If you’re looking at cars for sale on a tight budget, you might think your options are limited, but just because you have to keep your spending in mind doesn’t mean you can’t scoop up a real deal on a great vehicle. Whether you’re looking for practical and reliable or fun and sporty, Honda has become the go-to brand for those looking to get a quality ride that won’t hurt their wallet. The Japanese automaker is famous for its fuel-efficient engines and forward-thinking approach to mechanics and design, giving drivers a money-saving vehicle that doesn’t skimp on style and comfort.
When shopping on a tight budget, it can be frustrating to see expensive shiny vehicles and not be able to afford them. But don’t be fooled; some of those expensive sports cars or luxury SUVs will continue to cost you money when it comes to maintenance or gas. Focusing on a brand like Honda means you’re not just getting a great deal now but also down the road. Honda is a brand with low maintenance costs, with some models going up to 300,000 miles or more when properly maintained. If searching for a vehicle on a budget has you feeling a little stressed and like you don’t have a lot of choices, let us assure you, you do. We’ve looked at a few of the best Honda models you can buy that will work for your budget and maybe even save you a few dollars down the road.
The Honda Odyssey: Get a Lot Without Paying a Lot
We think minivans don’t get enough press these days. After all, with giant SUVs taking over the market, minivans might soon be a thing of the past, but we couldn’t disagree more. The Honda Odyssey is a top-rated minivan, one of the two Hondas (the other being the Civic) named “Best Car For The Money” in 2023 by U.S. News & World Report. This isn’t the first time the van has been highlighted as a great value; it’s the seventh time it’s been nominated overall! So whether you buy brand new or pre-owned, you can be sure you will get your money’s worth. Add to that the Odyssey’s reputation for safety (the 2021 model earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), its highest award.), and you know you’ll not only be protected but so will those you share the road with.
If you’re looking to get a lot without spending a lot, the Odyssey has more than enough room for up to eight passengers, plus ample cargo space. If you have fewer passengers and more stuff, fold down seats to take advantage of the vehicle’s max cargo space, giving drivers plenty of room for luggage, gear, and even the family dog. The most recent 2023 model offers a whopping 158 cu.ft. of space with the back seats down. Because the Odyssey has been on the market for over 25 years, there are plenty to choose from in various price ranges on the used market. The Honda Odyssey is the perfect mix of efficiency, reliability, and flexibility, making it an ideal family hauler for those looking to stretch their dollar.
The Honda Civic: An Economical Solution for Commuters
It’s no secret the Honda Civic is one of the best cars to buy if you’re looking for a reliable, fuel-efficient car on a budget. Not only are Civics great cars, but they retain their value better than most of the competition, making them a great investment. They have a reputation for being long-lasting, making them great if you want a vehicle that can take the commute and not cost you hundreds of extra dollars in repairs. The majority of Civic models see 100,000 miles and, following a proper maintenance schedule, have been reported to last upwards of 500,000 miles!
The Civic continues to impress drivers year after year with consistently high-performance ratings, great fuel efficiency, and low maintenance costs. Inside, the minimalist no-fuss interior and user-friendly tech make this vehicle easy to use and fun to drive. In case you’re not convinced, the 2012 Civic was named by U.S. News & World Report as one of the “Best Used Small Cars Under 10k” because of its high performance, responsive handling, and comfortable interior. While also in 2023, Kelley Blue Book ranked the Civic as one of its “Best Commuter Cars for Small Groups” thanks to its excellent fuel economy, standard safety features, and affordable price.
The Honda HR-V: Small Package, Big Value
The Honda subcompact crossover SUV is one of the most affordable vehicles Honda produces that you can buy new or used, even on a tight budget. This is great news for drivers looking for a small SUV they can rely on for their daily commute. The small subcompact SUV has been on the market since 2015, so while there isn’t an extensive backlog of used vehicles to choose from, that doesn’t mean one is out of reach. U.S. News & World Report also ranked the Honda HR-V #5 on its list of “Best Subcompact SUVs for 2022 and 2023.”
The HR-V has built a name for itself when it comes to reliability. Most models that are properly maintained have no problem reaching 100,000 miles and more. And if maintenance is something you’re worried about fitting into your monthly budget, don’t be. The HR-V is very much an economy car at its heart, making it affordable for routine maintenance like oil changes and filter replacement.
The HR-V has consistently received positive reviews from drivers over the years thanks to its smooth ride and responsive steering, which make it great for a person’s everyday driving needs, while the Honda Safety Sensing Suite has drivers covered, providing first-class safety and driver assist features to keep drivers and those they share the road with safe. The IIHS even gave the compact SUV its highest title, the Top Safety Pick+ title for 2023.
The Honda Accord: A Practical Money-Saving Solution on a Budget
The Honda Accord has been one of the top-selling sedans in America since its debut in the 1980s. Why? Because people shopping for a great car know a good value when they see it. Why keep looking when everything you need can be found in one great, affordable package? Used Accord models can usually be found for under $15k, and because there are so many years available, it’s easy for a person to find an Accord that fits their needs and budget. But just because the Accord is an economical choice doesn’t mean it’s lacking when it comes to performance or reliability. Drivers of Accords know the midsize sedan is the full package. The vehicle’s great fuel economy, low maintenance costs, and high reliability mean you’ll get plenty of flexibility and miles of trouble-free driving without hidden costs.
Don’t underestimate the appeal of the Accord. If you’re looking for a value powerhouse, the Accord is tough to beat when comparing it to its midsize rivals. It might look low-key in pictures, but behind the wheel is another story altogether. The sedan has bagged plenty of awards in its time, including a 2022 IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and being named “Best Midsize Car For The Money 2022” by U.S. News & World Report. The Accord was also named Kelley Blue Book’s “Best Buy” in 2022, further demonstrating just how celebrated this sedan is.
Honda Provides Value for a Wide Range of Drivers
Honda is one of those car brands that can be counted on to produce high-quality cars for the everyday driver. The Japanese automaker’s attention to detail and quality is apparent in every model, making them a favorite go-to brand for buyers looking for a great, long-lasting vehicle at a price that won’t break the bank. Whether you’re in the market for a sedan, SUV, or even a minivan, there’s a Honda out there to fit a variety of budgets and lifestyles, making it appealing to a vast number of drivers that want to get a little more for their money.
