Sticker price is one element that many drivers can't help but consider as they are shopping for a new car. To help motorists navigate the tumultuous auto industry, Cars.com recently compiled a list of the most affordable midsize sedans. The website looked at the average retail price of a new model, as well as the estimated cost of fuel over the first five years of ownership.
Once all of the data was collected, Cars.com found that the 2013 Kia Optima is the most affordable midsize sedan on the market. Even with the Convenience Plus Package, the Optima boasts a low price without sacrificing amenities like Bluetooth connectivity and a rearview camera, among others. It also projects to have low vehicle maintenance costs over its life.
"The Optima topped the list because of its combination of great features, low price and impressive estimated five-year fuel cost," said Patrick Olsen, editor-in-chief of Cars.com. "With an estimated $9,750 in fuel cost over five years, the Optima topped out at just $32,975, which is more than $3,000 lower than the average midsize sedan for the same period of time."
Other midsize sedans to land on the list were the 2013 Nissan Altima SV, the 2013 Honda Accord Sport, the 2014 Mazda6 Touring and the 2013 Kia Optima Hybrid LX.