Least expensive cars of 2009
Most Americans are tightening their belts these days, so I figured I'd better hurry up and get my list of the least expensive new cars of 2009 ready to go. This year I've extended the list; last year's list had fifteen cars, this year's has twenty. And like last year, the purpose of the list is to tell you which cars are deals and which ones are duds.
Some interesting trends this year: The cheapest 2009 car costs $210 less than the cheapest 2008 car, but the average price of the top ten has risen by $72. Most of the cars that are repeats have risen in price, usually by several hundred dollars. Clearly, the automakers see profits in them thar small cars. But enough pontificating: Check out the list for yourself. (I've left the 2008 list on the site; you can see it here.)
The next list due for revision is my Top Ten Deals on Wheels list, a collection of cars that I think deliver great value for money. There are some new-for-2009 cars that deserve a place on the list, and a few older models that I overlooked. Got suggestions for the Deals On Wheels list or comments on the Cheap Cars list? Click the "comments" link below and let's hear about it. -- Aaron Gold
Photo © Hyundai
Comments
This is a great list though I would find it difficult to drop this kind of money on a new tin box when I could have a 2 year old “real car” for the same cash.
Also, if you use actual transaction prices rather than MSRP, the Cobalt slots in around #5 ro 6 and I would imagine the list order would otherwise change as well.
Back in the late 80s early 90s I remember seeing ads for the base model Dodge (Mitsubishi) Colt 200e for $9995. Then around 2002/2003, Chevy cleared out a whole bunch of base model Cavaliers for $9995. So are we getting more for our automotive dollar now?
Note to Aaron: I’d be interested to know in the cars that don’t come with a radio if they have the capability to add a third-party stereo. Some cars have weird-shaped consoles that will only accomodate an OEM unit.
I like your top 10 list. You really did pick some winners.
It really is about value for dollars spent. If you are a buyer looking for low price and value the Nissan Versa is a car that will give you a lot more than the others for $$ spent.
If your budget can afford it the Chevy Corvette gives you the most for the buck in its class. Still has the eye appeal the ride and of course wicked fast performance.
Now if your and exotic junkie and have always wanted the Ferrari,Lamborghini type car but $$250/K is to-steep for a super car then the Audi R-8 fits the bill to a tea. Aggressive styling,high performance,and best of all it’s mild mannered enough to drive every day. All that and it rides on the Lamborghini suspension and sells for less than 1/2 the super car pricing !!!
Not all will agree but these are good examples of value for $$ paid…
I’m curious as to how well those Smart rollerskates, I mean cars, are selling? Don’t misunderstand though, I would NEVER buy one but I have only seen 2 so far. One guy whiteknuckling it down the freeway and one around town.
Good list…though it’s too bad the new Fit priced itself out of it. Nonetheless, in my estimation the Yaris is the clear champ for warmer climates and the SX4 is for the Minnesota climate drivers. I think the resale and reliability of the Yaris are impossible for the other to match and the SX4’s snow capability is formidable at that price.