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My first car was a used 2001 Toyota Corolla with well over 200,000 miles, and I wouldn’t trade it for the world. Although Toyota can be considered luxurious, the company produces plenty of affordable vehicles.
Even new Toyota models are often less than $30,000, which is a steal for newly released vehicles. You’ll have more luck finding an inexpensive older model. But which ones are the most affordable? And are they worth the risk?
As a Toyota fan, I hold this topic close to my heart. My next car will definitely be a cheap Toyota – although the model is still in the air. We scoured the internet for price information and reliability for the models on this list. I specifically used websites like Kelley Blue Book and the Toyota website.
Keep reading to discover 9 surprisingly cheap Toyota models. Who knows, maybe you’ll cave and buy a Toyota for your next car.
Toyota Highlander
There are plenty of Toyota Highlanders to choose from to fit your budget. Don’t immediately settle for the newest Highlander. Toyota’s produced this sleek mid-size crossover SUV since 2000.
This family car ranges in price depending on the year. For instance, the 2016 edition sells for around $17,957. Although a lot for a used car, it’s one that lasts. I’ve seen plenty of Highlanders selling with over 150,000 miles and no car problems. The 2012 Toyota Highlander is even cheaper, selling at $11,104 or less.
Toyota Corolla Sedan LE
Toyota Corollas have been popular for a very long time. As I said earlier, my first car was a very used 2001 Corolla. I had it for four years, and it was still kicking by the time I upgraded.
Toyota Corollas are affordable, even the newer editions. For instance, the 2024 edition starts at $22,050.
Toyota Prius
Another Toyota model that is surprisingly cheap is the Toyota Prius. It’s on my list of cars I wouldn’t mind buying. Even the newest 2024 model is affordable compared to other brands.
The 2024 Toyota Prius starts at $27,950, significantly lower than the January average new car price of $47,401. If $27,950 is too much, you can buy a used Toyota Prius. While researching, I saw plenty of used vehicles priced between $5,000 and $15,000.
Toyota Camry
I also have a lot of experience with the Toyota Camry. My stepmom used to own a 2006 Toyota Camry with over 200,000 miles. It had its quirks, but was such a great car.
This vehicle has changed a lot since 2006. The newest edition, 2025, is equipped with many safety features, including blind spot monitoring. The price starts at $28,400.
Toyota Tacoma
My husband’s dream car is the 2024 Toyota Tacoma, but he’d be happy with an older, used model. This smooth-driving truck is available at multiple price points. While a new 2024 Toyota Tacoma starts at $31,500, there are cheaper editions.
For instance, gently used 2017 models can be found online selling for less than $20,000. Compared to other truck brands, this is pretty decent.
Toyota RAV4
The Toyota RAV4 is an excellent family car. It’s reliable, roomy, and stylish. It’s definitely a car I have on my list for the near future, as it seems like an excellent road trip vehicle.
So, what can you expect to pay for the Toyota RAV4? Well, the newest edition, the 2024 Toyota RAV4, starts at $28,675. Older, used Rav4s go for a lot less. The cheapest I saw online was a 2016 Toyota RAV4, selling for $16,000.
Toyota Yaris
The Toyota Yaris has been around since 1999 but was discontinued in 2020. Still, you can find this suspiciously cheap Toyota model for sale, used.
Newer models with minimal miles sell for about $15,000 to $20,000. You don’t have to pay that much money to own one. The 2011 Toyota Yaris goes for about $5,000 to $7,000.
Toyota Corolla Hatchback
Also, an affordable Toyota model is the Toyota Corolla Hatchback. The most recent model is the 2025 edition, which starts at $23,630 and comes in many colors, including metallic blue, ice cap, and finish line red.
I typically stay away from brand-new cars. Used Toyota Corolla Hatchbacks are a fraction of the cost of the newest edition. For instance, the 2017 Toyota Corolla Hatchback sells for as low as $8,000.
Toyota GR86
Last but not least is the Toyota GR86. Now, I’m not saying this thrill-seeking sports car is the most affordable, but it’s inexpensive compared to other models.
The starting price for a 2024 Toyota GR86 is $29,300. The price goes up depending on the features added. For instance, the GR86 TRUENO Edition starts at $34,720.
The Purpose of a Budget and 11 Reasons Why You Need One
The primary purpose of a budget is to track your income and expenses. A budget also ensures your bills are paid on time, helps you plan for the future, helps identify any bad spending habits or areas where you could reduce your spending, and ensures that your spending reflects your priorities. By creating a budget and sticking to it, you can ensure your needs are met, your bills are paid on time, you get out of debt, and you meet your financial goals.
15 Most Comfortable Cars for Tall Drivers
As someone of above-average height, I can tell you that driving a compact car is not only uncomfortable, but it’s also always the safest. It makes blind spots more common, making it hard to see streetlights without disjointing my neck. Car shopping has always been a hassle, and I wish I had this information before I started test-driving multiple cars. These are some of the best vehicles for those taller than their fellow drivers.
- Read More: 15 Most Comfortable Cars for Tall Drivers
