Buyers looking for a new whip will have many options available to them if they have enough money to spend. Those shopping for cars under $55,000 are in a fortunate position because there is a wide variety to choose from: Plush sedans, sporty SUVs, hardy pickup trucks, and even a handful of new-fangled electric cars cost under $55k - and it’s not just lower-rung models. Top-spec Volvo SUVs and sedans are some of the best cars under $50,000, and the fantastic Toyota GR Corolla hot hatch can be had for way under this price. For family-focused buyers, there are minivans and big SUVs that are rated as some of the best cars under $50,000. This is a list of the best cars available in the USA for 2024 priced under $55k.
2024 Hyundai Palisade
- Base MSRP
- $36,650
- Fuel Economy
- 19/26/22 mpg (FWD) | 29/24/21 mpg (AWD)
- Horsepower
- 291 hp
2024 Toyota Grand Highlander
- Base MSRP
- $43,070
- Fuel Economy
- 21/28/24 mpg (FWD) | 21/27/23 mpg (best AWD)
- Horsepower
- 265 hp
Characteristics of The Best Cars Under $55k
What makes a vehicle worthy of a place on the list of the best cars under $55k? Value-focused buyers in the US want a good return on investment, and cars in this price bracket tend to offer the most. Here’s what you can expect from vehicles with a sticker price between $45k and $55k:
What to Consider When Buying Cars Under $55,000
Before splurging, you might want to weigh up the pros and cons of spending your hard-earned dollars - is it worth saving a few bucks and shopping in a cheaper segment, or does a higher price mean a higher value product?
Pros
- Top-end models in some lineups can be had in this bracket
- Good performance is readily available
- Loads of hybrid and EV options on offer
- Broad variety of body styles and configurations
- Good safety and reliability expectations
Cons
- Trucks and some SUV models exceed this price range in top specifications
- Higher initial outlay, naturally
- Available options see the price skyrocket over the limit
FAQs
Can you buy sports cars for $55k?
In this price range, there are a few performance-focused vehicles to consider. The iconic Toyota GR Supra offers two trims under $55k, while Volkswagen sells the spicy Golf R at a starting cost of around $45k. The BMW M240i xDrive Coupe is a hoot to drive and has an MSRP of just over $50k.
What are the best cars for $55k that can go off-road?
The legendary Jeep Wrangler starts and around $32k these days, and while the top-end Rubicon 392 costs way over $80k, you can get a top-spec model with some special equipment for between $40k and $55k. Similarly, the Ford Bronco ranges in price from $35k to $50k, with the capable Badlands trim under $50k.
Do you get electric cars under $55k?
There are many great EV options under $55k, with the award-winning Hyundai Ioniq 6 costing between $45 and $55k, depending on trim. The VW ID.4 goes for under $40k, and even in top-spec trim, is just a little over the $55k ceiling. A base-model BMW i4 has a price of $52k, while the Kia EV6 has a starting MSRP of under $50k.
What family cars can you buy for less than $55,000?
Without even considering sedans, there are minivans and SUVs in this price bracket that make excellent family haulers. These include the Chrysler Pacifica (starting around $40k), the Kia Carnival (maxing out at under $50k), the Hyundai Palisade (under $55k in top specification), and the hybrid Toyota Sienna (the range-topper costs around $53k).