Get access to the same vehicle valuation tool that dealers rely on. With Black Book, you’ll have insider data to accurately assess trade-in and purchase values—empowering you to negotiate the best possible deal.
Looking for a reliable, affordable used car in 2025? You’re not alone. With new car prices still near record highs, the used car market remains the best place to find a budget-friendly vehicle. The challenge? Finding a reliable used car that won’t break the bank on repairs.
That’s why we’ve put together this list of the best used cars under $10,000, featuring vehicles with strong reliability ratings, reasonable maintenance costs, and great overall value. While the national average selling price for these cars is often higher than $10,000, we’ve included realistic target prices based on the latest market trends—meaning with some patience and negotiation, you can land one of these for under $10,000 in 2025.
Target Price: $9,500 for a 2016 Mazda 3 with 100,000 – 130,000 miles and a clean history.
Why It’s Great: The 2016 Mazda 3 is an all-around winner, offering a fun driving experience, excellent fuel economy, and strong reliability ratings. With 33 miles per gallon in mixed driving, it’s an ideal choice for commuters who need something cheap and efficient. The Mazda 3 also earns an A+ CarEdge Value Rating, making it one of the best used cars under $10,000.
Target Price: $9,800 for a 2017 Chevrolet Bolt EV with under 120,000 miles and a clean history.
Why It’s Great: The Chevy Bolt is best used EV under $10,000—but with a few caveats. If you can confirm that the Bolt has received its battery replacement under the 2021 recall, it’s a fantastic value. With over 200 miles of range, the Bolt is great for commuting and around-town driving. However, it’s not ideal for road trips due to slow charging speeds.
Target Price: $7,500 for a 2018 Chevrolet Cruze with 100,000 – 120,000 miles and a clean history.
Why It’s Great: The Chevy Cruze is fuel-efficient, affordable, and packed with value. With newer styling, a smooth ride, and good reliability ratings, it’s a great alternative to pricier compact sedans like the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla.
Target Price: $9,800 for a 2016 Buick LaCrosse with 100,000 – 130,000 miles and a clean history.
Why It’s Great: The Buick LaCrosse is an underrated luxury sedan, offering a smooth ride, spacious interior, and solid reliability. While new models were expensive, depreciation has made it one of the most affordable used sedans on the market. If you negotiate well, you can land a clean LaCrosse for under $10,000.
Target Price: $9,500 for a 2016 Chevrolet Malibu with 100,000 – 120,000 miles and a clean history.
Why It’s Great: The Chevy Malibu is a sleeper pick for one of the best budget-friendly sedans. It’s comfortable, spacious, and relatively inexpensive to maintain. Now that Chevrolet has discontinued the Malibu, used prices have softened, making it an even better value in 2025.
Target Price: $9,800 for a 2016 Subaru Legacy with 120,000 – 140,000 miles and a clean history.
Why It’s Great: If you’re looking for an affordable all-wheel-drive sedan, the Subaru Legacy is your best bet. Subaru’s AWD system makes this an excellent choice for drivers in snowy or rainy climates. While the reliability score isn’t the highest on this list, Subarus are known for their longevity—as long as the previous owner kept up with regular maintenance.
Target Price: $9,800 for a 2015 Subaru Outback with 110,000 – 150,000 miles and a clean history.
Why It’s Great: With all-wheel drive, high ground clearance, and a spacious interior, the Subaru Outback is a fantastic option for outdoor enthusiasts or families who need versatility. It’s one of the most capable vehicles under $10,000, especially in winter climates.
The Best Used Cars Under $10,000 in 2025: Final Thoughts
Finding a reliable, budget-friendly used car is tough in today’s market, but these ten models offer the best value under $10,000 in 2025. Whether you need a fuel-efficient commuter, all-wheel-drive sedan, or affordable EV, these options check all the right boxes. However, with plenty of miles on the odometer, it would be smart to protect your wallet with an affordable Vehicle Service Contract to avoid unexpected repair costs.
💡 Want to make sure you’re getting the best deal? Use CarEdge’s free tools to check fair market value and negotiate the best price on a used car.
Car insurance costs continue to rise in 2025, with the national average annual premium now reaching $2,895. However, not all vehicles are equally expensive to insure. Some models stand out for their lower insurance rates, making them excellent choices for drivers looking to save on total cost of ownership.
We’ve analyzed CarEdge insurance data to find the cheapest cars to insure in 2025. These models not only offer affordable coverage but also have solid reliability, reasonable maintenance costs, and strong safety ratings—all factors that contribute to lower insurance premiums.
Let’s dive into the cars with the cheapest insurance in 2025 and why they are such great choices.
The 10 Cheapest Cars to Insure in 2025
1. 2025 Mazda CX-5
Average Annual Insurance Premium: $1,877 ($1,018 below the national average)
5-Year Total Cost of Ownership: $39,836
MSRP: $29,990–$42,020
The Mazda CX-5 takes the top spot as the cheapest car to insure in 2025. This popular compact SUV combines strong safety ratings, a smooth ride, and a cabin with a premium feel. Its affordability extends beyond insurance, with affordable total ownership costs and a starting price around $30,000.
Average Annual Insurance Premium: $1,881 ($1,014 below the national average)
5-Year Total Cost of Ownership: $42,554
MSRP: $31,450–$37,850
In 2024, Honda sold 402,000 copies of the CR-V in America, earning fifth place in the sales charts. One reason for the CR-V’s loyal following is affordable insurance. Its advanced safety features and low theft rates contribute to its low insurance costs. With a reputation for durability, this SUV is a smart pick for long-term ownership.
Average Annual Insurance Premium: $1,890 ($1,005 below the national average)
5-Year Total Cost of Ownership: $38,911
MSRP: $25,745–$34,795
The Hyundai Kona is a fun-to-drive subcompact SUV that boasts a modern design, impressive fuel efficiency, and strong safety ratings. Kona drivers save about $1,000 per year on insurance compared to the national average.
Average Annual Insurance Premium: $1,893 ($1,002 below the national average)
5-Year Total Cost of Ownership: $45,002
MSRP: $30,290–$44,190
After 30 years on the market, the Subaru Outback remains a top-selling model for Subaru. The combination of all-wheel drive and top-tier safety ratings makes the Outback one of the cheapest cars to insure in 2025..
Average Annual Insurance Premium: $1,897 ($998 below the national average)
5-Year Total Cost of Ownership: $53,564
MSRP: $41,690
Minivans tend to have lower insurance premiums due to their family-friendly nature and strong safety features. The Chrysler Voyager is a budget-friendly alternative to the Pacifica, offering a practical and spacious cabin without breaking the bank on insurance.
Average Annual Insurance Premium: $1,897 ($998 below the national average)
5-Year Total Cost of Ownership: $37,923
MSRP: $27,115–$33,915
The Subaru Crosstrek is another insurance-friendly option, thanks to its all-wheel drive and standard safety features. The Crosstrek is a great choice for those who need a versatile compact SUV with low long-term costs.
Average Annual Insurance Premium: $1,905 ($990 below the national average)
5-Year Total Cost of Ownership: $45,136
MSRP: $29,750–$41,190
The Hyundai Tucson is a popular compact SUV that offers a balance of affordability, technology, and fuel efficiency. With Hyundai’s excellent manufacturer warranty and top safety scores, it’s no surprise that insurance costs remain low.
Average Annual Insurance Premium: $1,909 ($986 below the national average)
5-Year Total Cost of Ownership: $38,600
MSRP: $26,415–$38,370
Sporty, stylish, and packed with value, the Mazda CX-30 is one of the best small SUVs for budget-conscious drivers. Its strong crash test performance and reasonable repair costs keep insurance rates below the national average.
Average Annual Insurance Premium: $1,913 ($982 below the national average)
5-Year Total Cost of Ownership: $55,046
MSRP: $33,990–$101,890
Despite its rugged off-road reputation, the Jeep Wrangler is among the cheapest SUVs to insure. Its long-term durability, high resale value, and simple design contribute to reasonable insurance costs.
Average Annual Insurance Premium: $1,914 ($981 below the national average)
5-Year Total Cost of Ownership: $39,851
MSRP: $28,365–$42,165
For eco-conscious buyers, the Kia Niro offers hybrid and fully-electric options with low insurance rates. Its affordable maintenance costs and solid safety scores make it one of the cheapest cars to insure in 2025.
Our car insurance comparison study assumes a 40 year old good driver with full coverage and good credit that drives around 13,000 miles per year. They also assume a single-car policy on a brand-new vehicle, and won’t reflect any multi-car discounts.
What Makes a Car Cheaper to Insure?
Several factors influence how much you’ll pay for auto insurance, including:
Safety Ratings: Vehicles with high crash test scores and advanced driver assistance features typically have lower insurance premiums.
Repair Costs: The availability and price of replacement parts affect insurance rates. Cheaper-to-repair vehicles cost less to insure.
Vehicle Type: Affordable sedans and SUVs tend to have lower premiums compared to sports cars and luxury models.
Theft Rates: Cars that are frequently targeted by thieves may have higher insurance costs.
Bottom Line: The Best Cars for Low Insurance Costs in 2025
If you’re looking to save money on insurance in 2025, compact SUVs and hybrid models tend to be the best bets. The Mazda CX-5, Honda CR-V, and Hyundai Kona lead the pack, offering insurance rates more than $1,000 below the national average.
Following a strong December fueled by luxury sales and holiday promotions, the new year kicked off with a sharp decline in vehicle transactions. According to new data from Cox Automotive, new car sales dropped 25% month-over-month in January, leading to a notable increase in inventory levels. With year-end buying season over and interest rates still high, new car inventory is up 26% since the start of January.
For car buyers, this means increasing negotiability for February’s Presidents’ Day deals. Let’s take a closer look at how new car inventory, pricing, and incentives are shaping up for 2025.
New Car Inventory Builds, But Some Brands Face Bigger Challenges
As sales cooled off in January, total new vehicle inventory rose to 2.92 million units at the start of February, marking a 14.2% increase year-over-year. However, the biggest change is the sharp rise in days’ supply, which surged to 96 days, far above the industry norm.
Ford and Chevrolet have the largest share of new car inventory, accounting for 17% and 11% of available stock, respectively. Meanwhile, Toyota, Honda, Kia, and Hyundai continue to dominate overall sales, with strong retail demand keeping their days’ supply lower than competitors.
Some brands are carrying particularly high levels of unsold inventory, creating opportunities for buyers to negotiate better deals. Stellantis—home to Jeep, Dodge, Ram, and Chrysler—has seen a dramatic shift in its supply situation. After struggling with excessive inventory last year, aggressive discounting has helped normalize Stellantis’ stock levels, though some models still linger well above industry averages:
Dodge – 133 days’ supply
Jeep – 128 days’ supply
Ram – 120 days’ supply
Chrysler – 109 days’ supply
However, Ford and Lincoln now top the charts for the highest inventory buildup, with many 2024 models still sitting unsold. Ford’s lineup is particularly weighted down by last year’s models, with 63% of their inventory still 2024 models.
SUVs and Trucks Still Dominate Sales
Despite the slowdown in overall sales, compact SUVs and full-size pickup trucks continue to be America’s best-selling vehicles.
The Toyota RAV4 remains the best-selling SUV, making it one of the least negotiable vehicles on the market. With an average listing price of $38,403, buyers can expect strong demand and limited discounts on this popular model.
On the other hand, full-size trucks have significantly more inventory, leading to higher negotiability. The Ford F-150, America’s best-selling truck, has a staggering 141 days’ supply—far above the industry average. Buyers looking for a full-size truck may find bigger discounts and more dealer incentives as brands work to move inventory.
New Car Prices Are Falling
With demand cooling off, new car prices took a step back in January.
The average listing price for a new vehicle dropped to $48,637, a 2.5% decrease from December. While this still represents a 2.5% increase year-over-year, the decline is a welcome relief for shoppers who faced record-high prices in 2023 and 2024.
For budget-conscious buyers, more affordable new cars are still available:
Incentives Drop in January, But February Brings Big Sales
One of the biggest drivers of December’s strong sales was higher manufacturer incentives, but those deals dropped in January. In January 2025, new car incentives fell to 7.2% of the average transaction price, or approximately $3,486 per vehicle.
January’s slowdown has set the stage for some of the best Presidents’ Day car deals in years. With inventory climbing, buyers shopping for EVs, full-size trucks and slower-selling SUVs will have more leverage to negotiate. While incentives dipped slightly in January, they remain well above 2024 levels, and Presidents’ Day sales events are expected to bring even deeper discounts as dealers work through excess inventory.
Auto insurance rates are climbing once again in 2025, and the latest data suggests that relief is nowhere in sight. According to the February 2025 Consumer Price Index, the motor vehicle insurance index rose 2.0% in January, pushing the 12-month increase to nearly 12%. Car insurance costs have been rising steadily for the past three years, and new factors – including tariff’s impacts on car prices and auto parts – threaten to send rates even higher. Here’s what’s driving up auto insurance costs in 2025, and what it means for drivers.
Insurance Rates Continue to Rise
Auto insurance rates have been on a steady upward trajectory since 2022, and new projections suggest that costs will increase another 5% in 2025. According to Insurify, auto insurance rates soared 15% in 2024, while EV insurance costs for nine popular models jumped 28% over the same period.
Today, the average cost of full-coverage auto insurance is $2,313 per year, but for many drivers, it’s far worse. In six states, annual premiums exceed $3,000, making car ownership even more expensive. Many drivers fail to plan for insurance costs prior to purchasing a vehicle, making insurance expenses one of the hidden costs of vehicle ownership, alongside depreciation.
Why Are Auto Insurance Rates Rising in 2025?
Several factors are driving the increase in car insurance costs, including:
Rising Vehicle Repair Costs: As cars become more technologically advanced, repairs are more expensive. This is especially true for EVs, which tend to have higher repair costs than gas-powered vehicles. Even ICE vehicles have costly electronic components these days, making it more difficult to avoid the risks of costly repairs.
Climate Risk Adjustments: Insurance companies are increasingly factoring climate risks into their rates. More frequent hurricanes, wildfires, and severe weather events are leading to higher claims payouts, which results in rising premiums for all drivers.
Previous Insurance Industry Losses: In 2022, insurers faced a record $33.1 billion in underwriting losses, prompting a 24% increase in full-coverage policy costs in 2023. While the market is stabilizing, insurers are still adjusting their pricing models.
Some states are seeing a bit of relief. In the second half of 2024, average premiums decreased in 21 states. However, Insurify projects that drivers in Florida, New York, Georgia, Nevada, and Delaware will see the biggest rate hikes in 2025, with full-coverage rates expected to rise another 10% in these high-cost states. Nationwide, the average auto insurance premium is forecast to reach $2,435 in 2025.
How Tariffs Will Push Car Insurance Even Higher
New tariffs on cars, auto parts, and manufacturing materials are poised to make vehicle ownership even more expensive in 2025.
According to a Wall Street Journal report, auto insurance rates are particularly sensitive to tariff’s impacts because higher car prices lead to higher repair costs – which in turn drives up insurance premiums.
While tariffs on Canadian and Mexican imports have been delayed, the Trump administration has announced new tariffs on steel, aluminum, and imported semiconductors – all of which will increase manufacturing costs for automakers. Additionally, auto repair costs will rise as imported components become more expensive. As both car prices and repair costs rise, auto insurance rates will follow suit.
Even before these tariffs take effect, vehicle repair costs are already rising. The February 2025 CPI report showed that vehicle repair costs increased by 7.4% year-over-year, reflecting higher parts costs and labor shortages. With 40% of imported car parts coming from Mexico and Canada, many automotive repairs will become more expensive in 2025.
Car Prices Are Set to Climb to New Records
Tariffs are also expected to drive new car prices to record highs in 2025. As of February, the average new car sells for $49,740, or just a hair below 2022’s record high. Later this year, average new car prices are likely to surpass $50,000 for the first time.
One prominent industry analyst predicts that if the Trump administration’s proposed 25% tariffs on Mexico and Canada go into effect, the cost of a new car could rise by nearly $6,000. A Benchmark analysis estimates that these tariffs would push the average new car price above $54,500, a 12% increase compared to 2024.
The auto industry is among the most vulnerable to these tariff increases due to its heavy reliance on global supply chains. Benchmark found that:
More than 22% of finished cars and 40% of auto parts imported into the U.S. come from Mexico and Canada.
Tariffs on these imports will increase production costs, forcing automakers to raise prices.
Consumers will ultimately bear the brunt of these added costs—not just in vehicle prices, but in higher insurance rates, registration fees, and financing costs.
Between rising repair costs, climbing insurance rates, and looming auto tariffs, the cost of car ownership is headed even higher in 2025. Auto insurance rates are up 12% over the past year, and experts predict another 5% increase this year, with drivers in high-cost states facing the biggest hikes.
At the same time, tariffs on vehicles and auto parts could add thousands of dollars to the cost of new cars, leading to even steeper increases in insurance premiums. The combined impact of these factors means that car buyers and owners need to be more strategic than ever when shopping for a new vehicle or renewing their insurance policy.
💡 How can you save?
Compare insurance quotes before purchasing a vehicle. Rates vary widely based on car model and state.
Stay informed about the total cost of ownership before you buy.
At CarEdge, we providefree tools and expert insights to help you navigate rising car costs in 2025. From comparing insurance rates to finding the best car deals, we’re here to help you make smarter car-buying decisions.
Presidents’ Day weekend is shaping up to be a great time to buy a truck in 2025. With an oversupply of 2024 models lingering on dealer lots and automakers pushing aggressive financing incentives, truck buyers can take advantage of some of the biggest discounts we’ve seen in months. It’s almost like December’s clearance sales never ended. Whether you’re looking for a workhorse or a luxury-packed pickup, here are the best Presidents’ Day truck deals to take advantage of in February 2025.
Toyota Presidents’ Day Truck Deals
2025 Toyota Tacoma – Lease from $399/month with $0 Down
Best Offer:Lease from $399/month for 36 months with $0 due at signing (select markets only, check Toyota.com for availability). This offer expires on March 3, 2025.
The 2025 Toyota Tacoma is a popular midsize truck with legendary reliability. In fact, the Tacoma earned the #3 spot in our car reliability rankings. Although this zero-down truck deal is available in select markets, similarly compelling deals are available in other regions.
Offer:Lease from $389/month for 24 months with$3,609 due at signing (for returning GM lessees). See offer details. This offer expires on March 3, 2025.
GMC’s full-size Sierra 1500 continues to be a top contender in the pickup segment. If you’re a current GM lessee, you can take advantage of one of the lowest monthly payments on a full-size truck this February.
2025 Ram 1500 – 4.9% APR + Up to $13,000 Cash Allowance
Offer:4.9% APR for 72 months + up to $12,500 cash allowance for current FCA lessees on select V6 2025 Ram trucks. See offer details. This offer expires on March 3, 2025.
For truck buyers looking for big savings, Ram’s cash allowance is one of the best incentives available this Presidents’ Day. Current lessees of FCA vehicles can get up to $12,500 in savings, making it one of the strongest deals on a 2025 model.
2024 Chevrolet Silverado EV – 0% APR for 60 Months
Offer:0% APR financing for 60 months on the 2024 Chevy Silverado EV. See offer details. This offer expires on March 3, 2025.
With up to 440 miles of all-electric range, the 2024 Chevrolet Silverado EV is one of the longest-range electric trucks on the market. Chevy is offering zero-percent financing for 60 months, making this one of the best deals available for anyone looking to make the switch to an EV pickup. If you can charge at home overnight, this is a fantastic deal.
Offer:3.9% APR for 60 months + $3,350 bonus cash. The F-150 Lightning is available with 0% APR for 72 months and includes a free home charger with installation. See offer details. This offer expires on March 3, 2025.
Ford has 73,000 2024 F-150s left to sell, so it’s no wonder that they’re offering serious incentives in February. Buyers can get low financing rates on the gas-powered F-150, while those going electric can take advantage of zero-percent financing and a free home charger with installation for the F-150 Lightning.
February 2025 is a great time to buy a truck, with manufacturers offering deep discounts on pickups. Whether you’re interested in a low-payment lease, zero-percent financing, or massive cash discounts, these Presidents’ Day truck deals are worth considering before they expire in early March.
The key to maximizing your savings is shopping smart and negotiating with confidence. At CarEdge, we offer free and premium tools to help you get the best possible deal on your next truck purchase:
✅ CarEdge Car Buying Guide – Check local inventory levels, see dealer invoice pricing, and find the most negotiable trucks in your area. ✅ CarEdge Car Buying Service – Have an expert negotiate the deal for you, securing the lowest price and best financing terms. Home delivery is available.
States eligibile for below invoice pricing and 100% free delivery:
Alabama, Arkansas, Texas, Oklahoma, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Delaware, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia.
What if I don’t live in these states?
If you're outside these areas, don't worry! We're committed to making sure everyone can enjoy our deals. Although the delivery fee will not be waived, you can still purchase from CarEdge and either pay for shipping or coordinate pickup at a participating dealer.
Our concierge service costs $999 plus an optional shipping fee (based on distance or pick-up).
To get started, pay the one-time payment of $999 and a CarEdge concierge will start by negotiating the vehicles in your favorites.
Why should you let a concierge do the work?
Get the best deal
Our team of concierges and industry experts with 75+ years of combined experience with access to tools and data to leverage the best deal possible.
Convenience
Gone are the days of looking for a car and stepping into the dealership spending hours and hours of head banging only to get smooth talked into a higher price.
Expert assistance
We answer all questions you may have regarding the buying process, what the right car is, the deal itself, and more!
Who are the concierges?
Transparent when others aren't
Our commitment to transparency and honesty ensures that you make informed decisions, while our years of experience guarantee that we will be able to secure the best deal for you.
When you win, we win
We work for you, not the dealership, ensuring your interests are always our top priority.
CarEdge Insights
