Drivers have many options when it comes to affordable vehicles nowadays, as automakers have recently focused on providing fuel efficient and compact vehicles. Whereas affordable cars in the past were stripped down and lacking many basic options, today's value cars are well-equipped machines with good fuel economy and power.
MSN recently published its picks for the best models under $20,000, and the list showed just how diverse this price range has become. Subcompact cars were well represented, like the Fiat 500, as were traditional budget vehicles like the Nissan Versa and Mazda5. However, other picks to make the list included the Jeep Patriot, which is more of an SUV, and the Toyota Tacoma, a pickup truck that is far more affordable than most of its competition in the segment. Other cars to make the list included the Kia Soul, Ford Fiesta and Volkswagen Jetta, among others.
Those who are looking at cars under $20,000 will likely be hoping to save money whenever possible when it comes to their vehicle. Although it may not seem like it, regular auto maintenance is actually one of the best money-saving strategies, as a simple tune-up can catch problems before they turn into larger and more expensive car repairs.