Cheapest Sedans of 2022

Characteristics of the Cheapest Sedans

Sedans aren’t as popular as they once were, and to remain relevant in an age dominated by SUVs and crossovers, they have to do quite a few things right. Within the budget segment, they can afford to cut corners in some areas, but there are non-negotiable qualities a cheap sedan needs to have in order to be considered a top pick. These include:

• Affordability: To slot into this category, a sedan has to be, first and foremost, highly affordable. Not many other classifications have offerings under the $20k mark, and if they do, it usually means compromising too much on quality. Sacrifices in cargo and rear passenger space are more acceptable since these cars are best used as daily work commuters.
• Economy: Going hand-in-hand with a cheap purchase price is a low cost of ownership. Good gas mileage figures are essential, and it is for this reason that it’s often worthwhile paying a little more upfront in order to get your hands on a hybrid or possibly even an electric model. Due to the small size of cheaps sedans and their use of low-displacement engines, the extra weight of electric components doesn’t impact their economy as much.
• Dependability: Spending less on your car doesn’t mean much if you end up having to buy a new one every few years, so dependability is another essential trait. These sedans need to stand the test of time to earn their keep. Maintenance costs also need to be minimal, so cars with a low reliability rating are unacceptable.
• Safety: You can skimp on practicality, quality, and performance, but if there is one area that needs to be top-notch, it’s safety. Modern cars are coming with more and more advanced driver aids as standard, so it isn’t too much to expect at least the basics like forward collision warning with emergency braking.

What to Considering Before Buying a Cheap Sedan

Not everyone can afford a fancy car, and some people will buy from economy brands when looking for a second vehicle or buying their kids a first-time car. There are definite advantages to doing so, but it is to be expected that the cheapest sedans make sacrifices in some areas or cut corners in others. You need to accept the good with the bad, but knowing where these types of cars shine or fall short will help you get the best deal possible.

Pros

• Ultra-low starting price
• Minimal maintenance or repair costs
• Superior fuel economy figures
• Easy to drive and insure
• Reliable with decent resale value

Cons

• Poor performance
• Mediocre ride comfort
• Limited standard features

FAQs