The true cost of owning a vehicle, whether new or used, extends far beyond its initial sticker price. If you are planning to shop for a new ride in 2026, the real value lies in brands that not only have a low purchase price but also **hold their worth** and don’t drain your wallet with excessive ownership expenses over time.
Affordability is measured by a combination of factors: depreciation, insurance, maintenance, financing charges, and fuel costs. According to data analyzed by CarEdge, here are the five most affordable car brands to own for five years, providing exceptional value and minimal financial stress.
1. Fiat: The Urban Electric Champion
Five-year Cost to Own: $35,266
The Italian automaker Fiat currently focuses its U.S. lineup on the electric market with the 500e electric hatchback. With an average new price of $34,095, the total cost to own only pushes that number up slightly to just over $35,200 over five years—an impressive indicator of efficiency and low running costs.
According to Kelley Blue Book (KBB), the Fiat 500e might not boast the longest range among EVs, but its compact design makes it an ideal choice for city driving, where its low fuel (electricity) costs and ease of parking truly shine. Its simplicity also translates directly to lower maintenance and fewer moving parts, contributing to its top ranking in affordability.
2. Mitsubishi: Warranty and Efficiency Leader
Five-year Cost to Own: $39,916
Mitsubishi demonstrates that affordability doesn't mean compromising on commitment. While the average new price for its models ranges widely, the average total cost to own over five years for all models sits attractively at $39,916.
Mitsubishi’s diverse lineup includes highly efficient, lower-cost options like the **Mirage** (averaging $19,590 new) and the popular **Outlander SUV** (averaging $40,683). Beyond the purchase price, U.S. News & World Report highlights a critical advantage: Mitsubishi offers one of the **longest warranties in the industry**—a reassuring 10 years or 100,000 miles on the powertrain—which significantly helps keep unexpected ownership costs low. Smaller models like the Mirage are also renowned for their better-than-average fuel economy.
3. Mazda: Blending Value with Premium Feel
Five-year Cost to Own: $44,551
Mazda has successfully carved out a niche by offering vehicles that possess a premium, almost luxurious feel without the high price tag. With new prices ranging between $33,443 and $53,795, the average five-year cost to own for all models is reported by CarEdge to be $44,551.
Mazda’s line of CX SUVs—including two- and three-row options—consistently rank high in Consumer Reports' rankings for reliability and customer satisfaction. The brand's focus on engineering provides solid fuel economy across the lineup, and many models are now available as plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), offering the flexibility of electric driving without range anxiety, further lowering fuel expenses.
4. Subaru: The All-Weather Reliability King
Five-year Cost to Own: $45,070
Subaru’s strong resale value and durable engineering cement its position as a highly affordable brand to own. Their new vehicles cost, on average, between $28,373 and $48,828, with an attractive average five-year ownership cost of $45,070.
Subaru is synonymous with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD), providing enhanced safety and performance in all weather conditions. Models like the Outback, Forester, and Crosstrek are favorites among families and outdoor enthusiasts due to their rugged reliability and superior safety ratings. Crucially for long-term affordability, the Subaru Crosstrek was placed No. 1 in KBB’s 2025 Best Resale Value: SUVs list, meaning owners recoup a large percentage of their initial cost when they eventually sell.
5. Honda: The Reputation for Enduring Quality
Five-year Cost to Own: $45,100
Honda consistently delivers on its reputation for quality, making the average five-year ownership cost a very competitive $45,100. The average new price for a Honda ranges from $27,867 to $58,181.
For decades, Honda has been praised for its legendary reliability and outstanding fuel efficiency, particularly across its core models: the Civic, Accord, and CR-V. High reliability translates directly into lower maintenance costs and fewer unexpected repairs. Honda's market value is further confirmed by its multiple industry accolades, winning five KBB 2025 Consumer Choice awards—more than any other brand.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What factors are included in the 'Five-year Cost to Own' metric?
The 'Five-year Cost to Own' calculation provides a comprehensive view of ownership expenses, extending beyond the purchase price. It typically includes anticipated depreciation (loss in value), insurance premiums, estimated maintenance and repair costs, financing interest charges, and total fuel consumption costs over the five-year period.
Why is Fiat ranked as the most affordable car brand to own?
Fiat's current U.S. lineup is centered around the all-electric 500e. Its high ranking is primarily due to its extremely low fuel costs (electricity being cheaper than gasoline) and low maintenance requirements typical of EVs. The small difference between its initial sticker price and the five-year ownership cost reflects its efficiency and simple engineering.
How does a long warranty lower the cost of ownership?
A long warranty, such as Mitsubishi’s 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain coverage, significantly lowers the financial risk for the owner. By covering major mechanical failures for a longer period, it eliminates the possibility of incurring expensive repair costs during the early and mid-years of ownership, thereby reducing the calculated 'Cost to Own' metric.
Why are high resale values important for affordability?
A car's resale value is crucial because it directly affects its depreciation, which is often the single largest cost of ownership. Brands like Subaru, which are known for high resale values, depreciate less rapidly. When the owner eventually sells or trades the vehicle, they recoup a larger portion of their initial investment, making the net cost of using the car lower.