10 vehicles offering good value for money in 2025
Recent years have not been kind to middle-class motorists. The cost of owning a vehicle has skyrocketed, and manufacturers have abandoned many sedans and city cars in favor of trendy SUVs and vans.
The automobile is becoming a luxury item. With this in mind, we present a panorama of ten bargains that stand out in their segment for the sum of their qualities and competitive prices. We'll soon be publishing a list of the most affordable new cars and SUVs. Stay tuned!
Note: Prices shown are MSRP (Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price) at time of publication and are subject to change. They do not include taxes, rebates or other applicable charges.
Chevrolet Equinox EV - MSRP starting at $44,999
Thanks to its unbeatable range/price ratio, the Chevrolet Bolt has helped democratize the electric car. As we await a second generation of the model due next year, the Equinox EV is proving to be a bargain. It combines the versatility and driving qualities of a compact SUV with the monthly payments of an electric sub-compact, like a Kia Niro. However, the reliability of this product, based on an entirely new software and mechanical architecture, remains to be validated. This doubt also hangs over several competitors created from a blank sheet of paper...
Ford Maverick - MSRP starting at $34,500
Launching in the summer of 2021 for $25,900, the Maverick has revived the spirit of the compact pickups of the 1990s and 2000s. Minimalist in its basic versions and ingeniously designed, this Ford also delivers a functional body and astonishing road-holding. It gets even better in 2025, with the option of combining all-wheel drive with a hybrid engine, whose towing capacity increases to 1,814 kg (4,000 lb). As elsewhere, prices have risen substantially over the past three years, but still rival those of a less practical compact SUV.
Hyundai Santa Fe hybrid - MSRP starting at $42,499
Beyond its square styling, the Hyundai Santa Fe boasts three rows of seats and a remarkable space/price ratio... in its basic versions. More expensive, top-of-the-range models sit alongside higher-end SUVs and are associated with a greedy turbocharged engine and an unpleasant transmission. That's why we prefer the more affordable Santa Fe Preferred and Preferred Trend, powered by a hybrid engine that consumes less than 7 L/100 km.
Kia Carnival - MSRP from $40,495
The spiritual heir to the Dodge Grand Caravan, the Kia Carnival is aimed at middle-class families. No vehicle under $45,000 offers as much space, versatility and equipment. Not even an SUV. Highly luxurious, the Carnival SX and SX+ outclass the aging Honda Odyssey and retail for $10,000 less than the Toyota Sienna Platinum and Chrysler Pacifica Pinnacle. Under the hood, you'll find a smooth, reliable V6 or, since 2025, a frugal hybrid block. Of course, you'll have to forget about the stereotypical soccer mom...
Kia EV9 - MSRP starting at $59,995
Pending its cousin the Hyundai Ioniq 9 next year, the Kia EV9 remains the only three-row electric SUV eligible for government subsidies, unlike the VinFast VF 9 and Volkswagen ID. Buzz starting at nearly $80,000. In addition, the Kia benefits from the excellent E-GMP platform, efficient electric motors, rapid recharging, ample range (between 370 and 489 km, depending on battery size) and a plethora of equipment, as is the tradition of South Korean manufacturers.
Mazda CX-5 - MSRP starting at $32,550
Rolling its hump since 2017, the Mazda CX-5 is now the doyen of compact SUVs. Although it's not a modern product, it remains attractive thanks to continuous improvements and moderate price increases over the years. The latest generation of subcompact SUVs has indeed grown to the point where it approaches the trunk volume of this Mazda. However, the CX-5 GX, GS and GT are more fun to drive and just as well-equipped as the Subaru Crosstrek and Honda HR-V, which can approach $40,000.
Subaru Outback - MSRP starting at $34,495
Three decades after its launch, the Subaru Outback remains unique. No other manufacturer has been able to credibly reproduce its elevated wagon approach. Its suspensions and all-wheel drive make a mockery of Quebec's four seasons, while its safety ratings, level of comfort, spacious interior and loyal customer base explain its high resale value. Whereas the Crosstrek and Forester suffered a major inflationary shock when they changed generations, the Outback gives you more for your money.
Tesla Model 3 - MSRP starting at $54,990
At the start of 2024, Tesla gave the Model 3 a thorough overhaul and corrected several of its shortcomings, including assembly quality. And this autumn, the rear-wheel drive variant (now made in the USA instead of China) was enhanced with a larger battery that promises a range of 584 km. In the same vein, consider the Hyundai Ioniq 6.
Its specification sheet doesn't shy away from comparison, and its Ultimate option package almost makes it seem like a luxury car.
Toyota Corolla - MSRP starting at $23,670
If you're looking for a car out of obligation, if reliability is one of your concerns, and if luxury doesn't appeal to you, the Toyota Corolla is a safe buy. Unlike many of its rivals, it retains basic versions that offer the essentials expected in a modern car. And for just over $30,000, a hybrid Corolla is available with all-wheel drive. Whichever version you choose, depreciation is low and monthly payments are lower than for the more refined Honda Civic.
Volkswagen Jetta - MSRP starting at $25,795
Many Quebecers have lamented the departure of the regular Volkswagen Golf, in favor of more lucrative SUVs. Fortunately, the German brand has not yet abandoned the Jetta, its latest economy car, and is giving it a slight feather-lighting in 2025. Its driving pleasure continues to surprise, its equipment is complete and its interior space is sufficient. Enthusiasts will also be pleased to discover the Jetta GLI, a user-friendly sports car that offers many conveniences for its price and pleasing performance.
