Underrated new cars…..So here’s the thing—I almost accidentally bought a car.
It started because my cousin took 4 hours to get ready for brunch (I wish I was exaggerating), and I ended up killing time at the nearby dealership, sipping on the world’s worst vending machine coffee and looking at cars I had zero business looking at.
Anyway, I test drove a car I’d never even heard of. Not because I was planning to buy it, but because the salesman looked really bored and I felt bad. Plot twist: It was amazing. Like, WHY is no one talking about this car??
That led me down the rabbit hole—yes, the one paved in comparison videos and Reddit threads titled things like “Why doesn’t anyone buy this??” Turns out, there are a lot of underrated new cars that just never get the spotlight.
So here I am, your unqualified-but-enthusiastic internet car friend, sharing some hidden gems of the 2025 car world.
What Makes a Car “Underrated” Anyway?
Good question, imaginary reader-friend.
For me, it’s a car that should be a hit—great features, solid build, awesome value—but just flies under the radar. Maybe the brand doesn’t have the flash or doesn’t have a TikTok-famous CEO. Maybe it’s just quietly doing its thing while everyone’s distracted by the flashy stuff.
You ever fall in love with the opening act at a concert and totally forget who the headliner was? Yeah. Like that.
1. Mazda3 Hatchback
I’m sorry, but why aren’t more people obsessed with this car?
It’s sleek and sporty. It’s got that luxury-lite vibe without the price tag.
And the interior? Honestly? Nicer than some entry-level Audis I’ve sat in. Soft-touch everything. Minimalist, in a good way.
Plus, it drives like it actually enjoys corners. It’s like the car equivalent of that friend who always finds the best tacos and somehow never spills salsa on their shirt.
Underrated-o-meter: 9/10
2. Hyundai Elantra N
Listen—I know Elantras aren’t exactly poster material. But this isn’t just an Elantra.
This thing is a riot. Turbocharged. Six-speed manual (yup, those still exist). Exhaust that literally crackles. It’s a sports car that accidentally got dressed as a commuter sedan.
And the price? You’re looking at performance numbers that rival German cars double the cost. I took one around the block and honestly, I was grinning like a raccoon in a candy store.
Underrated-o-meter: 10/10 if you like driving
3. Chevy Malibu (Yes, really)
Hear me out. The Malibu’s been around forever. People treat it like rental car wallpaper. But the 2025 refresh? Not bad.
Spacious, comfy, and surprisingly refined. You’re not gonna win drag races—but if your daily commute involves sipping coffee and listening to murder podcasts, this car is weirdly perfect.
And since no one’s fighting over it, you can negotiate the price hard. Like, Costco-sample hard.
Underrated-o-meter: 7.5/10 comfort queen
4. Kia K5
I swear Kia is out here doing the work and getting none of the credit. The K5 looks way more expensive than it is. Seriously, from certain angles? You’d think it was a $50k luxury sedan.
Drives smooth. Interior is classy. Touchscreen that doesn’t make you want to punch it. Plus it’s got this kind of quiet swagger—like the kid in school who doesn’t talk much but always aces tests.
Underrated-o-meter: 8.5/10
5. Subaru Legacy
It’s not flashy. It’s not fast. But it’s the car equivalent of a Labrador.
Reliable. Safe. Loves snow. And the standard all-wheel-drive? That’s rare in sedans these days.
It’s a vibe. One for the hikers, dog moms, and anyone who secretly loves a good road trip playlist.
Underrated-o-meter: 8/10 wholesome af
6. Volkswagen Taos
Tiny SUV that punches above its weight class.
Great tech, decent cargo space, and it looks kinda cute in a non-try-hard way. It’s like your friend’s younger sibling who suddenly got cool and started wearing thrifted flannel.
Also: It fits in parking spots my old CR-V would absolutely fail at.
Underrated-o-meter: 7.8/10 city cruiser
7. Nissan Versa
This car has zero business being this good for the price.
Like, it has Apple CarPlay. And automatic emergency braking. For under $20k.
No, it won’t make your heart race. But it will make your wallet very happy. And if you’re teaching a teenager to drive? This is basically a modern tank with cupholders.
Underrated-o-meter: 9/10 budget magic
Real Talk: Why These Cars Don’t Get the Hype
Marketing is wild, man.
You throw a celeb in a commercial and suddenly everyone wants the car—even if the ride quality’s trash and the touchscreen lags like it’s using dial-up.
Meanwhile, these sleeper hits just… exist. Waiting. Hoping someone will notice them sitting quietly on the lot with their dignity and solid MPG.
It’s not fair. But that’s why you’ve got me. And my aggressively over-researched Google tabs.
My Favorite Test Drive I Never Meant to Take
So remember that random test drive I mentioned?
It was the Mazda3. Red. Slightly dusty. Hadn’t been washed in like, three weeks. But when I took it around the block? Instant connection.
Like when you meet a dog and it just knows you’re gonna be besties.
Did I buy it? No. (Long story—my old car is still alive and VERY salty about being replaced.)
But it stuck with me. And I tell everyone about it now like it’s a cult I’m recruiting for. https://motorscrazy.com/new-cars-vs-certified-pre-owned/.
Bonus Tips for Car Shoppers with Main Character Energy: Underrated new cars
- Look beyond the big names. Just because it’s not trending doesn’t mean it’s not amazing.
- Test drive the underdogs. You might be shocked what you vibe with.
- Don’t judge a car by the badge. Some of the best driving experiences come from places you’d never expect.
