Buying a car for the first time is exciting. A car gives you the freedom to travel and opens up a world of possibilities. While the price of cars is very high these days, if you shop around, you can likely still find a car that offers value. Here are the four best affordable new cars for first-time car buyers in 2022.

The affordable 2022 Nissan Versa is a good choice for first-time car buyers

The first pick for an affordable new car for first-time car buyers in 2022 is the 2022 Nissan Versa subcompact car. The Versa is one of the most affordable new cars available, with a starting price of $15,380 MSRP. However, the low price doesn’t mean that the Versa is a cheap car. 

In fact, the Versa provides great value. It has an extensive suite of safety and driving assistance features, a touchscreen infotainment system, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration. Also, the Versa has an estimated fuel economy of up to 32 city/40 highway mpg.

Buy the reasonably-priced 2022 Hyundai Kona for your first car

The second pick for an affordable new car for first-time car buyers in 2022 is the 2022 Hyundai Kona subcompact crossover SUV, which has a starting price of $21,300 MSRP. As noted by CarBuzz, the Kona is a good choice for an entry-level car. This is “because of the wealth of technology available as standard — including wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Lane Keeping Assist.” If you desire a more exhilarating driving experience, you can opt for the N-Line or Limited trims. Both models feature a 195-hp turbocharged 1.6-liter engine. 

The affordable 2022 Honda Civic is a leading choice for first-time car buyers

The 2022 Honda Civic compact car takes the third spot as the best new car for first-time car buyers. The Civic, which has a starting price of $22,350 MSRP, has excellent driving dynamics, gets high fuel economy, and offers a wealth of useful technologies — even for the base LX trim. With its comfort and convenience features and engine upgrade, the mid-tier EX trim provides the most value. And for a sporty ride, you can opt for the Civic Si model.

The 2022 Toyota Corolla Hybrid has a low price and fuel-sipping efficiency

The fourth car on this list of best affordable cars for first-time car buyers is the 2022 Toyota Corolla Hybrid compact car. Along with its reasonable starting price of $24,050 MSRP, the Corolla Hybrid gets a gas-sipping estimated fuel economy of 53 city/52 highway mpg. 

Additionally, the Corolla Hybrid offers tremendous value with its many standard features. This includes an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, and an automatic climate control system. Also, the Corolla Hybrid provides high-level safety with its many safety and driving assistance features.

A first car is an important investment in your future. Make it a good one by buying either the 2022 Nissan Versa, 2022 Hyundai Kona, 2022 Honda Civic, or 2022 Toyota Corolla Hybrid.