Most new cars cost $50,000 or more, which makes finding reliable transportation under $25,000 harder every year. GOBankingRates asked Chris Pyle, a JustAnswer auto expert, which budget cars will actually make it to 200,000 miles if you take care of them properly.
He gave us a list of seven vehicles based on their track records and engineering improvements, with a warning that it’s too early to know for sure how 2026 models will hold up since they haven’t been on the road long enough to rack up high mileage yet.
The Reality About Hitting 200K Miles
Pyle explained that many cars can get to 200,000 miles as long as the person behind the wheel takes care of the car and drives it correctly. The $25,000 spending limit narrows the field, but based on prior history and technology advancements, these are his picks.
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1. Chevy Trax Gets You in Under $22,000
The Chevy Trax starts around $21,700 and offers surprising value for a domestic brand vehicle. It uses a turbocharged 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine producing 137 horsepower, which sounds small but delivers adequate power for a car this size.
The redesigned Trax looks far better than the previous generation and comes with an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and 17-inch wheels as standard equipment.
2. Kia K4 Replaces the Forte With Better Style
The all-new Kia K4 starts around $23,145 and brings upscale design elements to the compact sedan segment. It features a 147-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with a CVT transmission and achieves 34 combined mpg.
The K4 gets a 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless connectivity, adaptive cruise control, and Kia’s industry-leading five-year, 60,000-mile warranty as standard.
3. Hyundai Elantra Starts at $23,870
The Hyundai Elantra delivers style and features at $23,870 for the base SE trim. It uses a 141-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder with a CVT and achieves up to 36 combined mpg with front-wheel drive.
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, which is rare at this price point. The Elantra also includes Hyundai’s five-year, 60,000-mile warranty.
4. Mazda 3 Brings Premium Feel to Budget Pricing
The Mazda 3 competes directly with the Civic and Corolla with similar pricing around $25,000. It offers available all-wheel drive and a more refined driving experience than most budget compact cars.
The Mazda 3’s interior feels more upscale than competitors in this price range, and its sporty handling sets it apart from more appliance-like rivals.
5. Kia Seltos Dropped Its Price by $1,500
The Kia Seltos starts at $23,690 for 2026 after Kia cut the base price by $1,500. Add the $1,395 destination fee and you’re still just over $25,000 for a subcompact SUV with a 2.0-liter engine making 147 horsepower.
The Seltos achieves 31 combined mpg with front-wheel drive and comes with a 10.25-inch touchscreen on most trims plus Kia’s excellent warranty coverage.
6. Toyota Corolla Remains the Reliability Standard
The Toyota Corolla starts at $22,925 for the 2026 LE sedan and continues its reputation as one of the most reliable cars ever built. The 2.0-liter four-cylinder produces 169 horsepower and achieves 35 combined mpg.
The Corolla hybrid starts around $25,970 with destination and delivers 50 combined mpg, making it one of the most efficient non-plug-in cars you can buy.
7. Honda Civic Proves Reliability Still Matters
The Honda Civic is just over $25,000 at around $25,890 for 2026, but it’s worth mentioning because it consistently ranks as one of the most reliable compact cars you can buy. It uses a 2.0-liter four-cylinder making 150 horsepower in base form, or you can upgrade to the hybrid with 200 combined horsepower.
The Civic achieves 34 to 36 combined mpg with the standard engine and up to 49 combined mpg with the hybrid powertrain. RepairPal gives it a reliability rating of 4.5 out of 5, ranking it third among compact cars.
The Key Is Maintenance Not Just the Model
Pyle’s list focuses on cars with proven track records, but he stressed that reaching 200,000 miles depends on how you drive and maintain the vehicle. Follow the service schedule, change the oil on time and don’t abuse the drivetrain.
At these prices, you’re getting basic reliable transportation with modern safety features and decent fuel economy. None of these cars will impress your friends, but they’ll all get you to work and back for years without major problems.
The choice comes down to what body style you want and which brand’s warranty gives you the most peace of mind.
Editor’s note: Photos are for representational purposes only and might not reflect the exact year, make or model of the vehicle(s) listed in this article.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 7 Cars Under $25K That Will Last 200,000+ Miles in 2026
