Nowadays, finding a brand-new car for under $20,000 in the United States is a rare feat. However, venture beyond US borders, particularly to China, and you’ll discover a world where the cheapest cars still boast incredibly low price tags, sometimes even under $5,000. If curiosity has you piqued, join us as we explore these ultra-affordable vehicles. We’ve scoured manufacturer websites, e-commerce giants like Alibaba, and automotive platforms such as Cardekho to bring you an updated list of 13 of the world’s cheapest new cars you can actually own.
Forget about highway-ready vehicles like the Chevrolet Spark or Nissan Versa; we’re diving into the realm of four-wheeled wonders from brands you might not recognize. These machines, often just a step up from a glorified golf cart, surprisingly mimic the functionality of cars, all while maintaining unbelievably cheap Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices (MSRPs). The internet is buzzing with YouTubers and influencers who’ve acquired these “crate cars” purely out of curiosity, and many have been genuinely surprised by their capabilities, especially considering the rock-bottom prices. Sure, for the same money, you could snag a decent used Honda Civic, but where’s the fun in that when you can potentially customize these budget rides with parts from unexpected sources?
Imagine a world dominated by Alibaba car modification enthusiasts, boosting performance with power tool batteries and tackling off-road trails with hand truck wheels. Perhaps someday, we’ll witness groups of adults cruising to popular spots in their uniquely customized, ultra-cheap vehicles!
13. Bajaj Qute
Starting MSRP: $4,200
Bajaj Qute 1920×1080
The Bajaj Qute, a product of a collaborative design effort between Nissan and Renault, is an incredibly cheap microcar, known as a quadricycle in some regions. Initially intended solely for the Indian market after its debut in 2012, the Bajaj Qute has now expanded its reach to numerous countries, including the United States, Russia, Spain, Finland, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates, among others. Powered by a small 217cc single-cylinder, 4-stroke liquid-cooled engine, the Qute runs on either compressed natural gas (CNG) or gasoline, producing 13.3 horsepower and 14.5 lb-ft of torque. While it’s certainly not a performance vehicle, the Bajaj Qute can comfortably accommodate up to four passengers and achieve a top speed of 40 to 45 mph. In ideal conditions, it’s reported to offer impressive fuel efficiency, ranging from 35 to 43 kilometers per liter, or approximately 80 to 100 miles per gallon.
| Engine | 217 cc 1-cylinder |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 13.3 |
| Torque, lb-ft | 14.5 |
| Curb weight, lbs | 990 |
| Top speed, MPH | 45 |
| Seats | 4 |
12. Hongsheng Tantu
Starting MSRP: $2,800
Tantu
With its front-end styling, you might initially mistake this vehicle for the robust and dependable Toyota Tacoma pickup truck. However, this is the Tantu, an all-electric pickup truck manufactured by Hongsheng. Available through Alibaba, this electric vehicle (EV) comes with an astonishingly low price tag of just $2,800. The Tantu is driven by a 4,000-watt electric motor paired with a 72V 100Ah battery, enabling it to reach a top speed of 31 mph and offering a range of up to 75 miles on a single charge.
Despite its compact size, the Tantu boasts a curb weight of only 1,433 lbs, yet it impressively handles a payload capacity of up to 4,400 lbs. This mini electric pickup truck also features adjustable speed settings, allowing you to select between high, medium, and low speeds using an in-vehicle controller. Adding to the appeal, the Hongsheng Tantu comes with a one-year warranty, covering any manufacturing defects within the first year of ownership.
| Electric motor wattage | 4,000 |
|---|---|
| Battery | 72V, 100Ah |
| Range, miles | 75 |
| Curb weight, lbs | 1,433 |
| Top speed, MPH | 31 |
| Seats | 4 |
11. Hongsheng Pickup
Starting MSRP: $2,500
hongsheng pickup truck cheapest in the world
This golf-cart-based pickup truck might just be convincing enough to fool a young child into thinking it’s a full-fledged pickup! While the product listing mentions “solar,” it doesn’t appear to be a functional feature. However, it does come equipped with a pneumatic lifting hard bed cover, an amenity not typically standard even on larger trucks like the Chevrolet Silverado 1500. For a touch of luxury, optional features include a generator to charge the lead-acid battery and even air conditioning, typically in the form of a fan system integrated into the ceiling.
Inside the Hongsheng Pickup, you’ll find a functional LCD screen and multimedia player. The faux leather upholstery gives a surprisingly realistic impression, and the designers even borrowed a page from Ford’s book with a volume knob-style gear shifter. The battery itself comes with a warranty exceeding 60,000 miles – quite impressive for a vehicle in this price range. That translates to roughly 980 full charge cycles, a feat unlikely to be reached given its top speed of 31 mph. But considering the price point, comparable to a high-end golf cart, you’re getting a remarkable package for your money.
| Electric motor wattage | 2,000 – 3,000 |
|---|---|
| Battery | 60V, 100Ah |
| Range, miles | 75 |
| Curb weight, lbs | 1,433 |
| Top speed, MPH | 31 |
| Seats | 4 |
10. Changli Mini “Solar”
Starting MSRP: $2,090
cheapest car mini inside chang li
Changli stands out as perhaps the most recognized brand on this list, often considered synonymous with the cheapest cars available. They indeed hold the title for the most affordable car featured here, and numerous YouTubers and online personalities have purchased them for novelty and entertainment. However, these initial laughs often turn into thoughtful consideration as they realize the surprising value these tiny cars offer. The Changli Mini, in this particular model, bears a resemblance to a Mini Cooper, despite being nearly two feet shorter in length.
Despite being marketed as “solar,” actual solar charging capability is not confirmed or even readily available. However, don’t dismiss this car just yet! It boasts two reasonably sized and functional screens, including a 9-inch touchscreen. It features a “manual” air conditioner – essentially a fan mounted in the roof – and surprisingly utilizes a lithium battery. A backup camera is included, and Bluetooth connectivity with a microphone for phone calls is reported, assuming accurate translation from the source. Frankly, as we progress down this list, the Changli Mini represents the last of the potentially “luxurious” options you can find at these ultra-low prices.
| Electric motor wattage | 2,000 |
|---|---|
| Battery | |
| Range, miles | |
| Top speed, MPH | 21-28 |
| Seats | 4 |
9. Changli PK-002
Starting MSRP: $2,060
changli-truck-header 3
Even more budget-friendly than the Changli Mini is the Changli pickup truck, famously reviewed by Mikey on YouTube. His video showcases a very cheap car constructed with thin sheet metal and a basic paint job, but it’s fully enclosed and equipped with a hydraulic bed lift! The most affordable alternative with similar features in the US market would be a John Deere Gator, priced at around $12,000, plus additional costs for cabin enclosure accessories and an electronic dump bed.
The Changli PK-002 surprisingly includes touchscreen infotainment and a functional stereo system, along with air conditioning, faux leather seats, off-road lights, and power windows. If we were to consider purchasing any car on this list – and the thought is tempting – this model appears to offer the best value without delving too deeply into long-term reliability concerns. Additional features like a rooftop basket and bed frame further sweeten the deal. If it weren’t for its rear-wheel-drive configuration, it might even be tempting for some light off-roading. While an all-wheel-drive version exists, it naturally comes at a higher price. Interestingly, a significant community of owners has formed around the Changli PK in the US, affectionately nicknamed the “Pak Yak.”
| Electric motor wattage | 1,500 – 3,000 |
|---|---|
| Battery | |
| Range, miles | 60 – 120 |
| Curb weight, lbs | ~1,500 |
| Top speed, MPH | 21-28 |
| Seats | 2 |
8. R&Z SUV
Starting MSRP: $1,750 – $1,990
cheapest car suv ford
This model has seen variations over time, but the core concept remains: you’re likely to receive an “SUV” that closely resembles a Ford F-150 in appearance, or perhaps a Ford Focus-esque vehicle with a spare tire compartment large enough to house all four tires. Regardless of the exact styling, you can expect a four-seater with four doors and roll-down windows! It even features a push-button start system.
For the higher end of the price range at $1,990, it seems a practical metal cargo rack is included on the roof, and you can opt for a “water motor” (likely a mistranslation) available in either 48 or 60 volts. The vehicle boasts independent suspension, rear brakes, and comes standard with “warm air” – potentially a functioning heater. One video showcasing a model styled to resemble a Jeep even demonstrates it navigating down a set of stairs, suggesting it might rival the off-road capabilities of a Ford Raptor, in a very loose comparison.
| Electric motor wattage | 1,200 |
|---|---|
| Battery | 48V, 60V |
| Range, miles | 62 |
| Curb weight, lbs | ~1,000 |
| Top speed, MPH | 25 |
| Seats | 4 |
7. Changli 003
Starting MSRP: $1,988
rally changli 003 awd cheapest car in the world all wheel drive rally
Ah, the Changli 003! While it shares many similarities with other cheap cars on this list, it has one key differentiator, as hinted by the clearly staged picture of it in the snow: it’s all-wheel drive! Note the front grille, which is just a couple of slots shy of resembling a Jeep. Available options include a choice between handlebar or steering wheel controls. Surprisingly, it lacks the cool roof rack or off-road lights often seen on its counterparts.
The all-wheel-drive capability (if it can truly be called that) comes at a slight performance cost. The already modest top speed of 27 mph is reduced to around 21 mph due to the power distribution from the single 1200W motor. The interior is described as clean and modern and appears reasonably comfortable for winter driving. It might even serve as a makeshift snowplow! After all, it does have vents that could potentially be connected to a heater system. However, it’s crucial to remember that most Changli models are not street-legal in the United States.
| Electric motor wattage | 1,200 |
|---|---|
| Battery | |
| Range, miles | 60 |
| Curb weight, lbs | ~1,000 |
| Top speed, MPH | 27 |
| Seats | 4 |
6. QK Pickup
Starting MSRP: $1,859
qk pickup green
The QK Pickup deviates from the electric trend, opting for a more traditional approach with a diesel-powered, single-cylinder, 25-horsepower engine – essentially a lifted lawnmower engine. Surprisingly, it’s equipped with 4-wheel drive and a hydraulic truck bed. Enclosed cabin versions are available, as are dually setups, presumably for enhanced traction and payload capacity. Admittedly, this model stretches the definition of a “car,” but it does offer features like optional side mirrors and the ability to be fully enclosed from the elements. Despite listings claiming automatic transmission, videos suggest a manual stick shift is present.
It’s genuinely remarkable to find a 4WD, fossil fuel-powered vehicle at a price point lower than a month’s earnings at California’s minimum wage! At this stage, it raises the question of whether these listed prices are merely marketing tactics to attract buyers, or if it’s genuinely possible to purchase one for the advertised $1,859 plus shipping from a port in Los Angeles. While no user reviews or videos from within America seem to exist, the possibility remains intriguing.
| Engine | Single-cylinder diesel |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 25 |
| Drive configuration | AWD |
| Pickup bed | Hydraulic |
| Seats | 4 |
5. MH S3
Starting MSRP: $1,811
Ford looknig S3
This is a car that might initially elicit laughter, but then prompt a “what if?” moment. For just 18% of the cost of its Ford-inspired look-alike, you can transport four people on level ground at speeds up to 21 mph, potentially faster if you upgrade from lead-acid to a more powerful battery. For the same $1,811, you get a relatively conventional-looking interior with decent trim, four doors, door handles, power windows, adjustable front seats, a ceiling fan, and a standard rearview mirror.
A barn-style rear door provides minimal storage space unless you remove the back seats. Intriguingly, the faux spare tire compartment actually opens and appears capable of accommodating all four tires. All four wheels are equipped with disc brakes, and you can even spot red-painted calipers. If you’re considering a fun, budget-friendly vehicle for local errands and family trips, the S3 is worth considering. Videos show the S3 carrying three passengers and driving around like a capable, enclosed golf cart.
| Electric motor wattage | ~1,000 – 2,000 |
|---|---|
| Battery | |
| Curb weight, lbs | ~1,000 |
| Top speed, MPH | 21 |
| Seats | 4 |
4. Haibao Qiao Hu
Starting MSRP: $1,669
Quai hu cheapest car four door
From what we can gather from the product listings, the Haibao Qiao Hu excels at providing photo opportunities, especially when exiting the vehicle! Driving performance might be less of a focus. However, it does feature touchscreen infotainment, a feature that might be absent in your current car, and if it is present, it might not be entirely in Chinese. The vehicle includes a backup camera, and beyond a ceiling fan, there aren’t many standout features to mention.
As we descend further down the price scale, available options become increasingly limited. The Haibao Qiao Hu’s top speed is reported to be around 24 mph. However, you can choose from a selection of more stylish colors. Interestingly, they offer customization options for logos and decals, allowing you to personalize your budget ride even before it arrives.
| Electric motor wattage | ~1,000 – 2,000 |
|---|---|
| Battery | 48V-60V |
| Curb weight, lbs | ~1,000 |
| Top speed, MPH | 24 |
| Seats | 4 |
3. Aigle EV Minicar
Starting MSRP: $1,680
Aigle EV 1920×1080
Aigle EV is a Chinese manufacturer specializing in low-speed electric vehicles, including mini cars and pickup trucks. The Aigle EV Minicar utilizes lead-acid batteries to power its electric motor, propelling its 4-passenger frame up to 28 mph with a range of approximately 60 miles. While a single Aigle EV Minicar is listed at $1,680, the price can drop to as low as $1,068 per unit for orders exceeding 30 vehicles – a significant quantity, to say the least.
Specs and Performance
| Electric motor wattage | 1,200 – 2,500 |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Disc |
| Range, miles | ~60 |
| Curb weight, lbs | ~1,000 |
| Top speed, MPH | 28 |
| Seats | 4 |
2. Minghong S1-PRO
Starting MSRP: $1,265
s1-pro cheapest car you can buy and drive own china alibaba
Welcome to the truly budget-conscious end of the spectrum! Apart from the Changli Nemica, which reportedly once dipped to a mere $975 USD, the Minghong S1-PRO represents your current “cheapest ever” option. The S1-PRO boasts “Air Conditioning (Manual)” and technically accommodates three seats, with the driver positioned upfront with handlebar steering. It’s the smallest vehicle on this list, measuring just five and a half feet in length, yet it manages to incorporate some basic necessities beyond just being a plastic and plexiglass box.
Power windows, high/low beam LED lights, disc brakes, and a lithium-ion battery are available as optional upgrades. A digital dashboard displays speed, reported as “less than 21 mph,” but it’s capable of climbing inclines up to 30 degrees, thanks to the electric motor’s torque and the lead-acid battery.
Specs and Performance
| Electric motor wattage | 1,200 – 1,500 |
|---|---|
| Battery | |
| Range, miles | 60 – 120 |
| Curb weight, lbs | ~660 – 700 |
| Top speed, MPH | 21 |
| Seats | 4 |
1. Changli Nemica
Starting MSRP: $1,249 or $975
2021 changli cheapest car in the world facelift new upgrade latest model option
The “or $975” indicates a period when these were priced under $1,000, but prices have since risen, likely due to increased demand fueled by the “Cheapest Car In The World” trend among YouTubers and their audiences. Nevertheless, it retains its title as the cheapest car, and thanks to extensive online coverage, we have more information about the Changli Nemica.
Notably, it remains functional even after a year of regular use, as demonstrated by Jason Torchinsky. In fact, only the inexpensive mirrors and plastic body panels truly begin to show signs of wear. The waterproof claims appear to be accurate, and the cost savings are primarily achieved through features like manual-sliding windows, limited power, and a three-seat configuration. The design, initially covered in stickers, has received a facelift and now offers three solid color options. It can potentially achieve a range of around 60 miles per charge, especially if you assist with acceleration – and that’s even with using the functional Bluetooth stereo. If you’re interested in owning one, you’ll need to negotiate shipping arrangements on Alibaba and then collect your brand-new, cheapest car in the world from a port like Los Angeles!
Specs and Performance
| Electric motor wattage | 800 – 1,200 |
|---|---|
| Battery | |
| Range, miles | 60 – 120 |
| Curb weight, lbs | 712 |
| Top speed, MPH | 18.6 |
| Seats | 4 |
