Cheapest New Cars in Canada for 2018

Every year more Canadian’s are moving into populated urban centres, looking for new ways to get around. With all the options available, finding a vehicle for a family of four that can fit into tight parking spaces can be a challenge. Finding a new vehicle that’s fuel-efficient and doesn’t break the bank comes with a whole new set of questions.

In this article, we make things easy. Here we’ve broken down the cheapest new cars in Canada for 2018 based on MSRP (Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price) and discussed each vehicles highlights so you can make sure that they fit into your busy lifestyle.

2018 Nissan Micra S Manual

Starting MSRP: $9,988 CAD

The Nissan Micra is currently the cheapest car in Canada and makes for a popular choice amongst those looking for a compact vehicle to drive within a busy city. The cost-effective, economical model S comes standard with the following highlights:

• 1.6-litre DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder engine
• Five-speed manual transmission
• ABS brakes
• Electronic stability control
• Airbags all around
• Customizable mirror covers, door handles, sports stripe and rear hatch finishers

Unfortunately, there is not much else included in the base model, however, this is justified by the incredible price point. For air conditioning and cruise control, you are required to choose the automatic S model which will jump up the cost to $13,888 (MSRP).

If you are looking for additional featured, the Micra also comes available in the SV model (MSRP $14,288) which adds heated side mirrors, as well as, remote keyless entry and power windows. Finally, the sportier SR trim (MSRP $17,388) features a rear roof spoiler, front fog lights, contrast-stitch seats, USB connectivity and a rear-view monitor.

Designed for your everyday convenience, the Nissan Micra is compact enough to fit into tight parking spaces and is a great and economical choice for those looking to get from point A to point B without needing additional frills. However, compared to other vehicles on this list, the Micra sits on the higher end of fuel economy – 8.7L/100KM in the city. Nevertheless, the Nissan Micra was voted 2018’s Best Buy in the City Car Category by The Car Guide, making it one of the best compact cars in Canada for 2018.

2018 Chevrolet Spark LS Manual

Starting MSRP: $10,095

Although not the cheapest new car in Canada, the Chevrolet Spark was built for narrow streets and small parking lots. This bold looking subcompact comes jam-packed with the following highlights:

• 1.4L ECOTEC DOHC 4-cylinder engine
• Five-speed manual transmission
• Seven-inch touchscreen
• Android Auto and Apple CarPlay Access
• Backup Camera
• 10 airbags

This makes the Spark one of the safest subcompacts in its class and is one of the few on our list to come standard with a touchscreen display and entertainment features.

Much like the Micra, air conditioning and cruise control are going to run you up an additional $4,000 as you’ll have to upgrade to the automatic Spark LS CVT model (MSRP $13,995). Power windows are also unavailable unless upgrading to the 1LT Manual Model (MSRP $14,295).

If you’re looking to splurge on more safety and tech features, the Spark 2LT CVT (MSRP $18,395) is the only model that has what you’re looking for – Forward Collision and Lane Departure alerts, keyless start and heated seats.

While more expensive than the Micra, the Spark is surprisingly good on gas, only 8.0L/100KM in the city. A great choice for those looking to save money on commuting while still purchasing a new vehicle.

2018 Mitsubishi Mirage ES 5MT

Starting MSRP: $10,988

While the Mitsubishi Mirage may be third on the total poll of cheapest new vehicles, a customer rebate of $1000 is available in all provinces but Quebec. This knocks down the price to $9,998 MSRP which is only $10 more expensive than its rival, the Nissan Micra.

When comparing the two, the Mirage does come equipped with a smaller base engine, however, this allows for it to stay more fuel efficient. Sitting at 7.1L/100km in the city as opposed to Micra’s 8.7L/100KM, the Mirage is the most fuel-efficient city car on our list.

Another note worth mentioning is that the Mirage does come equipped with a number of standard features that are only available in Micra’s costlier models:

• 1.2 L DOHC MIVEC 3-cylinder engine
• 5-speed manual transmission
• Front Power Windows
• A/C
• Remote Keyless Entry
• Rear-view Camera
• Bluetooth
• Steering wheel-mounted audio controls
• Tilt steering.

The 2018 Mitsubishi Mirage is a smart choice for both the environment and those looking for more features in a base-model vehicle. The great gas mileage is also a perk, allowing you to travel longer for less.

2017 Hyundai Accent L Manual 

Starting MSRP: $13,999

The Hyundai Accent has come a long way since its first debut in 1994. This affordable car is offered as both a 4-door sedan and a 5-door hatchback to accommodate a variety of buyers. While the base model does not offer as many features as some of the rivals in its class, it does come equipped with the following highlights:

• 1.6L GDI engine
• Six-speed manual transmission
• AM/FM/CD/MP3/USP/iPod Audio System
• Power door locks
• Electronic stability control
• Traction control
• Vehicle stability management

With the bigger engine, the Accent can produce 137 worth of horsepower and 123 lb-ft of torque, however, this makes the vehicle the least fuel friendly (sitting at 8.9 L/100KM in the city). Luckily, the Accent does hold its own when comparing cargo space, with the hatchback models providing 21 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats. With the rear seats folded, the hatchback has a cargo space of 47.5 cubic feet, making it a great subcompact vehicle for those who need the space for travel.

2018 Nissan Versa Note S Manual

Starting MSRP: $14,498

Personality meets function in the 2018 Versa Note.  The Versa is another affordable car for Nissan lovers who are looking for more space and better fuel efficiency. The 3,197 litres of interior volume beat out the Ford Fiesta, Honda Fit and Hyundai Accent, making it a great choice for drivers over 6′ tall or road trips with the family.

The Versa Note comes standard with the following highlights:

• 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine
• 5-speed manual transmission
• A/C
• Bluetooth
• Hands-free phone system

However, just like in the Micra, power windows and cruise control are not included unless jumping up to the costlier SV model (MSRP $16,988). The hatchback also includes a sportier SR Model (MSRP $19,698) which comes equipped with a rear roof spoiler, sport side sills and premium sport synthetic suede seats with orange accents and stitching.

Comparing fuel efficiency, the Versa Note sits at 8.6L/100KM for city drivers, making it a tad more fuel efficient than the Micra (8.7L/100KM). All in all, this subcompact is a great choice for parents looking for roominess and fuel efficiency without compromising on price. If you’re looking for a cheap new car in Canada, this one’s a classic.

2018 Kia Rio LX-MT Manual

Starting MSRP: $14,995

While not as popular as the other models on the list, the fourth-generation Rio has made quite a debut, especially with our neighbours in the US. The Rio offers plenty of space for four passengers, with an option for a fifth and plenty of cargo space for shopping trips around the city. The entry-level model also offers some upscale features, which are not included in the other base models on our list. The standard highlights include:

• 1.6L GDI four-cylinder engine
• 6 – speed manual transmission
• Heated front seats
• Leather-wrapped and heated steering wheel
• Rear-view camera
• Power windows
• AM/FM/CD stereo system with AUX connectivity and USB input ports
• Bluetooth

Cruise control and air conditioning are only available on the upgraded LX+ MT model, which starts at $16,595 (MSRP). At 8.3L/100KM in the city, the Rio is quite fuel-efficient compared to the other 1.6L engine vehicles on this list. The Rio is a great choice for buyers that are looking for a cheap new small car with a few premium standard features.

2018 Honda Fit DX Manual

Starting MSRP: $15,190   

This crowd pleaser is practical in both design and cost, sporting the most upscale interior in its class. In addition to being a looker, the 2018 Honda Fit offers more legroom and cargo space than its rivals, the Ford Fiesta and Kia Rio. For drivers looking for lots of tech and safety features, you’re in luck, the Honda Fit comes standard with a range of techy features and driver assistant technologies. Here are the highlights:

• 1.5L DOHC four-cylinder engine
• 6 – speed manual transmission
• Eco Assist System
• Multi-angle rear-view camera
• 60/40 split 2^nd row seat
• 160-watt AM/FM audio system, MP3, USB device connectors and Bluetooth
• Power door locks and windows
• 5” LCD screen
• Auto-Off Headlights
• Brake Assist
• Traction Control

Air conditioning is not included unless upgrading to the LX model (MSRP $18,590) which will also get you cruise control, Apple CarPlay/ Android Auto and WiFi tethering.

The Honda Fit is a reliable choice for a family of four needing good fuel economy in the city (8.1L/100KM) or just a driver looking for more tech and safety features. The subcompact also managed to win the Best Subcompact Car Resale Value Award by Kelley Blue Book in 2017, making this a great vehicle for those looking to purchase an inexpensive brand new vehicle.

2018 Toyota Yaris 3DR CE Manual

Starting MSRP: $15,490

Much like its competition, the Toyota Yaris is made for the urban jungle. The responsive steering and small stature, make a great recipe for wheezing through traffic and fitting into the tightest of parking spots. Even though its small, the Yaris is focused on safety, coming standard with three active safety systems – Pre-Collision System, Lane Departure Alert and Automatic High Beams. This commuter car comes with the following highlights:

• 1.5L DOHC four‑cylinder engine
• 5-speed manual transmission
• 6.1″ Display Audio
• Bluetooth^® Capability
• AM/FM CD with MP3 Player
• Heated Front Seats
• Backup Camera
• Power Windows

If you’re looking for air conditioning and cruise control, you will need to upgrade to the 5DR LE model (MSRP $16,800) which will also get you remote keyless entree, two extra doors and Child Protector Rear Door Locks.

The Toyota Yaris is also great on gas, averaging 7.8L/100km in the city, which is only beat by the Mitsubishi Mirage. The subcompact has also won 6 awards in 2016, one of which named it “an excellent value” by IntelliChoice. It also scored a 9.5 on reliability from Kelly Blue Book.

All in all, the Toyota Yaris is a safe and popular commuter car, made for getting from point A to B with ease.

2018 Mazda Mazda3 GX Manual 

Starting MSRP: $16,000

Among the cheapest new vehicles in Canada, the Mazda3 is definitely a looker. Available as both a Sedan and Hatchback (if upgrading to sport), the 2018 Madza3 shows off a sharp look, luxurious interior and noble driving dynamics. Although pricier, the Mazda3 won an award for Best Small Car in Canada for 2018 by AJAC, a fitting title for a stylish, practical and comfortable car. The standard noteworthy features include:

•  2.0 L DOHC four-cylinder engine
• 6-speed manual transmission
• Audio display screen
• AM/FM radio with 4 speakers
• USB and auxiliary audio input jacks
• Push Button Start
• Remote keyless entry system with trunk release and panic mode
• Power windows with driver’s one-touch up and down feature and timer

For air conditioning, you are required to upgrade to the Comfort Package ($1,350 extra) and for cruise control, navigation and Bluetooth, the Convenience package is required ($1,550 extra).

The Mazda3 does about 8.5L/100km on the highway, which is a bit higher compared to its rivals, however, the faster engine and dynamic handling may make up for it, especially if you’re looking to have more fun on the road. Standing tall as one of the fastest subcompact cars on our list, the Maza3 is an affordable, fun-to-drive choice for someone looking for a luxurious and sporty feel.

2018 Ford Fiesta S Manual

Starting MSRP: $16,580

The Ford Fiesta is another vehicle on our list that is available as both a sedan and a hatchback. No matter which version you go with, between the trims, the Fiesta is a great choice for those who are looking to add a little bit of personality into their car. Starting off with the exterior colours, the Fiesta gives you a choice of 10 paint colours, including Outrageous Green Metallic, Hot Pepper Red and Lightning Blue. The interior also offers 10 different material and colour combinations, making the car uniquely yours. The Fiesta comes standard with the following standard highlights:

• 1.6L Ti-VCT I-4 Engine
• 5 – speed manual transmission
• Manual Air Conditioning
• Rear view camera
• 15-inch steel wheels with silver-painted cover
• Remote Keyless Entry
• AM/FM Stereo with CD/MP3 Capability

Much like the Nissan cars, the Fiesta does not come standard with power windows, unless moving up to the automatic SE Model (MSRP $18,730). The Fiesta is also on the higher end of fuel efficiency, running at 8.6L/100KM in the city which is comparable to the Nissan Versa. The Fiesta did win a Kelley Blue Book award back in 2017 for Fair Purchase Price and Low Maintenance Cost, making the Fiesta a reliable choice for the Ford lovers looking for an affordable vehicle.

Other cheap subcompact cars for 2018 we didn’t mention are the Nissan Sentra (MSRP $15,898) and the Hyundai Elantra (MSRP $15,999). Both are a great choice for city drivers looking for minimal features but more space.

No matter your choice, at Cheap Cars Canada, we believe that every Canadian deserves to own a vehicle, regardless of their credit situation. With the largest network of dealerships across Canada and thousands of vehicles to choose from, we are transforming the way Canadians buy their vehicles. Find the best car dealers in your area! Give us a call today at 1-855-214-3552 or apply here to find a reliable car for a price you can afford!

* All photos, prices and features were taken from the automaker’s corporate site.