Best Sedans Under $40,000 for 2024 and 2025

When shopping for a sedan under $40,000, you’ll find numerous options blending affordability with innovative features. The 2024 Honda Civic, for example, impresses with its compact size and fuel efficiency, particularly with its new hybrid model. Alternatively, the 2025 Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing offers cutting-edge technology and high performance without forcing you to go over budget, showcasing its versatility.

Purchasing a sedan in this price range no longer means sacrificing essential features or comfort. Models like these come equipped with advanced driver assistance systems to enhance safety and connected services for a more intuitive driving experience. The interiors are designed for comfort, ensuring that each drive is enjoyable and sophisticated.

2024 Honda Accord Hybrid

MotoPickers Rating: 7.4/10

The 2024 Honda Accord Hybrid, redesigned last year, starts at $32,895 and offers a well-balanced midsize sedan experience. It features a 204-horsepower hybrid system with front-wheel drive (FWD) that’s responsive and efficient, boasting an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 46-51 city MPG and 41-44 highway MPG.

Inside, the Accord Hybrid boasts a spacious cabin that comfortably seats five, combining user-friendly technology like an available 12.3” display with materials that bridge luxury and practicality. The car excels in safety, with the Honda Sensing software suite containing six advanced driver-assistance features, including Traffic Sign Recognition. Four of the 2024 Accord’s six trims are hybrids, increasing the accessibility of electrification for various budgets.

2025 Honda Civic

MotoPickers Rating: 7.5/10

The 2025 Honda Civic, which is expected to start at around $26,000, excels in the compact car segment with sporty handling and a luxury-grade interior. It comfortably seats five passengers and stands out in its class by offering exceptional fuel efficiency. Honda claims the model can achieve up to 50 MPG combined.

Available as both a sedan and a hatchback, the Civic caters to various styles and practicality preferences. Engine options include an all-new 200-horsepower hybrid powertrain, with all trims utilizing a smooth front-wheel drive (FWD) system. Despite a base engine that some might find modest at 158 horsepower, the Civic compensates with agile handling and a well-appointed cabin, ensuring a premium driving experience that underscores its competitive edge.

2024 Hyundai Ioniq 6

MotoPickers Rating: 7.6/10

Hyundai’s Ioniq 6 enters the electric vehicle (EV) market with a starting price of $37,500. The sedan offers a range of 168 to 320 horsepower with options for RWD or AWD, allowing for a balanced ride that suits everyday efficiency and spirited driving.

Inside, the Ioniq 6 showcases Hyundai’s dedication to comfort and style, featuring a visually attractive cabin equipped with a 12.3” digital instrument cluster and advanced safety features like Lane Keeping Assist. Although the cargo space and rear headroom may be slightly constrained, these are minor concessions when considering the vehicle’s overall efficiency, range, and performance, which includes a driving range of 111-153 City and 94-127 Hwy MPGe.

2024 Honda Civic Si

MotoPickers Rating: 7.6/10

The 2024 Civic Si, starting at $29,100, delivers powerful performance with a turbocharged 1.5-liter engine that produces 200 horsepower and 192 lb-ft of torque, ensuring robust, thrilling dynamics. True to its enthusiast appeal, the Civic Si features a six-speed manual transmission equipped with a rev-match feature that simplifies downshifts, allowing drivers to engage with or without the system based on their preference.

In addition to its dynamic powertrain, the Civic Si enhances its driving experience with larger brake rotors than the standard Civic and a firmer suspension setup for sharper handling. This combination maintains ride comfort while offering precision on twisty roads, even without adaptive dampers. Stylistically, the Civic Si stands out with its gloss-black decklid spoiler and 18” matte-black alloy wheels. It also excels in fuel efficiency and comfort, making it an appealing choice with 27 MPG in the city and 37 MPG on the highway.

2024 Toyota Prius Prime

MotoPickers Rating: 8.1/10

The 2024 Toyota Prius Prime, priced from $32,975, stands out in the sub-$40,000 sedan category with its plug-in hybrid powertrain. This setup delivers lively acceleration and ranks highly in fuel economy, offering an electric range of 114-127 MPGe and a combined gas mileage of 48-52 MPG. The Prius Prime’s performance is anchored by a robust 220-horsepower engine, ensuring prompt responses.

Inside, the Prius Prime focuses on comfort, though the rear seating can be tight, especially regarding headroom. Opting for this model means accessing a comprehensive safety and tech features package, reinforcing its strong value proposition. With its efficient powertrain and thoughtful inclusion of features, the Prius Prime proves to be a compelling choice in the competitive hybrid sedan market.

2024 Hyundai Elantra

MotoPickers Rating: 8.2/10

The 2024 Hyundai Elantra, starting at $21,625, offers an appealing blend of value, style, and functionality for those seeking affordability without sacrificing quality. It distinguishes itself with sharp exterior updates like a new sleek front-running LED light and a spacious interior. The cabin has a generous suite of standard features like an 8” user-friendly infotainment display. Drivers can upgrade to the available 10.25” display for greater accessibility.

Under the hood, the Elantra is powered by a 147 horsepower engine with FWD, providing balanced dynamics and an impressive fuel economy of 31-32 MPG in the city and 40-41 MPG on the highway. Safety is a priority with advanced features like Blind-Spot Collision Warning and Driver Attention Warning to monitor alertness and enhance security. Though the cabin design might not appeal to all, the Elantra’s capacity to comfortably seat five makes it a practical and versatile choice for varied lifestyles.

2024 Toyota Prius

MotoPickers Rating: 8.7/10

The 2024 Toyota Prius starts at $27,950 and excels as a stylish, fuel-efficient sedan ideal for those prioritizing value. It boasts impressive fuel efficiency, with 49-57 MPG in the city and 50-56 MPG on the highway, significantly reducing gas station visits. The Prius ensures a smooth ride with its responsive handling, powered by a 194-horsepower FWD powertrain, with an option to upgrade to 196-horsepower with AWD.

Inside, it features a suite of user-friendly tech in its 12.3” infotainment system, though it trades some comfort for technology with snug back seats. Safety is a crucial asset, with advanced driver-assist systems like the Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert establishing it as a secure choice for daily commutes and longer trips. The 2024 Toyota Prius stands out in the competitive market by offering a broad array of features for its price.

2024 Volkswagen Jetta GLI

MotoPickers Rating: 8.8/10

Starting at $27,995, the 2024 Volkswagen Jetta GLI maintains Volkswagen’s blend of style, performance, and value in a sports sedan. It features a robust 228-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a standard six-speed manual transmission, promoting driver engagement and control. Despite its focus on performance, the Jetta GLI does not compromise comfort. It offers a premium interior with available Autobahn trim, including leather upholstery and heated and ventilated power front seats.

The Autobahn trim enhances the Jetta GLI with advanced features like a 10.3” digital gauge cluster and wireless charging. It also boasts a high-quality BeatsAudio sound system and a panoramic sunroof, enriching the driving atmosphere. For enthusiasts, the limited 40th Anniversary model features exclusive badging and special cloth seats, presenting an appealing option at a great value. Additionally, buyers can choose between the manual or an optional automatic transmission.

2024 Hyundai Sonata

MotoPickers Rating: 9.0/10

The refreshed 2024 Hyundai Sonata starts at $27,500. It introduces design changes like distinctive daytime running lights that span the front bumper and revamped tail lights. Under the hood, the standard Sonata features a 191-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, while the performance-oriented N Line sports a 290-horsepower turbocharged engine. Adding AWD with the base engine enhances its adaptability across various driving conditions.

Inside, Hyundai elevates the Sonata with dual 12.3” infotainment displays on a curved mount, a new steering wheel design, and a relocated gear selector shaped as a tidy knob near the steering column. Its impressive combined fuel efficiency at 47 MPG in the hybrid model makes it a sensible choice for those looking to maximize economy. Backed by a robust warranty, the Sonata is a stylish, feature-packed contender in the midsize sedan market.

2024 Volkswagen Jetta

MotoPickers Rating: 9.1/10

The 2024 Jetta, starting at $21,345, offers a quiet and smooth ride, enhancing comfort during daily commutes and solidifying its reputation for reliability and value in the compact car segment. It comfortably seats five, and its thoughtful, functional design extends to its generous passenger and cargo space, ensuring convenience on every journey.

Under the hood, the Jetta ranges from a 158 horsepower standard engine to a 228 horsepower option in higher trims while achieving 29-30 MPG in the city and 40-42 MPG on the highway. For 2024, all Jetta models now include a standard set of driver-assistance features, enhancing safety across the board. Despite its virtues, the Jetta’s cabin aesthetics and smaller 6.5” infotainment system might not satisfy all, particularly tech enthusiasts. While the standard Jetta handles well, those seeking a more dynamic driving experience might prefer the sportier Jetta GLI, especially in its 40th Anniversary Edition.

Frequently Asked Questions

In this section, you’ll find targeted information about the best sedans under $40,000 for the years 2024 and 2025, answering some of the most common inquiries from buyers.

What are the top-rated new sedans for 2024 within a $40,000 budget?

The 2024 Honda Civic is a sub-$40,000 sedan excelling in style and efficiency, featuring a hybrid model achieving up to 36 MPG combined.

It’s complemented by the 2024 Honda Accord, which also offers a hybrid option and blends comfort with robust performance.

Which luxury sedans under $40,000 should buyers consider for the 2025 model year?

The 2025 Kia K5 sets itself apart in the luxury segment with premium features under $40,000.

It includes advanced driver assistance systems like Auto Emergency Braking and high-quality interior materials, combining value and splendor.

Can you find a high-performing sports sedan for under $40,000 in 2024?

Performance-focused buyers will appreciate the Honda Civic Touring Sedan’s turbocharged 1.5L I4 engine, which provides an engaging drive with sporty suspension.

It achieves an impressive 31 MPG city and 38 MPG highway fuel economy.

What are the most reliable sedan models available under $40,000 as of 2024?

Reliability ratings confirm the Honda Accord and Hyundai Elantra as dependable choices, with the Elantra delivering a combined fuel economy of 23-54 MPG.

Both models are additionally known for their cost-effective maintenance.

Are there any American-made sedans under $40,000 that are recommended for 2024?

Chevrolet and Tesla are two automakers that offer compelling sedan options under $40,000 in 2024.

Chevrolet’s 2024 Malibu starts at $26,195 and Tesla’s 2024 Model 3 at 38,990.

What features are common in sedans under $40,000 that are categorized as best in class for 2024?

Sedans in this category feature adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and comprehensive infotainment systems with smartphone integration.

They also prioritize fuel efficiency and cabin comfort, providing spacious interiors and adjustable seating for enhanced ergonomics.