Best Cars Priced from $45k to $55k | 2023 Ratings

Characteristics of The Best Cars Under $55k

What makes a vehicle worthy of a place on the list of the best cars under $55k? Value-focused buyers in the US want a good return on investment, and cars in this price bracket tend to offer the most. Here’s what you can expect from vehicles with a sticker price between $45k and $55k:

Capable performance, if not excellent levels of power
High levels of comfort and practicality
An impressive safety rating
Reliable mechanicals and a solid warranty
Comprehensive feature count

What to Consider When Buying Cars Under $55,000

Before splurging, you might want to weigh up the pros and cons of spending your hard-earned dollars - is it worth saving a few bucks and shopping in a cheaper segment, or does a higher price mean a higher value product?

Pros

Top-end models in some lineups can be had in this bracket
Good performance is readily available
Loads of hybrid and EV options on offer
Broad variety of body styles and configurations
Good safety and reliability expectations

Cons

Trucks and some SUV models exceed this price range in top specifications
Higher initial outlay, naturally
Available options see the price skyrocket over the limit

FAQs

Can you buy sports cars for $55k?

In this price range, there are a few performance-focused vehicles to consider. The iconic Toyota GR Supra offers two trims under $55k, while Volkswagen sells the spicy Golf R at a starting cost of around $45k. The BMW M240i xDrive Coupe is a hoot to drive and has an MSRP of just over $50k.

What are the best cars for $55k that can go off-road?

The legendary Jeep Wrangler starts and around $32k these days, and while the top-end Rubicon 392 costs way over $80k, you can get a top-spec model with some special equipment for between $40k and $55k. Similarly, the Ford Bronco ranges in price from $35k to $50k, with the capable Badlands trim under $50k.

Do you get electric cars under $55k?

There are many great EV options under $55k, with the award-winning Hyundai Ioniq 6 costing between $45 and $55k, depending on trim. The VW ID.4 goes for under $40k, and even in top-spec trim, is just a little over the $55k ceiling. A base-model BMW i4 has a price of $52k, while the Kia EV6 has a starting MSRP of under $50k.

What family cars can you buy for less than $55,000?

Without even considering sedans, there are minivans and SUVs in this price bracket that make excellent family haulers. These include the Chrysler Pacifica (starting around $40k), the Kia Carnival (maxing out at under $50k), the Hyundai Palisade (under $55k in top specification), and the hybrid Toyota Sienna (the range-topper costs around $53k).

Best 2023 Cars Priced from $45k to $55k