When buying a car, there’s often a temptation to opt for the higher-end trims, laden with extra features like massaging seats, large wheels, and expansive sunroofs. However, it’s essential to remember that the base trims of many vehicles offer excellent value for money. Base models today come with a surprising range of features that make them a fantastic choice, without the need to break the bank. Whether you’re on a budget, prefer simplicity, or just want to be a smart shopper, base trims deliver a lot more than you might expect.
In this list, we’ll highlight 5 of the best base trim vehicles for 2025 that deliver impressive features, solid build quality, and great value, all without the extra luxury features you may not actually need.
1. 2025 Genesis GV70 2.5T AWD
Price: $47,985
The 2025 Genesis GV70 is a premium luxury SUV that offers substantial value at its base trim. In the 2.5T AWD version, the GV70 comes equipped with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing a robust 300 horsepower. Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, this vehicle delivers a seamless, dynamic driving experience.
In terms of exterior design, the GV70 stands out with its sophisticated and striking features: two-line parallel headlights, eye-catching taillights, a stylish grille, and modern wheel designs. The interior is just as impressive, featuring a combination of high-end materials and advanced technology to ensure maximum comfort and connectivity.
As for the base model, the GV70 is far from stripped down. Despite being the entry-level trim, it includes a wide range of features like luxury seating, advanced driver-assistance systems, and a sleek, ergonomic cabin design. It offers great value in the luxury SUV segment, proving that you don’t have to splurge on a high-end trim to enjoy luxury.
2. 2026Honda Civic LX
Price: $24,595
The 2025 Honda Civic LX is an absolute benchmark in the compact sedan segment. The base trim continues to uphold the Civic’s longstanding tradition of offering value, comfort, and dependability in a well-rounded package. Powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 150 horsepower, the Civic LX provides smooth acceleration and decent fuel efficiency, paired with a CVT (continuously variable transmission) for a comfortable ride.
Externally, the Civic has evolved into a sleek, modern design that’s both attractive and practical. The cabin, on the other hand, is ergonomic, showcasing excellent physical controls and a straightforward layout. The LX trim comes standard with 16-inch alloy wheels, full LED headlights, automatic climate control, and a 7-inch color touchscreen that integrates Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
But the standout feature is Honda Sensing, the brand’s suite of safety features that includes automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning with lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. All of these elements make the Civic LX an incredibly strong value proposition, providing advanced safety features at an affordable price. It’s the perfect choice for those who want a compact car without sacrificing safety or technology.
3. 2025 Toyota Corolla SE
Price: $26,000 (estimate)
The 2025 Toyota Corolla SE continues Toyota’s legacy of offering a reliable and efficient compact sedan. The SE trim takes the base Corolla’s solid foundation and adds a more sporty design and some extra performance. Powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, the Corolla SE offers 169 horsepower, which strikes a balance between practicality and a fun-to-drive character.
In terms of features, the Corolla SE comes equipped with 18-inch alloy wheels, a sporty exterior appearance, and an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration. Toyota has also added Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 to the Corolla SE, including features like lane departure alert, pre-collision system, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. These features make it an incredibly safe, well-rounded option for daily driving.
If you’re looking for an entry-level car with a little more performance, technology, and safety features, the Toyota Corolla SE delivers a great package at a reasonable price.
4. 2025 Hyundai Sonata SE
Price: $25,000 (estimate)
The 2025 Hyundai Sonata SE remains one of the best values in the midsize sedan category. Offering a sleek design and a solid list of standard features, the Sonata SE is a great option for those who need a larger sedan without the premium price tag. Powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 191 horsepower, the Sonata offers a smooth, fuel-efficient ride with excellent handling.
The SE trim comes equipped with a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and an 8-speaker sound system. Hyundai’s SmartSense safety suite comes standard as well, offering features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist.
The Sonata SE is one of the best base trims in the midsize sedan category, offering a comfortable and well-equipped interior, solid performance, and excellent safety features at a competitive price point.
5. 2025 Mazda CX-5 Sport
Price: $27,000 (estimate)
Mazda has long been known for producing vehicles that blend luxury, performance, and value. The 2025 Mazda CX-5 Sport is a prime example of this. As the base trim in Mazda’s compact crossover lineup, the CX-5 Sport offers a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 187 horsepower, delivering a more engaging driving experience than many other base trims in the segment.
In terms of features, the CX-5 Sport comes equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Mazda also includes a suite of safety features in the base trim, including forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The CX-5 Sport is one of the few compact crossovers that offers a truly enjoyable driving experience without compromising on practicality or comfort.
The Mazda CX-5 Sport stands out with its premium interior design and fun-to-drive nature, making it one of the best base trim compact SUVs available.
Conclusion: Base Trims Deliver Value Without Compromise
As you can see, base trims in 2025 offer an impressive array of features, performance, and safety at a price that won’t break the bank. Whether you’re looking for a compact sedan, midsize sedan, or compact SUV, these base trims provide an excellent balance of value and functionality. The days of base models being “barebones” are over, and these vehicles prove that you can get a lot without having to pay for unnecessary features. So, next time you’re in the market for a new car, don’t overlook the base trim – it might just be the best option for you!
