5th place: 2024 Hyundai Elantra Essential: $21,999 + $2,497 in fees
Hyundai Elantra | Photo: Hyundai
Given that the Kia Forte and Hyundai Elantra are mechanical twins, it's only logical that they should follow each other in this ranking. The Elantra, however, is a little more expensive due to its additional costs, but is just as interesting.
Like the Forte, this compact car has proven itself in terms of reliability, maintenance costs and fuel economy. And true to South Korean products, it offers a lot for the money, coming standard with driver assistance technologies such as lane departure warning and collision avoidance.
See: New 2024 Hyundai Elantra Presented for North America
Hyundai Elantra, grey | Photo: Hyundai
Exterior design of Hyundai Elantra | Photo: Hyundai