Consumers look for increased value in new vehicles as wallets tighten

Costs for repair parts, auto services, fuel, electricity, insurance, and more continue to rise as total price tag of ownership increases.

New York—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:

Subcompact SUV Winner: Chevrolet Trax LS
- Top Finishers: Hyundai Kona SE, Nissan Kicks S
Compact SUV Winner: Kia Sportage Hybrid S
- Top Finishers: Honda CR-V LX, Nissan Rogue S
Mid-Size SUV Winner: Hyundai Palisade SE
- Top Finishers: Honda Passport RTL, Toyota Grand Highlander LE
Compact Car Winner: Toyota Corolla Hybrid LE
- Top Finishers: Hyundai Elantra SE, Mazda3 2.5 S sedan
Small Pickup Truck Winner: Ford Maverick XL
Mid-Size Pickup Truck Winner: Toyota Tacoma SR5
- Top Finishers: Honda Ridgeline Sport, Nissan Frontier SV
Large Pickup Truck Winner: Ford F-150 XL
- Top Finishers: Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LT, Ram 1500 Big Horn/Lone Star
Electric Vehicle Winner: Hyundai Ioniq 5 SE
- Top Finishers: Chevrolet Equinox EV LT 2, Tesla Model 3