Many drivers — including empty nesters and retirees — may discover that they no longer need a big vehicle. For such folks, a midsize car might make more sense.
Check out some of these affordable options for midsize cars, plus their manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP).
All the cars are affordable enough to help you get ahead financially , but we start with the car that has the highest price tag and work our way down to the car with the lowest cost.
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1. 2025 Chevrolet Malibu
MSRP: $25,800
The Chevrolet Malibu features General Motors’ OnStar system, which can help you quickly access emergency services. The Malibu also has standard safety features such as automatic emergency braking and lane keep assist.
Own a car? Here's 7 warning signs you're paying too much for car insurance. 2. 2025 Toyota Camry Hybrid
MSRP: $28,400
The Toyota Camry Hybrid is a good option if you are looking for a hybrid midsize car instead of a gas-powered vehicle. The stylish hybrid can get you up to 51 mpg combined on local roads and highways.
3. 2024 Honda Accord
MSRP: $27,895
The Honda Accord offers an option with a hybrid engine if you would prefer that over a traditional gas-powered engine. The hybrid version has a slightly higher sticker price, but it can pay off in the long run when you save money on gas.
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4. 2024 Hyundai Sonata
MSRP: $27,500
The Hyundai Sonata is a good option to consider, especially if you are looking for extra safety. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave the 2024 Sonata a Top Safety Pick rating for its performance in crash tests.
5. 2025 Kia K5
MSRP: $26,990
The sporty Kia K5 includes automatic emergency braking and other safety features to help you navigate the streets without compromising on safety. It also comes with other neat perks, such as remote start and a “find my car” feature.
6. 2024 Nissan Altima
MSRP: $26,370
Check out the Nissan Altima if you are looking for additional safety features. The Nissan Safety Shield 360 includes everything from lane departure warning to automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection.
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MSRP: $24,895
The Subaru Legacy comes with standard all-wheel drive to help you through tough weather conditions.
The Legacy also has a large touchscreen to make it easy to see maps, entertainment, and other information.
8. 2025 Mazda3
MSRP: $23,950
Do you want a little extra luxury with your Mazda3? You can get leather-trimmed seats in black, white or red. The Mazda3 is also a safe car to drive, with the IIHS giving it a Top Safety Pick Plus rating for its 2024 model.
9. 2024 Toyota Corolla
MSRP: $22,050
The Toyota Corolla offers a sleek look, with 18-inch alloy wheels that have a bronze finish. The Smart Key System lets you start the car without taking the keys out of your pocket.
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10. 2024 Volkswagen Jetta
MSRP: $21,345
The Volkswagen Jetta has the lowest sticker price of any car on this list. Volkswagen says the Jetta also has a lower cost of maintenance than similar vehicles from other carmakers.
Bottom line
These midsize cars can get you around town at a price that will keep your budget intact.
Looking for more ways to save? Shop around and look for the best rates so you save money on car insurance .
Money tips that can work for everyone
No matter what your bank account balance is, there's always an opportunity to optimize and improve your finances. Here's a quick checklist of things you can look at today.
Focus on paying off your debt. Debt can hold you back from making progress with your overall financial well-being. Aside from cutting expenses, there are tools that can help you pay off debt faster like balance transfer credit cards and debt counseling.
Earning extra income can give you breathing room. If finances are tight, earning some extra money to supplement your income can make a huge difference. A new job is one option to consider, but if you're not ready to make a big change or already retired, a part-time side job could be a better choice.
Cut your expenses. It sounds painful and so not fun, but it doesn't have to be. Take a look at your biggest expenses because that's where you'll probably find the biggest savings. For example, auto insurance rates have been soaring so shopping around for a new insurance company can be the fastest way to cut your bill. Also, look for ways to cut your grocery bill (despite rising inflation).
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