10 Best Cheap Toyota Cars You Can Buy in 2024
If you're looking for affordable Toyota cars that won't break the bank and still deliver on reliability and efficiency you're in the right place! Whether you're a first-time car buyer a college student or just someone who wants to save some bucks these Toyota models have got you covered. Let's dive into the 10 best cheap Toyota cars that offer great value for money in 2024.
1. Toyota Corolla
- Fuel Efficiency: The Toyota Corolla is renowned for its excellent fuel efficiency which is a huge win if you’re trying to save on gas
- Affordable Price: With a starting price that’s easy on the wallet the Corolla is a fantastic option for budget-conscious drivers
- Reliability: The Corolla has a long-standing reputation for being one of the most reliable cars on the market
- Interior: It might not be luxury but the interior is comfortable and well-designed
Potential Drawbacks
- Performance: The engine power might leave you feeling like you’re in slow motion especially on highways
- Space: While the front seats are comfy the back seats can feel a bit cramped especially for taller passengers
2. Toyota Yaris
- Compact Size: The Toyota Yaris is perfect for city driving with its compact size making it easy to maneuver and park
- Great Fuel Economy: Another fuel-efficient champ the Yaris will keep you away from the gas station for longer periods
- Affordable Maintenance: The maintenance costs of the Yaris are relatively low making it a smart choice for budget-minded drivers
- User-Friendly Features: Simple intuitive controls that won’t overwhelm you
Potential Drawbacks
- Interior Materials: The plastic-heavy interior might remind you of your old lunchbox from high school
- Acceleration: Don’t expect to win any drag races the Yaris is built for efficiency not speed
3. Toyota Camry
- Spacious Interior: The Toyota Camry offers a roomy cabin that’s perfect for families or anyone who values space
- Smooth Ride: Known for its smooth and quiet ride the Camry is a pleasure to drive on long road trips
- Long-Term Reliability: A car that you can count on to last for years with minimal issues
- High Resale Value: When you’re ready to upgrade the Camry’s high resale value is a nice bonus
Potential Drawbacks
- Design: Some might say the design is as exciting as a loaf of bread but hey bread is reliable!
- Price: It’s on the higher end of “cheap” but still a great value for what you get
4. Toyota Prius
- Fuel Efficiency King: The Toyota Prius is the go-to hybrid for those looking to maximize fuel savings
- Eco-Friendly: Great for environmentally conscious drivers who want to reduce their carbon footprint
- Spacious Hatchback Design: Offers more cargo space than you’d expect from a hybrid
- Technology: Packed with tech features like a touchscreen display and advanced safety systems
Potential Drawbacks
- Performance: With the Prius don’t expect to feel the “wind in your hair” kind of speed it’s more of a breeze
- Design: Some say it looks like a science project that got a little out of hand
5. Toyota C-HR
- Stylish Design: The Toyota C-HR stands out with its bold and edgy design which is not common in this price range
- Compact SUV: Offers the higher driving position of an SUV with the convenience of a compact car
- Safety Features: Comes loaded with standard safety features which is a big plus for an affordable car
- Comfortable Interior: The interior is stylish and comfortable with decent materials for the price
Potential Drawbacks
- Rear Visibility: The C-HR’s design might make you feel like you’re driving a submarine with the periscope down
- Cargo Space: It’s an SUV but don’t plan on fitting your whole apartment in there
6. Toyota RAV4 (Older Models)
- Versatility: The Toyota RAV4 is perfect for those who want a little more space and capability without breaking the bank
- Off-Road Capability: Older models of the RAV4 can handle some light off-roading which is great for adventure seekers
- Durability: Built to last the RAV4 is known for its robust build quality
- Family-Friendly: Plenty of room for passengers and cargo
Potential Drawbacks
- Fuel Economy: Older models might be a bit thirsty compared to newer cars
- Handling: Driving the RAV4 can sometimes feel like steering a boat on land
7. Toyota Avalon (Used Models)
- Luxury on a Budget: The Toyota Avalon offers a touch of luxury at a fraction of the price
- Spacious Interior: Roomy and comfortable perfect for long drives
- Smooth Ride: The Avalon is known for its smooth and comfortable ride quality
- Advanced Features: Even older models come with a host of features that make driving a pleasure
Potential Drawbacks
- Fuel Economy: You might want to be on first-name terms with your gas station attendant
- Size: The Avalon’s size makes it a bit tricky to maneuver in tight spaces
8. Toyota Tacoma (Older Models)
- Reliable Truck: The Toyota Tacoma is a fantastic option if you need a truck that won’t cost an arm and a leg
- Off-Road Ready: Known for its off-road capabilities the Tacoma is great for outdoor enthusiasts
- Durable Build: This truck is built to take a beating and keep on going
- Resale Value: The Tacoma holds its value well so it’s a solid investment
Potential Drawbacks
- Ride Comfort: It’s a truck so don’t expect it to feel like a luxury sedan
- Fuel Efficiency: Trucks aren’t known for sipping fuel and the Tacoma is no exception
9. Toyota Matrix
- Versatile Hatchback: The Toyota Matrix offers the convenience of a hatchback with the reliability of a Toyota
- Great for City Driving: Compact size and good visibility make it easy to navigate through city streets
- Affordable Maintenance: Low maintenance costs make it a good choice for budget-conscious buyers
- Fuel Efficiency: Decent fuel economy that won’t drain your wallet
Potential Drawbacks
- Interior Quality: The interior might make you feel like you’re back in the 2000s but hey nostalgia right
- Power: The Matrix isn’t going to win any races but it’ll get you from point A to point B
10. Toyota Sienna (Older Models)
- Family-Friendly: The Toyota Sienna is the ultimate budget minivan with plenty of room for the whole family
- Durability: Known for being a long-lasting vehicle that can handle years of family use
- Comfortable Ride: Smooth and comfortable ride quality perfect for road trips
- Spacious Interior: Tons of space for passengers and cargo
Potential Drawbacks
- Fuel Economy: Minivans aren’t exactly known for fuel efficiency and the Sienna is no exception
- Size: It’s a big vehicle so parking might feel like a game of Tetris
FAQs about Best Cheap Toyota Cars
Q: What is the most affordable Toyota car?
A: The Toyota Yaris is often the most affordable new Toyota model but used Toyota models like the Toyota Matrix can be even cheaper.
Q: Are older Toyota models reliable?
A: Yes older Toyota models like the Toyota Tacoma and Toyota Camry are known for their reliability and durability.
Q: Which Toyota car is the most fuel-efficient?
A: The Toyota Prius is the most fuel-efficient Toyota car especially if you’re looking at hybrid options.
Q: Is the Toyota Corolla a good first car?
A: Absolutely! The Toyota Corolla is a great first car due to its reliability affordability and ease of maintenance.
Q: How does the Toyota Camry compare to the Toyota Avalon?
A: The Toyota Camry is more affordable while the Toyota Avalon offers a more luxurious experience but at a higher price.
Q: Can I find a reliable used Toyota for under $10,000?
A: Yes models like the Toyota Matrix or older Toyota Corolla can be found for under $10,000 and are still reliable.
Q: What’s the best Toyota car for city driving?
A: The Toyota Yaris or Toyota Matrix are excellent choices for city driving due to their compact size and maneuverability.
Q: Which Toyota car has the best resale value?
A: The Toyota Tacoma is known for having one of the best resale values among all Toyota models.
Q: Is the Toyota RAV4 good for off-roading?
A: Older models of the Toyota RAV4 have decent off-road capabilities though they’re not as rugged as the Toyota Tacoma.
Q: How does the Toyota Sienna compare to other minivans?
A: The Toyota Sienna offers great reliability and comfort making it a strong contender among budget-friendly minivans.
Q: What’s the downside of buying an older Toyota?
A: While reliable older Toyotas may lack modern features and might not be as fuel-efficient as newer models.
Q: Is the Toyota Prius worth it if I don’t drive much?
A: If you’re focused on fuel savings and eco-friendliness the Toyota Prius is still a great choice even for shorter commutes.
Q: Do Toyota cars have high maintenance costs?
A: Generally no Toyotas are known for having low maintenance costs compared to other brands.
Q: Can you fit a lot in a Toyota C-HR?
A: The Toyota C-HR has decent cargo space for its size but don’t expect to move your whole house with it.
Q: Are Toyotas safe?
A: Yes most Toyota models come with advanced safety features even on their more affordable cars.
If you’re still on the fence about which Toyota model to choose you can check out this guide on the best cheap Toyota cars. According to Alex Collantes the owner of Avenue Motors “Toyota cars are the best blend of affordability reliability and low maintenance cost—it’s hard to go wrong with any model you choose.”