Buying a new vehicle is an exciting time for most car-owners. Whether you are a first-time buyer or are a veteran at the process, it is important to always make sure that you are making an informed choice on which cars serve your needs. Most car-buyers are looking to ensure that their vehicle brings good value-for-money and is guaranteed a reliable and long life span. Cars are depreciating assets, which makes it even more important that you consider all your options before purchasing a vehicle as you will not be able to sell it for the same price.
What should you consider when purchasing a new vehicle?
When it is time for you to purchase a new vehicle, several key factors need to be considered. Your budget is perhaps the most important thing to consider when looking at new models. Most experts recommend that you should not spend more than 20% of your monthly salary on a car repayment. Conservative buyers will even advise you to buy a vehicle in cash.
Top 5 non-luxury vehicles to buy in 2025
According to latest GoBankingRates’ report, these are the top five non-luxury vehicles to buy in 2025:
Honda Civic
The Honda Civic takes the top spot for the best non-luxury vehicle you can buy according to GoBankigRates. Honda is one of the most popular vehicles seen on the road, owing to their affordable entry prices and reliable models. The average price for a new Honda Civic is $27,564 with an expected lifespan of 13.7 years. If you are wanting a car which is durable and will last you many years, the Civic is the clear winner according to GoBankingReports.
Toyota Corolla
Another Japanese brand takes a podium position, the Toyota Corolla dominates vehicle presence on the road. Toyota is another brand which is known for their reliable and durable cars, while also ensuring cutting-edge technological development. The average price for a new Toyota Corolla is $25,218 with an expected lifespan of 11.6 years.
Mazda3 (Hatchback)
Clinching the final podium position, another famous Japanese company takes the spot. While Mazda’s competitors Honda and Toyota are clear dominators on a global scale, Mazda continues to be a highly respected company, delivering reliable and efficient vehicles. The average price listing of a Mazda3 hatchback is $31,849 dollars with an estimated lifespan of 14.1 years, slightly higher than top player the Honda Civic.
Honda Accord
Honda takes another position in the top five with their Accord model. Since its release in the US in 1975, over 15 million Honda Accord’s have been sold in the US, making it the third best-selling vehicle the US has ever seen. The average price-listing for the Acord is $30,659 with an expected lifespan of 13.1 years. While the Accord has seen total sales go down since the Covid-19 pandemic, it remains a favorite according to GoBankingRates.
Subaru Impreza (Wagon)
Taking the final position, and solidifying Japanese dominance when it comes to reliable and efficient non-luxury vehciles is the Subaru Impreza (Wagon). Known for fitting the offroad and outdoor lifestyle niche market in the automobile world, the average cost of a Subaru Impreza (Wagon) is $26,900 with an average lifespan of 11.2 years.
American brands may need to watch out
According to GoBankingRates data, Japanese dominance in the non-luxury automobile sector is clear. International automobile brands are dominating the roads, and American brands like Chevy and Ford should keep an eye on the strong competition. American companies like Tesla, while not making the top five, may not need to worry as much as their primary target market is within the luxury vehicle space. However, for companies who aim to target the general population, the rise in the popularity of these brands is more of a competition.
