The 10 Cheapest New Cars You Can Buy In Canada for 2019

We all know the saying “Good Things Come in Small Packages,” right?

The years-old saying rings true if you’re looking to find a compact vehicle to fit your needs and your budget. With the average cost of a new vehicle rising to a whopping $36,000, many Canadians are looking for a fuel-efficient alternative that doesn’t break the bank.

But, how do you find a car to juggle a family at a fair price point? We’ve rounded up the top 10 cheapest new cars you can buy in Canada for 2019 based on MSRP. These cars are half the cost of an average Canadian vehicle (staying under $17,000) and come standard with a lot of the modern features found in expensive cars.

What is MSRP?

MSRP refers to the Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price, meaning the cheapest submodel starting price (usually manual vehicles). When you’re doing your research, you’ll notice that all marketing and advertising materials related to your car feature an MSRP. This is the lowest cash price you can pay for your vehicle (not including the licencing, registration and delivery fees that may be associated).

Since manual models are no longer a consumer favourite, we’ve decided to discuss all the vehicle trims, along with their cost and upgrades. If you’re simply looking for the cheapest manufacturer, then Nissan Canada is the way to go. Nissan has managed to snag 3 spots on our list, with all 3 models falling under $17,000.

What about Monthly Payments?

Monthly payments vary month over month. That’s because every month manufacturers come up with new lease, finance and cash incentives. Sometimes they are in the form of rebates ($1,500 rebate when you lease a Nissan Sentra…) or interest rate changes (0% financing for 60 months…). If you’ve been waiting on a great deal, the best time to buy is during the beginning or end of the year. This is because dealers are looking to get rid of last years stock and put new inventory in the showroom. Negotiating also becomes easier, as salespeople are encouraged to get rid of last year’s models.

To budget for your next vehicle, be sure to consult the car payment calculator available on the manufacturer’s website.

The 10 Cheapest Cars You Can Buy In Canada for 2019

2019 Chevrolet Spark Manual

MSRP: $10,095

That’s right – The Chevrolet Spark has snagged the title of “Cheapest New Car in Canada” and we couldn’t be more surprised! Since its redesign in 2016, the Spark sports a sleek and modern design, perfect for the creative types looking for a little bit of fun in their next vehicle.

The standard 2LT CVT model comes equipped with a 1.4L ECOTEC 4- cylinder engine and a 5-speed manual transmission. Other standard features include:

98 Horsepower
8.0L/100km in the City
6.0L/100km on the Highway
60/40 split-folding rear bench seat
4G LTE Wi-Fi® hotspot capable
Bluetooth Hands-free Phone System
Chevrolet 7” Infotainment System
Apple Carplay and Android Auto compatibility
Rear Vision Camera

Moving up to an automatic transmission will jump up the price to $14,295 but will get you continuously variable transmissions and single-zone manual climate controls. The Spark also comes available as a 1LT Manual ($14,695) and a 1LT CVT ($15,895) but only adds 15” aluminum wheels, air conditioning, power windows and power door locks as an incentive. The final trim, 2LT CVT ($19,095) comes at a significant price increase but offers leatherette seating surfaces, a power sunroof, forward collision alerts and lane departure warnings.

If you’ve been known to lose your car in the parking lot on more than one occasion, have no fear! This stylish subcompact now comes available in four bold colours, like Caribbean Blue, Orange Burst, Raspberry and Passion Fruit.

There’s no denying that the Chevrolet Spark makes buying a car seem easy – featuring an impressive number of features at a shockingly cheap price. If cargo space is not a priority, the Spark is one of the best small cars in Canada and is a great choice for those looking for exceptional fuel economy and ease of parking in tight spaces.

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2019 Nissan Micra Manual

MSRP: $10,488

The Nissan Micra has been the cheapest car on the market for years, however, with the mandatory addition of the backup camera, the Micra now holds the second spot. Designed for everyday life in a crowded city, the Micra’s fun-to-drive reputation is gaining popularity fast.

The standard S model comes equipped with a 1.6L DOHC 16-valve 4- cylinder engine and five-speed manual transmission. Other standard features include:

109 Horsepower
8.7L/100km in the City
6.8L/100km on the Highway
60/40 split fold-down rear seats
AM/FM audio system with auxiliary jack
RearView Camera
Bluetooth Hands-free Phone System
Siri Eye-Free

Moving up to an automatic transmission will jump the cost to a whopping $14,298 but will add air-conditioning, cruise control and steering wheel controls to the model. Next up the SV model ($15,598) features remote keyless entry and power windows, while the sportier SR ($17,598) adds a rear roof spoiler, fog lights, rearview monitor and USB connectivity to the model.

If you’re tall, the Micra comes in at 40.7” of head-room and a generous 41.4” of legroom in the front (which is quite impressive for a subcompact car on the market). Sitting at an overall length of 150.7” the Nissan Micra was made for tight parking spots and narrow roads.

If a fuel-efficient and affordable small car is what you’re after, the Nissan Micra should maneuver its way to the top of your car shopping list.

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2019 Mitsubishi Mirage Manual

MSRP: $10,998

The Mitsubishi Mirage may be the third cheapest car on our list but comes first for fuel economy. The stylish Europen-inspired design also comes with a 10-year powertrain limited warranty, making it the perfect subcompact for a commuters lifestyle and budget.

The standard ES 5MT model comes equipped with a 1.2L DOHC MIVEC 3 cylinder engine and a 5-speed manual transmission. Other standard specifications include:

74 Horsepower
6.6L/100km in the City
5.6L/100km on the Highway
60/40 split-folding rear bench seat
AM/FM/CD player with four speakers
Auto-off halogen headlamps
Front power windows
Rear vision camera

The Mirage is also available with a continuously variable transmission (ES CVT) but will jump up the cost to $12,198 with no additional features to show for it. However, both the manual ES Plus 5MT ($14,998) and the automatic ES Plus CVT ($16,198) offer air conditioning, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, Remote Keyless entry, cruise control and power rear windows.

The ES Limited CVT ($16,998) adds 15” black-painted alloy wheels, front fog lamps, black roof panels, rear spoiler, door mirrors, leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear shift knob with red stitching, as well as a “Limited Edition” badge.

Finally, the sportier GT CTV ($18,798) offers 15” alloy wheels, HID headlamps, heated front seats, automatic climate control, keyless entry and push-button start.

While this isn’t the cheapest car to buy in Canada, this value-packed subcompact is easy on the eyes and your wallet. All that plus, a well-appointed interior made out of high-grade materials for a comfortable and pleasurable ride.

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2019 Hyundai Accent Manual

MSRP: $14,599

The Accent finished fourth on our list of cheapest new small cars. Although virtually unchanged from last years design, the Accent comes jampacked with a spacious and attractive interior as well as a great assortment of available features.

The standard Essential Manual model comes equipped with a 1.6L GDI engine and a 6-speed manual transmission. Other standard features include:

130 Horsepower
8.2L/100km in the City
6.3L/100km on the Highway
60/40 split-folding rear bench seat
5.0” Colour touchscreen
iPod®/USB and MP3 auxiliary input jacks
Rear spoiler
Rear vision camera

Jumping to an automatic package will up your cost to $17,349 but will include air-conditioning, a Bluetooth hands-free phone system and steering-wheel-mounted audio controls. If you prefer manual, the $17,549 Accent is available and features 15” alloy wheels, heated front seats, remote keyless entry and a 7.0” touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple Carplay. The Preferred Auto model includes the same features but changes the price to $18,799.

Finally, the Ultimate Manual ($20,049) and the Ultimate Auto ($21,299) include Preferred features, plus LED headlights with LED daytime running lights, proximity keyless entry system with push-button start, leather-wrapped heated steering wheel and forward collision avoidance assist.

The Accent is a great car, known for its roomy seats, decent handling and user-friendly tech features. The best-in-class cargo space (616 litres) rivals the popular Nissan Versa Note, Honda Fit and event Jeep Renegade. Even better, you can choose between a 4-door or 5-door design to fit your unique style.

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2019 Nissan Versa Note Manual

MSRP: $14,698

So it may not be the cheapest small Nissan on the market, but the Versa Note surely packs a punch – with custom colour and style options to fit any personality. The spacious seats and ample cargo space are a great fit for a downtown family looking for a car that doesn’t break the bank.

The standard S model comes equipped with a 1.6L DOHC 4-cylinder engine and a 5-speed manual transmission. Other standard features include:

109 Horsepower
8.6L/100km in the City
6.6L/100km on the Highway
60/40 split-folding rear bench seat
7.0” Colour touchscreen
Rear vision camera

Choosing to upgrade to the SV model will cost you $18,398, but will improve your fuel efficiency (7.6/6.2) and include 15” aluminum-alloy wheels, heated front seats, upgraded seat cloth and stitching, remote keyless entry and a divide-n-hide adjustable floor. If technology is what you’re after, the SV Special Edition ($19,098) comes packed with push-button ignition, SiriusXM Sattelite Radio, Apple Carplay and Android Auto, rear spoiler and fog lights.

Beating out the Ford Fiesta, Honda Fit and Hyundai Accent, the 40.8” of headroom and 41.3” of legroom are a perfect choice for drivers over 6’ tall. The Note also beats out its own sibling, the Micra, in fuel-efficiency. If you’re looking for a classic that provides roominess and fuel-efficiency, the Versa Note is definitely a good bang for your buck.

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2018 KIA Rio Hatchback Manual

MSRP$14,995 CAD

Coming in as both a sedan ($14,795) and a hatchback, the fourth-generation Rio makes quite a splash. Its sporty driving dynamics, user-friendly interior and near perfect reliability ratings make this subcompact stand out from its competitors.

The standard LX MT model comes equipped with a 1.6L GDI 4-cylinder engine and a 6-speed manual transmission. Other trim highlights include:

130 Horsepower
8.3L/100km in the City
6.4L/100km on the Highway
60/40 split-folding rear bench seat
Heated front seats
5” LCD Audio Display
Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel
Bluetooth Hands-Free Cell Phone Connectivity
Rear vision camera

If upgrading to the next manual LX+MT ($16,595) or automatic LX+ AT ($17,995) trim, air conditioning and steering-wheel-mounted cruise controls become available. Your next choice, the EX AT ($20,945) gives you access to a 7” LCD audio display, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration, sunroof and fully automatic climate controls. If a sporty model is what you’re after, the EX Sport AT ($22,045) features sport alloy pedals, rain-sensing wipers and LED taillights. Finally, the luxurious EX Tech model ($23,745) provides you with autonomous emergency braking, leather seats and integrated navigation.

Fun fact, the Rio was awarded the “Highest Ranked Small Car in Initial Quality and Dependability in the U.S.” and the spacious and comfortable cabin speaks to that. The roomy seats and a large cargo area make the Rio a practical choice for families and those looking for a bit more extra space in their vehicle.

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2019 Honda Fit Manual

MSRP $15,490

Here’s the deal – the Honda Fit is ready to take on the competition. Sporting the most upscale interior in its class, the Fit offers more advanced tech and safety features than many of its rivals.

The standard DX model comes equipped with a 1.5L DOHC 4-cylinder engine and a 6-speed manual transmission. Other trim highlights include:

130 Horsepower
8.1L/100km in the City
6.6L/100km on the Highway
60/40 split-folding rear bench seat
Remote entry system with a security system
HandsFreeLink bilingual Bluetooth
5” Colour LCD Screen
160-watt AM/FM audio system
Multi-angle rearview camera

Another manual option is the LX trim, costing $18,890 and adding Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, heated front seats and steering-wheel-mounted cruise controls to your configuration. Jumping to the automatic LX-Honda Sensing trim ($20,190) comes with Honda Sensing technologies, Wi-Fi tethering and lowers your fuel consumption to 7.0/5.9 (city/hwy). Choosing the manual Sport trim ($19,890) will upgrade you to 16” alloy, all-black wheels with a leather-wrapped interior and integrated fog-lights. The automatic Sport-Honda Sensing trim gives you all that plus Honda sensing technologies ($21,190).

The luxurious EX models allow you to extend your front row visors and gives you access to one-touch power moonroof with tilt features, proximity key entry system with pushbutton start and Honda Lanewatch blind-spot display. Finally, the EX-L Navi ($24,290) upgrades your seats to leather-trimmed seating surfaces, adds an air-filtration system to your automatic climate controls, integrated LED’s into your turn indicators and you guessed it, gets you a navigation system!

This award-winning subcompact (Kelly Blue Book 2017) is a practical and reliable choice for families of four. The Fit offers an upscale and spacious interior, versatile and roomy cargo space, an impressive amount of safety features, excellent fuel economy and it’s all bundled up into one great price!

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2019 Toyota Yaris Hatchback Manual

MSRP $15,690

Truthfully, the 2019 Toyota Yaris is not much of a looker, but Toyota’s quality, dependability and reliability are hard to overlook. Focused on safety, this city slicker comes with an abundance of standard safety and technology features.

The standard 3 Door CE 5M model comes equipped with a 1.5L DOHC 5-cylinder engine and a 6-speed manual transmission. Other trim highlights include:

106 Horsepower
7.8L/100km in the City
6.5L/100km on the Highway
60/40 split-folding rear bench seat
Bluetooth capability
Heated front seats
6.1” Display
Power windows and locks
Pre-collision system
Lane departure alert
Auto high beams
Rear vision camera

If this doesn’t impress you, the 3 door Yaris also comes as an automatic CE 4A model but will jump the price up to $16,685. If you’re looking for 5 doors and keyless entry, the manual LE 5M ($17,015) or automatic LE 4A ($18,015) may do the trick. For a more luxurious feel, both the manual SE 5m ($18,665) and automatic SE 4A ($19,665) come equipped with a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, heated front sports seats and give you a choice of 2-tone exterior paint.

The city-inspired Yaris can conquer your commute and have fun doing it. The quality interior, excellent fuel economy, nimble handling and plenty of standard features make this subcompact hard to resist. If you’re looking for an affordable daily commuting vehicle, the Yaris was made for you.

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2019 Nissan Sentra Manual

MSRP $16,598

Look – there’s no easy way to say this, but Nissan has taken over the cheap car market in Canada. Knocking off the redesigned Mazda 3, the Sentra is a great economical option for first-time car buyers, students, business professionals and even families looking to save some money.

The standard S model comes equipped with a 1.8L DOHC 4-cylinder engine and a 6-speed manual transmission. Other standard features include:

130 Horsepower
8.8L/100km in the City
6.6L/100km on the Highway
60/40 split-folding rear bench seat
Nissan voice recognition
Hands-free text messaging assistant
Bluetooth capability
Rear vision camera

The automatic SV trim ($20,958) adds heated front seats, Apple Carplay, Android Auto and push-button start. Surprisingly, there are only two trims available for this model, not giving many variations for those looking for a sportier feel or more tech-centric features.

The Sentra remains a comfortable and cheap ride that gets the job done. The spacious back seats, user-friendly control layout and basic tech features give you all you need and at a fair price point too.

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2019 Ford Fiesta Manual

MSRP: $16,763

Last but certainly not least, is the stylish Ford Fiesta. The Fiesta gets personal, inside and out, offering multiple dynamic and vibrant exterior colours and plenty of interior design features to customize to your liking.

The standard S Sedan model comes equipped with a 1.6L Ti-VCT 4-cylinder engine and a 5-speed manual transmission. Other standard features include:

120 Horsepower
8.6L/100km in the City
6.4L/100km on the Highway
60/40 split-folding rear bench seat
Manual air conditioning
AM/FM Stereo with CD/MP3 Capability
Rear vision camera

The automatic SE Sedan and SE Hatch will jump up the cost to $18,924 but will give you access to AppLink with Waze, cruise control and automatic temperature controls. If you’re looking for something a bit sportier, the ST hatch comes with a 1.6L Ecoboost engine, raving up the horsepower to 197 and the price to $26,458. The ST also offers a push-button start, fog lights, unique ST logo and multiple body-colour mouldings to the exterior.

For those looking to personalize, the Fiesta comes in 10 exterior colours, including Outrageous Green Metallic, Hot Pepper Red and Lightning Blue. The interior also offers 10 different materials and colour combinations for a driving experience that’s uniquely yours.

If you’re in the market for an affordable and fun small car, the Fiesta is a great choice. Gaining a following with its lively driving performance and user-friendly technology, the Fiesta won a Kelley Blue Book award for Fair Purchase Price and Low Maintenance Cost in 2017.

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Other fan favourites that didn’t get a spot were the Toyota Corolla ($16,790), Honda Civic ($17,790) and Mazda Mazda3 ($18,000). All three are a great choice for Canadians needing a car but looking to save.

To compare to last year’s models, make sure to check out our blog here.

No matter what your choice, we’d be happy to help! At Chep Cars Canada we believe that every Canadian deserves a car, no matter their credit situation. With hundreds of dealerships and thousands of vehicle options, we can help you find a deal in your area and get you approved too! Give us a call toll-free at 1-855-214-3552 or apply here to find a reliable car for a price you can afford!

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