Best New Cars and SUVs for Under $30,000
These top performers cost less than the average new car
Hyundai Kona
By Jon Linkov
Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, cars were becoming increasingly expensive to buy and own. But the manufacturing shutdown of vehicles and components that initially caused a ripple effect in the supply-demand curve of new and used vehicles continues to cause headaches for buyers. Inventories are low, automakers are building more expensive (i.e., profitable) vehicles at the expense of cheaper ones, and dealerships are tacking "price adjustments" onto the more popular cars, SUVs, and trucks. The result is that the average price of a new vehicle was over $47,000 in June 2022, according to Kelley Blue Book.
Still, there are many excellent vehicles that have an MSRP of far less than that. To assist bargain hunters, we assembled the best new cars and SUVs under $30,000 based on their Overall Score, factoring in road-test performance, owner satisfaction, predicted reliability, and safety.
All come with standard forward collision warning (FCW) and automatic emergency braking (AEB). Blind spot warning (BSW) either comes standard or as an option that doesn’t push the price above $30,000. That’s why you won’t see some top-scoring models such as the Honda Accord on this list. Some automakers have said they are not installing all features on every vehicle trim because of supply-chain constraints. The Chevrolet Equinox is not on the list because BSW may not be equipped on some LS and LT models even if the option package is chosen.
Some of these models have our Green Choice designation, which highlights the vehicles with the cleanest emissions.
The cars, sporty cars, and SUVs below (listed in alphabetical order by class) have all met the stringent performance, reliability, and safety requirements necessary to earn CR’s recommendation. The best in the class is highlighted with a photo and profile.
Click the model names for road-test results, information on reliability and pricing, and much more.
Best Small Car: Nissan Sentra
2022 Nissan Sentra
The Sentra was transformed in its 2020 redesign, shedding its dowdy look and overall driving mediocrity to become one of the best sedans in its class. The engine and transmission are a pleasant combination that provides unobtrusive acceleration and returns 32 mpg overall. The more sophisticated rear suspension facilitates a comfortable ride and nimble handling. The interior looks upscale, and buyers can even get a power seat, leather upholstery, and heated seats. We found the rear seat to be relatively roomy, and the infotainment system is easy to use. All trims have Android Auto and Apple CarPlay capabilities. Nissan’s Safety Shield 360 is standard and includes FCW, AEB with pedestrian detection, and BSW.
Other Top Models
Honda Civic
Honda Insight
Hyundai Elantra
Hyundai Elantra Hybrid
Hyundai Venue
Mazda3
Nissan Kicks
Nissan Versa
Toyota Corolla
Toyota Prius
Volkswagen Jetta
Best Midsized Car: Subaru Legacy
2022 Subaru Legacy
The Legacy provides a super-comfortable ride that outshines that of some luxury cars. Handling is responsive but not sporty. This AWD sedan is fitted with a choice of two four-cylinder engines: a 182-hp, 2.5-liter and a 260-hp, turbocharged 2.4-liter. The standard engine is adequate but makes an unpleasant roar when pushed. It provides a decent 28 mpg overall. The turbo version delivers strong acceleration and is quieter. We like that the well-tuned CVT mimics the shift patterns of conventional automatics. The large infotainment screen requires users to wade into menus to perform some common tasks, and the system can be slow to respond to inputs. Standard active safety and driver assist features include FCW and AEB with pedestrian detection, but BSW and RCTW are optional, but adding them to the Premium trim keeps the MSRP under $27,000.
Other Top Models
Hyundai Sonata
Kia K5
Mazda6
Nissan Altima
Toyota Camry
Volkswagen Passat
Best Sporty Car: Mazda MX-5 Miata
2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata
The fourth-generation Miata remains true to Mazda’s original formula of a lightweight rear-wheel-drive roadster. It quickly scoots along while returning good fuel economy. Shifting the delightfully accurate six-speed manual shifter is a joy. We’d skip the optional automatic transmission; it works fine but dilutes the driving experience. Quick and precise steering delivers sublime back-road handling, even though some body roll is noticeable. Flipping the convertible top open or closed is a breeze. FCW, AEB, and BSW are standard on all trims.
Another Top Model
Honda Civic Si
Best Small SUV: Subaru Forester
2022 Subaru Forester
This popular small SUV delivers a combination of a roomy interior, excellent visibility, commendable fuel economy, simple controls, a comfortable ride, and responsive handling. The 2.5-liter four-cylinder combined with the continuously variable automatic transmission yielded best-in-class fuel economy. But acceleration isn’t exhilarating, and the engine’s noise isn’t the most pleasant. The cabin is roomy, with a particularly generous rear seat and very easy access. The controls are simple to use, including an infotainment system that’s also compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The EyeSight suite with FCW, AEB, LDW, and LKA is standard, but BSW is not available on the base version and is optional on the Premium trim, which comes in at less than $30,000 before the destination charge.
Other Top Models
Buick Encore GX
Chevrolet Trailblazer
Ford Bronco Sport
Honda CR-V
Hyundai Kona
Hyundai Tucson
Kia Sportage
Mazda CX-30
Mazda CX-5
Mazda CX-50
Nissan Rogue Sport
Subaru Crosstrek
Toyota RAV4
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