If you thought the only way you could buy a new car was to save up $20,000 or $30,000, think again. For less than $15,000, you can drive away in a number of exciting, economical and, most importantly, affordable new car. Thanks to the writers at Netcars.com here is a comprehensive list of affordable new cars under $15,000.
1. Hyundai Accent – $14,695
Available in hatchback and sedan form, the Accent offers plenty of passenger room and cargo space along with plenty of standard equipment. The 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine belts out 138 horsepower while delivering up to 40 mpg on the highway and 30 mpg around town.
2. Chevrolet Spark – $12,245
As the newest, smallest and least expensive offering, the Chevy Spark is definitely making waves. The 1.2-liter four cylinder engine only delivers 85 horsepower, but its small, lightweight body and standard five-speed automatic gives it plenty of pep and an impressive 32/38 mpg.
3. Kia Soul – $13,900
When it comes to the Kia Soul, it’s hip to be square. The Soul offers an impressive 53 cubic feet of interior cargo space. Buyers can choose from a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with 138 horsepower or a more powerful 2.0-liter four-cylinder unit with 164 horsepower. The Soul is capable of achieving up to 20/36 mpg when properly equipped.
4. Mazda Mazda2 – $14,530
Despite its 1.5-liter, 100-horsepower four-cylinder motor, the Mazda2 more than makes up for the power deficit through sharp handling and at 29/35 mpg, above average fuel economy. The Mazda2 also comes with air conditioning, CD player, power windows and power door locks.
5. Toyota Yaris – $14,115
The Yaris is a solid choice for those looking for a reliable ride for under $15,000. The recent redesign didn’t affect its appearance much, but it led to considerable improvements under the skin. The 1.5-liter four-cylinder motor puts out 106 horsepower while returning up to 30/38 mpg.
6. Chevrolet Sonic – $14,765
A size larger than the Spark, the Sonic offers an upgrade in space, power and accommodations. Buyers can choose between a 138-horsepower 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine or a 1.4-liter turbocharged mill that offers the same horsepower, but more low-end torque and an impressive 29/40 mpg.
7. Ford Fiesta – $13,200
The Fiesta stands apart from other vehicles within its price range thanks to its nimble handling, excellent styling and the availability of Ford’s SYNC technology. Thanks to its 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine and six-speed dual-clutch automatic, it offers up to 29/40 mpg.
8. Kia Rio5 – $13,600
Just because it’s cheap doesn’t mean it has to look dull. Along with great looks, the Kia Rio5 also comes with plenty of standard features, a powerful 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine and up to 40 mpg on the highway when properly equipped.
9. Suzuki SX4 – $13,859
For less than $15,000, you get a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 150 horsepower and an EPA-estimated 23/29 mpg when equipped with the optional continuously variable automatic transmission.
10. Nissan Versa – $10,990
The Versa holds the distinction of being the cheapest vehicle on sale in the U.S. for several years running. It comes with standard features such as air conditioning and a CD player. The 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine puts out 109 horsepower and an EPA-estimated 30/38 mpg.
A big thank you has to go out to Louis Rix, automotive enthusiast and marketing director at Netcars.com, the UK’s leading used car classified website for contributing this fantastic article.