Canada’s 12 Most Affordable Cars

For bargain hunters combing through car dealerships for great deals, mini models are still available at amazingly affordable prices. Although eager buyers might have to prune back their wish lists, there are still plenty of affordable cars on the market.

So here’s a list of a dozen cars offering the biggest bang for their buyers, as the 2022 market gears up for action.

2021 Chevrolet Spark LS with manual transmission

Topping the 2022 affordable cars listing, the Chevy Spark LS is fitted with a four-cylinder engine that just outperforms the Mirage, although burning slightly more fuel than its Mitsubishi competitor. Also practical and straightforward, this is the perfect car for drivers wanting to get from A to B with comfort and safety.

Price+ Fees: $10,198 + $1,600 

2020 Mitsubishi Mirage with manual transmission

Available in three versions, the 2020 Mitsubishi Mirage ES city car comes complete with automatic climate control, body-colour power side-view mirrors, and door handles. Additionally, it also has LED rear combination lamps, Bluetooth, power front windows and brake-assist system.

Price+ Fees: $13,858 + $1,725 

2020 Hyundai Accent 5-door Essential with manual transmission

Although phased out to make way for Hyundai’s mechanically identical Venue, dealerships across Canada are still offering 2020 Accents, powered by a 1495 cc 4 cylinder engine that generates a maximum power of 94 bhp @ 5500 rpm and a maximum torque of 124 Nm @ 4500 rpm.

Price+ Fees: $14,949 + $1,625

2020 Kia Rio LX with manual transmission

Still a leading contender in the subcompact segment, the Kia Rio LX has a front-wheel drive, powered by a 1.6 litre direct-injection four-cylinder engine that pumps out 130 hp.  Moreover, it scored an impressive predicted reliability rating of 4.5 out of five.

Price+ Fees: $15,495 + $1,595

2021 Nissan Versa S with manual transmission

Replacing the tiny but very affordable Micra, the Versa sedan continues with the same smooth-riding formula. Furthermore, it also includes a five-speed manual transmission and a 122-hp four-cylinder engine powering the front wheels.

Price+ Fees: $16,498 + $1,800 

2020 Hyundai Venue Essential with manual transmission

Based on the Accent platform, the Venue is a five-seater sub-compact SUV.  Notably, its front-wheel-drive and a snow driving mode keep power on the ground when the roads are slippery. At the same time, its six airbags reflect Hyundai’s firm commitment to safety engineering.

Price+ Fees: $17,099 + $1,825 

2020 Kia Forte LX manual transmission

With a standard 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine that puts out 147 horsepower, and six-speed manual transmission, the Kia Forte unexpectedly shares a platform and some mechanical components with the Hyundai Elantra.

Price+ Fees: $17,695 + $1,645 

2021 Hyundai Elantra Essential with manual transmission

With a sportier silhouette for 2021, this compact sedan continues the top tier of its segment. Kitted out with a wealth of features, its six-speed manual transmission ensures direct control of acceleration, backed by one of the best warranties in the field.

Price+ Fees: $17,899 + $1,725 

2021 Nissan Sentra S with manual transmission

With a fresh look for 2021, the Nissan Sentra S is one of the most affordable cars in this line-up. But even this entry-level trim is still way ahead of its predecessors, in terms of quality. This newly-remodeled car was a finalist in the North American Car of the Year Award.

Price+ Fees: $19,198 + $1,800 

2021 Toyota Corolla L manual transmission

Famed for its reliability, the Corolla L offers a whole lot of automobile for a reasonable price. Its light clutch pedal shifts easily through three close-ratio low gears for spirited acceleration and three overdrives that boost fuel savings.

Price+ Fees: $19,150 + $1,670 

2020 Nissan Kicks S with CVT transmission

One of the few cars in Canada with a continuously variable transmission and front-wheel drive priced at under $20,000, the 2020 Kicks S has a 1.6-litre 4-cylinder engine that is geared to feel responsive when driving around town.

Price+ Fees: $19,398 + $1,800 

Subaru Impreza Convenience 2021 manual transmission

The only compact on the Canadian market costing less than $20,000 that is standard with all-wheel drive, the sporty Subaru Impreza S boasts an infotainment system, and has  plenty of passenger space. With a high safety score, it also offers great fuel economy.

Price+ Fees: $19,995 + $1,675

Affordable Cars for Everyone

With all these low-cost options – really offering great upgrades at equally low prices –  drivers on tight budgets can find their dream wheels in used car lots across Canada, and without breaking the bank.