According to a recent Cars.com survey, three-quarters of in-market car shoppers indicate they are spending less money, focusing on necessities and ensuring they get the most value on major purchases.
As costs for fuel, electricity, insurance, auto service and repair parts and more continue to rise, total car ownership, not just the purchase price, is increasingly top of mind.
“Between tariffs, fuel economy, interest rates and insurance premiums, car shoppers have a lot to think about when evaluating a new vehicle. The Best Value New Cars are a great place for the price-conscious consumer to start,” said Jennifer Newman, Cars.com editor-in-chief.
The Best Value New Cars highlights vehicles that have in the most value for the price tag, especially during a time when the average new-car price is hovering at $49,714. New-car prices are up $709 or 1.4% year over year, reflecting a broader uptick in pricing throughout the first quarter of 2026 compared to the same time period in 2025.
The 2026 Best Value New Cars by Cars.com are: