Fun Cars for Under $25k

Meet Seven New and Used Chevrolet Models You’ll Love to Drive

Shopping for new and used cars on a budget can be challenging. Check out this list of seven sweet Chevy cars for under $25k.

Looking at used cars is the best way to save money when shopping for a car on a budget. A few vehicles on this list come new for under $25k.

Whether you opt for a smaller, cheaper car or a used SUV, buying from Chevrolet guarantees you’ll get a quality vehicle. Check out this list of the top seven Chevy vehicles for under $25k to start your search on the right foot.

1. 2025 Chevrolet Trax

The 2025 Chevrolet Trax retails new with a starting MSRP of $21,795 for the base LS trim, which makes it a great option for budget shoppers. The Trax features a standard 1.2L turbo I-3 Ecotec engine with excellent fuel economy at an EPA-estimated 28/32 mpg city/highway.

2. 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt SS Sedan

If you’re more interested in used cars that can still pull their weight, the 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt SS is a quick, athletic sedan with a 260-hp 2.0L turbo 4-cyl Ecotec engine. The Cobalt SS can make it from 0 to 60 in 5.5 seconds and features a fine-tuned suspension for excellent handling. The only problem is that Chevrolet only built 474 of them.

3. 2023 Chevrolet Bolt

The 2023 Chevrolet Bolt is a fun-to-drive late-model EV well-known for its fast acceleration, precise control, and smooth ride. It has an EPA-estimated driving range of 259 miles and is a very affordable buy, with prices sometimes starting at less than $10,000.

4. 2015 Chevrolet SS

Few used cars for under $25k boast true speed. The 2015 Chevrolet SS is the exception to the rule. The sports sedan comes standard with a 6.2L LS3 V8 engine that’s good for an impressive 415 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque. It’s also lauded for responsive steering and cornering stability.

You may have to wait a while before finding this sports sedan for under $25k, but they become available periodically in that price range.

5. 2014 Chevrolet Sonic RS

The 2014 Chevy Sonic RS is a fun daily driver, particularly if you can find a model with a turbocharged 1.4L 4-cyl engine. The RS also features a sport steering wheel and disc brakes on all four wheels for easy stopping. You can find them for between $6k and $16k.

6. 2011 Chevrolet Corvette Coupe

Not everyone shopping for used cars is looking for a daily driver. If you want something more exciting, consider the 2011 Chevy Corvette Coupe. It features a 6.2L V8 engine that is good for 430 hp and 424 lb-ft of torque and a standard six-speed manual gearbox. The 2011 Corvette Coupe can do 0 to 60 in 4.2 seconds.

7. 2019 Chevrolet Volt

Drivers looking for plug-in hybrids for under $25k have limited options, but the 2019 Chevy Volt is one of them. Known for its fantastic handling and remarkable acceleration, it’s a joy to drive yet still a practical daily commuter thanks to its hybrid powertrain. Expect an average of 42 mpg combined city/highway fuel economy.