Ranking The Best Affordable Sedans for 2021
Everyone has their own idea of what constitutes as the best affordable sedan for 2021. However, our goal is to keep things as objective as possible. In addition to a close examination of each sedan, we considered the improvements each manufacturer has made to each sedan. Other important considerations we made include the quality of the infotainment system, the comfort of the interior seating, safety features, fuel economy, and, of course, the performance and handling of the vehicle.
The 5 Best Affordable Sedans for 2021
While there are certainly some worthy honorable mentions that deserve recognition, we have found the best affordable sedans for 2021 to include the 2021 Mazda 6, 2021 Kia K5, 2021 Nissan Altima, 2021 Toyota Camry and the 2021 Subaru Legacy.
Affordable sedans that we like but barely missed the cut include the 2021 Hyundai Sonata, 2021 Honda Accord, 2021 Chevrolet Malibu, 2021 Volkswagen Passat and the 2021 Toyota Yaris. Some of the best luxury-style sedans for buyers with a larger budget include the 2021 Tesla Model S and the 2021 Mercedes Benz A-Class.
2021 Mazda 6
Price: The 2021 Mazda starts at $24,475.
The 2021 Mazda 6 is one of the more stylish sedans on this list. It has a luxury feel to it while offering a consumer-friendly price. It offers enough legroom to comfortably seat a family of five. The fuel economy is average for mid-size sedans, offering 26-29 mpg combined.
Pros: The best feature of the 2021 Mazda 6 is the luxury style that it provides at a more affordable price than the average luxury vehicle. It is also well-equipped with innovative smart technology as well.
Cons: It does not offer as much storage space as some rival sedans. There have also been some complaints about the OEM tires. The outward visibility leaves something to be desired as well. The 2021 Mazda 6 is not available in all-wheel drive.
Ratings:
- Edmunds: 8.1/10
- Car and Driver: 9.5/10
- U.S. News: 8.6/10
Image source: Mazda USA
2021 Kia K5
Price: The 2021 Kia K5 starts at $23,590.
The Kia K5, which is formerly known as the Kia Optima, features an innovative design and reliable performance. The 2021 Kia K5 has two turbocharged engines, which is rare for a sedan of such an affordable price. The first engine option features 180 horsepower and the second option has an impressive 290 horsepower. An all-wheel drive is also an option.
Pros: The feel and comfort are perhaps the most impressive components of the 2021 Kia K5. The upscale face with LED headlights gives the Kia K5 a professional and luxurious look. The K5 also features automatic climate control, emergency braking, lane keep assist and headlights with automatic high-beam control. This sedan also offers a quiet ride and comfortable interior seating.
Cons: The infotainment leaves something to be desired. While it adds aesthetic value, it is not equipped with the same level of bells and whistles as other affordable 2021 sedans. In particular, the bigger screen does not offer Apple CarPlay.
Ratings:
- Edmunds: 8.3/10
- Car & Driver: 8.5/10
- The Car Connection: 7.7/10
2021 Nissan Altima
Price: The 2021 Nissan Altima starts at $24,450.
The Nissan Altima, which has not always drawn the best reviews and reputation, went through a massive overhaul last year, which included the addition of all-wheel drive and a high-tech engine option. It also features a trustworthy 2.5-liter non-turbo engine.
Pros: Nissan has worked very hard on transforming and upgrading the performance of the Altima, and the 2021 Altima is likely to rank well among the competition. It also has advanced semi-autonomous features that give it a true “2021” feel. The option of all-wheel drive is appealing for many consumers as well. The Altima also gets good gas mileage (29-32 mpg).
Cons: There have been reports that the engine in the Altima is loud, which may affect the overall comfort of the ride. While it offers a comfortable interior, it may not match the style quality of a 2021 Mazda and other competitor models.
Ratings:
- Edmunds: 7.6/10
- Car & Driver: 8/10
- U.S. News: 7.9/10
2021 Toyota Camry
Price: The 2021 Toyota Camry starts at $25,045.
Toyota has spent a lot of time and effort revamping the 2021 Camry. They now offer the Camry in multiple models, including a Camry TRD (Toyota Racing Development) model that features a rear wing, blacked-out wheels and improved suspension. The base model features added style and a quality engine as well.
Pros: The 2021 Toyota Camry features one of the boldest looks among affordable sedans in 2021. It also has performed well in safety testing and offers a comfortable and quiet drive.
Cons: The 2021 Camry went through a bent of an overhaul, so Toyota may have some learning points as reviews start to come in from consumers. So far, one of the main complaints is in regard to the narrow rear door openings.
Ratings:
- Edmunds: 7.7/10
- Car & Driver: 8.5/10
- Kelley Blue Book: 3.7/5
2021 Subaru Legacy
Price: The 2021 Subaru Legacy starts at $22,895.
The 2021 Subaru Legacy is a great option for those who live in more extreme climates or handle roads that are a little more unpredictable. The 2021 Legacy offers all-wheel drive (standard) and Subaru focuses its development of the legacy on optimal safety and comfort.
Pros: The 2021 Subaru Legacy features a comfortable and spacious interior that offers a warm feeling which is perfect for escaping cold weather. All-wheel drive (AWD) is also standard for all 2021 Subaru Legacy models, which is a unique benefit that most other affordable sedans do not match.
Cons: One of the biggest fears manufacturers have with their more affordable sedans is being labeled “boring.” Unfortunately, in the eyes of many, the 2021 Subaru Legacy has not escaped this label, and many find the 2021 Subaru Legacy to be rather basic (although reliable).
Ratings:
- Edmunds: 7.4/10
- Car & Driver: 7.5/10
- U.S. News: 8.2/10
Ultimately, the best affordable sedan for 2021 depends on each individual’s personal preference and the criteria they choose. However, you cannot go wrong with any of these five models.
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