Kia K4 LX
Compact sedan with a 2.0L engine and IVT. Kia lists five 2026 K4 trims, with the LX opening the lineup.
2026 budget car guide
Best new cars by budget
Start with your price ceiling, then narrow by body style and powertrain. Prices below are manufacturer-published starting MSRP and are not out-the-door prices.
MSRP can exclude destination/freight, taxes, registration, accessories and dealer charges. Always verify the current manufacturer configurator before buying.
Source checked
$22,290 MSRP
$22,825 MSRP
$23,125 MSRP
$24,695 MSRP
2026 picks under $25,000
Hyundai Elantra
Compact sedan with up to 40 MPG highway on the SE according to Hyundai's 2026 published figures.
Toyota Corolla
Gas or hybrid powertrains are available, with Toyota publishing up to 50 combined estimated MPG.
Compare Corolla vs Civic →Honda Civic LX
150-hp 2.0L engine; Honda publishes 32/41/36 city/highway/combined MPG for the LX. Hybrid trims are also available higher in the lineup.
View Civic →Under $30,000: more choices and hybrids
Honda Accord LX
A larger sedan that remains below $30K at its published starting MSRP; hybrid trims sit above the base gas model.
View Accord →Honda Civic Sport Hybrid
200-hp total system output and EPA ratings of 50/47/49 city/highway/combined MPG.
View Civic →Need a different starting point?
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