For some people, hearing the term cheap new cars brings to mind “low-quality vehicles”. What they might not be aware of is that there are actually budget-friendly vehicles that offer reliability, safety and modern features. This means that in Australia, there are cars that are both affordable and of decent quality.
In this article, we will prove that affordability doesn’t necessarily equate to a lack of quality. Currently, several new cars provide consumers with excellent value without compromising on design, features and usability. Some of those are listed here.
So, what makes a car both affordable and high-quality? Read on to access some of the top choices in the Australian market and get tips on selecting the right low-cost vehicle for your budget.
What Makes a Car ‘Cheap but Quality’?
Several factors contribute to a car being both affordable and of high quality:
- Efficient Manufacturing – Automakers often reduce costs by streamlining production processes and using cost-effective materials without sacrificing durability.
- Compact Design – Smaller vehicles typically require fewer materials and are more fuel-efficient, leading to lower production and ownership costs.
- Essential Features – Focusing on essential features rather than luxury add-ons helps keep prices down while maintaining functionality and comfort.
Quality in affordable cars is indicated by:
- High Safety Ratings – A strong safety record ensures that affordability doesn’t come at the expense of passenger protection. You can independently assess safety ratings in NSW, QLD, Victoria, and WA for such vehicles.
- Brand Reputation – Manufacturers known for reliability and customer satisfaction often extend these qualities to their budget models.
- Low Maintenance Costs – Affordable cars with durable components and widespread availability of parts reduce long-term ownership expenses.
Top Cheap New Cars in Australia (2025 Edition)
Kia Picanto Sport ($18,290+ on-road costs)
- Considered Australia’s cheapest new car, perfect for city driving.
- Offers great fuel efficiency, a touchscreen with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and safety features like autonomous emergency braking.
- Backed by Kia’s seven-year unlimited-kilometre warranty.
MG 3 Excite ($21,888 drive-away – promo price)
- Budget-friendly hatchback with a 10.25-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and premium audio.
- Equipped with advanced safety features like autonomous emergency braking and lane departure warning.
- Comes with MG’s seven-year unlimited-kilometre warranty.
Suzuki Swift Hybrid Plus ($24,490 drive-away)
- A fuel-efficient hybrid averaging 4.6L/100km with an engaging drive.
- Features a nine-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay, plus modern safety tech.
- Known for reliability and low running costs.
Chery Tiggo 4 Pro Urban ($23,990 drive-away)
- Affordable compact SUV with a roomy interior and essential features.
- Includes a touchscreen infotainment system, reverse camera and key safety tech.
- A strong option for budget-conscious SUV buyers.
Hyundai Venue (Under $30,000)
- Compact SUV with a comfortable ride, good boot space and modern connectivity.
- Standard features include an eight-inch touchscreen, forward collision-avoidance assist and lane-keeping assist.
- Backed by Hyundai’s five-year unlimited-kilometre warranty.
Tips for Choosing the Right Low-Cost Car for Your Budget
Selecting an affordable car that meets your needs requires careful consideration. Here are some tips to guide your decision:
1. Set Your Budget
Determine how much you’re willing to spend, including on-road costs, insurance and future expenses like fuel and maintenance. This holistic approach ensures you choose a car that fits your financial situation.
2. Prioritise Your Needs
Identify what you need most in a vehicle. Do you require a compact car for city driving or is a larger vehicle necessary for family use? Understanding your priorities helps narrow down options.
3. Access to Additional Funds
Ensure the car has strong safety ratings from reputable organisations like ANCAP. Features such as autonomous emergency braking and lane-keeping assist are valuable in enhancing safety.
4. Consider Fuel Efficiency
Fuel-efficient cars reduce running costs. For example, hybrid models offer excellent fuel economy, making them cost-effective over time.
5. Evaluate Maintenance and Warranty
Research the manufacturer’s warranty and typical maintenance costs. Brands offering extended warranties and affordable servicing can save you money in the long run.
Cheap New Cars: Finding the Right One with Muscle Money
Choosing from this year’s lineup of cheap new cars, all of which offer both quality and affordability, doesn’t have to be a challenge. With the options mentioned above, Australian buyers can enjoy reliability, safety and modern features without breaking the bank. By prioritising your budget, safety ratings and long-term costs, you can find the perfect vehicle that suits your lifestyle.
No matter which cheap yet high-quality car you decide on, Muscle Money is here to help you secure a competitive car loan. With access to flexible financing options and expert advice, we make it easier for you to drive away in your ideal budget-friendly car. Get in touch with Muscle Money today and take the next step toward owning a reliable, affordable new car!
Disclaimer: Please note that the prices listed here are subject to change according to specific factors, with some drive-away prices varying by state or promotional offers. You should also note that we are in no way advertising these vehicles but rather using them as examples to show that there are low-cost, decent-quality rides out there for you to consider.
Caleb Waye-Harris, Senior Manager of Asset Finance at Muscle Money, has almost 15 years of relevant experience in the finance industry. His extensive background includes project management, consumer and commercial lending and asset-based lending.
