It’s no secret that cars can be a costly necessity. Currently, the average price for a new car is an estimated $47,962. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or simply looking to maximize your savings, the right car should offer both affordability and performance, and American automakers offer some of the best options on the market.
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GOBankingRates spoke to two experts to get some recommendations on the best American-made vehicles that are great options for frugal car buys this year.
Ford Escape
2025 MSRP: $31,010 to $39,005
The Ford Escape is a popular compact and small SUV, and it comes with standard driver-assist technologies, like lane-keeping assist and automated emergency braking.
“Ford Escapes tend to be offered at a reasonable price,” said Caleb Bryan, general sales manager at Brad Manning Ford in DeKalb, Illinois. “They have standard all-wheel drive across the board and nice luxury features.”
While it may not be the cheapest car, you can find older, gently used models for much less. This car’s fuel efficiency, gas mileage and reliability make it a solid pick and good deal for families and solo drivers alike.
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Chevrolet Traverse
2025 MSRP: $42,195 to $55,595
The Chevrolet Traverse is a popular midsize SUV that offers plenty of space and a dependable track record. David Rodriguez, an experienced auto mechanic who works at a shop specializing in brakes and suspension services in the Midwest, recommended the Traverse for personal and practical reasons.
“My family and I actually have had this car since 2017 and other than usual wear and tear, it’s been a great vehicle,” Rodriguez said. He said he bought the car with 30,000 miles on it for around $25,000.
“Since then, we’ve added 90,000 more miles on the car and have had minimal maintenance costs,” he explained. “While it may not be the most fuel-efficient option, its durability and affordability make it a solid frugal buy.”
Ford Maverick
2025 MSRP: $29,840 to $43,120
If you’re looking for an affordable truck, the Ford Maverick is hard to beat. “It’s one of the best options if you’re wanting the most value for the money in terms of a well-equipped truck for under $30,000,” Bryan said. The Maverick offers great utility, impressive fuel efficiency and a low starting price, making it ideal for budget-conscious truck buyers.
GMC Acadia
2025 MSRP: $44,495 to $55,595
The GMC Acadia is another great full-size SUV choice, praised for its affordability in repairs and widespread popularity. “A lot of people drive this car,” Rodriguez said. “The cost for repairs isn’t expensive, and in our shop, we haven’t really seen anything major go wrong.”
The GMC Acadia has a spacious interior, which typically seats up to seven, and reasonable upkeep costs, making it a smart pick for families or those who just need the extra space.
Ford Bronco
2025 MSRP: $40,990 to $77,630
For those who love adventure but want to keep costs in check, the Ford Bronco is a standout choice. “You can often find a used Ford Bronco in the $30,000s in terms of cost,” Bryan said. “It’s a very nice edition, especially if you’re a Jeep Wrangler fan.”
The Bronco delivers off-road capability, a stylish design and affordability, making it a great value for outdoor enthusiasts.
Caitlyn Moorhead contributed to the reporting for this article.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: I’m a Car Expert: 5 American Cars That Are Great Frugal Buys
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