2025 Car Buying Guide
Best New Cars Under $35,000
At $35k, you unlock 3-row SUVs, midsize trucks, and seriously capable family vehicles. Here's where space meets value.
What $35k Gets You
Avg. Monthly Payment
$540-$620
60 mo @ 7% APR
3-Row SUV Access
Yes
base models available
Truck Options
5+
midsize trucks
Top 10 New Cars Under $35,000
This is the family budget—where you get 3-row SUVs for the kids, trucks for the weekend projects, and midsize vehicles with real space. These are the best options.
Toyota Highlander L
3-Row SUVMPG: 21/29 (city/highway)
$34,970
Starting MSRP
Kia Telluride LX
3-Row SUVMPG: 20/26 (city/highway)
$34,990
Starting MSRP
Honda Passport Sport
Midsize SUVMPG: 20/27 (city/highway)
$34,400
Starting MSRP
Ford Maverick XLT
Compact TruckMPG: 26/33 (city/highway)
$27,490
Starting MSRP
Toyota Tacoma SR
Midsize TruckMPG: 19/24 (city/highway)
$34,280
Starting MSRP
Hyundai Santa Fe SE
Midsize SUVMPG: 26/29 (city/highway)
$32,400
Starting MSRP
Subaru Outback
Wagon/SUVMPG: 26/32 (city/highway)
$31,340
Starting MSRP
Honda Accord Sport
SedanMPG: 29/37 (city/highway)
$32,890
Starting MSRP
Mazda CX-90 3.3 Turbo
3-Row SUVMPG: 24/28 (city/highway)
$34,750
Starting MSRP
Chevrolet Colorado LT
Midsize TruckMPG: 18/25 (city/highway)
$34,100
Starting MSRP
Best 3-Row SUV: Kia Telluride
The Telluride has won nearly every comparison test since its debut. At just under $35k, the base LX model delivers what matters: space for 8, a premium interior feel, and excellent driving dynamics. It punches way above its price class.
Best Value Truck: Ford Maverick
The Maverick changed the truck game. Starting at $27,490 with a hybrid powertrain getting 37 MPG combined, it's the most fuel-efficient truck ever made. The 4.5-foot bed handles most weekend projects, and there's budget left for accessories.
Best for Adventure: Subaru Outback
Not quite an SUV, not quite a wagon—the Outback is its own thing. Standard AWD, 8.7 inches of ground clearance, and wagon versatility make it perfect for active lifestyles. It's the original crossover.
Family Buying Tip
At this price, you can get a well-equipped compact SUV OR a base 3-row SUV. If you truly need the third row regularly, prioritize space. But if it's occasional use, a compact with more features may be the smarter buy.
3-Row SUV Comparison
| Model | Seats | Cargo (behind 3rd) | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kia Telluride LX | 8 | 21.0 cu ft | $34,990 |
| Toyota Highlander L | 8 | 16.0 cu ft | $34,970 |
| Mazda CX-90 | 8 | 14.9 cu ft | $34,750 |
Truck Buying at $35k
- The Ford Maverick offers best MPG but smallest bed
- Toyota Tacoma has legendary resale—you'll get more back at trade-in
- Chevy Colorado has the most refined interior at this price
- Consider crew cab vs. extended cab based on passenger needs
Compare Real Prices
See what families are actually paying for these vehicles.