The best cars under $18,000

Look good in your new car without breaking the bank: A guide to the best cars under $18,000.

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If you're on a budget, use Reply! to find the best cars under $18,000 from the new model year lineup. If you're looking for an economy car, subcompact, compact or sedan, use this car-buying guide of the latest choices from popular models to help you find the best vehicle for a cost that fits your budget.

Dodge and Ford

The best cars under $18,000 from Dodge and Ford offer two options, depending on your personal tastes. These include:

Dodge Dart

  • Dodge Dart: This model offers up to 41 mpg when you cruise the highways. It features clean lines, a split crosshair grill and upgrades such as racetrack-style headlights. It starts out at an MSRP of $15,995.

  • Ford Fiesta: The new model features an impressive 39 miles per gallon when on the highway. You can choose between the S Sedan ($13,200 MSRP), S Hatchback ($14,200 MSRP), SE Sedan ($15,200 MSRP), SE Hatchback ($16,200) and the Titanium Sedan ($17,200 MSRP) to stay within your budget.

Chevrolet

Chevrolet offers two models for the best cars under $18,000. They are:

Chevy Sonic

  • Chevrolet Sonic: This line has six style options that offer 35 mpg on the highway. Choose from the LS Sedan ($14,185 MSRP), LS Hatchback ($14,785 MSRP), LT Sedan ($15,640 MSRP), LT Hatchback ($16,240 MSRP), LTZ Sedan ($17,250 MSRP) and the LTZ Hatchback ($17, 805 MSRP).

  • Chevrolet Spark: This line has three options that offer 38 mpg for highway travel. Choose from the LS Hatchback ($12,185 MSRP), 1LT Hatchback ($13,785 MSRP) and the 2LT Hatchback ($15,085 MSRP).

Ford Fiesta interiorStaying Within Budget

When looking for the best cars under $18,000, finding one that's a couple thousand below your budget can really assist you in getting exactly what you want. It allows you to get upgrades you may not be able to afford with other models at the top of your price range.

This includes aesthetics such as high-end wheels and leather upholstery, as well as perks such as a quality navigation system or built-in media player for road trips with younger children.

Choosing the Right Vehicle

Whether this is your first vehicle purchase or not, make a list of priorities for the features that are most important to you besides the price. For example, list if you're looking for a vehicle with the highest safety ratings or if you're willing to trade a little extra gas money for additional horsepower.

Bring this list with you to the dealership when you first start shopping for the vehicle. Let the salesperson know ahead of time what you want for your money. Confident and knowledgeable buyers get better deals than those who don't do their homework beforehand.

Get price quotes on the best cars under $18,000 now!

Find specific car rankings and individual reviews for the best cars under $18,000 on the Reply! site. Once you make your final choice, look for a buyer's guide for that specific make and model and find a reputable local dealership that offers the most courteous and honest service.

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