our saving grace. Many of them are affordable and economical, so they are practical options for those who want to stay under $30K.
It’s no secret that every manufacturer has scrambled to produce budget models in the past two decades. There is now a sea of options, but not all of them are great. Some have tiny, unremarkable engines focused on economy rather than performance, so they may be a bit more boring to drive. Thankfully, CR has tested its picks and provided the most exciting options for the respective segments.
It is noteworthy that only a select few have high-tech essentials like blind spot monitoring and automatic emergency braking. These add-ons are often locked to higher trims on economy cars, but CR has already selected a few that have them standard.
How to Shop for New Cars and SUVs Under $30K
The first trick of sticking under $30K when shopping for a car is to say within a suitable body style. Its more possible to find a deal under $30K if you go with compact SUVs instead of buying mid or full-sized models. Shopping around will help, but staying within a chosen criteria will help you stay within budget throughout the whole endeavor.
Another important tip is to do your research and stick to your guns when it comes to choosing your next car. Don’t be blinded by bling and non-essential add-ons which are often added to cover up deal-breakers like lower reliability or performance issues like slower acceleration and the like. After narrowing the list down, search your area for available on the lot inventory so you can inspect and possibly test drive the cars before purchase.
Make sure that you test main features than the actual basic function of the car to help you decide what’s best. Its highly likely that you will like all options in your shortlist, so take the time to try or test each one before deciding on a final purchase. Its important to feel if the car suits you and your needs to avoid buyer’s remorse and financial losses that will happen if you decide to change to another vehicle.
Best Small Car Under $30K – Toyota Prius 2024

The Toyota Prius started out as the first true hybrid vehicle in North America, paving the way for very efficient and easy to maintain economy cars. The latest version has a sportier design compared to the boxier predecessor, so it looks less like an econobox and more like a premium product. It also boasts sharper handling and more power, along with a swooping front that improves visibility and overall safety.
Consumer Reports commented on how this new generation is quicker and more agile in the corners compared to the previous offering. They got 51 MPG out of the XLE AWD variant, so the base FWD models will surely get more per tank of gas. The Prius is also able to run on batteries alone at low speeds, but will instantly click on its ICE engine if you increase throttle.
Best Midsized Car Under $30K – Subaru Legacy

The Subaru Legacy has a healthy following because of its combination of comfort and power that can rival some luxury alternatives. The trims under $30K have a 182-HP 2.5L engine with up to 28 MPG overall and just the right oomph to get you where you need to be. It has a CVT transmission, but its operation closely mimics a conventional tranny, so it’s more reliable than other CVT designs.
The 2025 Legacy doesn’t have safety features like BSW and RCTW as standard, but it is optional. A nicely kitted unit with the aforementioned add-ons typically costs a little over $29000, so its still within the budget. Its not the biggest sedan out there, but it will comfortably transport five persons plus some cargo without issue.
Best Small SUV Under $30K – Subaru Crosstrek

SUVs tend to go well beyond $30K, but the Subaru Crosstrek changed that with a $25K starting price. It boasts a 2.0L engine that has plenty of power for cruising and leisure trips, all-wheel drive, and a raised, yet comfortable ride. Its one of the few compacts out there that can be taken offroad, making it a must-buy for thrill seekers and outdoor enthusiasts.
CR thinks that the Crosstrek is very responsive when it comes acceleration and handling, plus its very user-friendly. You get a practical interior with the sub-$30K trims, but some safety features like automatic braking are included with the base model. Its also one of the nicest looking cars that are built for adventure, so you win on all accounts if you go with this capable model.
Leave a Reply