Buying A Ford Car For Less Than $30,000 Just Got A Lot Harder And This Is Why

Ford used to make a string of affordable cars — the Fiesta, the Focus, and even the EcoSport SUV — with the one thing they all had in common was being sold at affordable prices starting under $25,000. Unfortunately, by 2022, prices inflated for most of Ford's models, with the exception of the Maverick compact pickup truck, which launched at a selling price of $21,490. But hopes fell when the Maverick climbed into the same higher-end territory as its ancestors.

However, while the Ford Maverick used to start under $25,000, in 2025 you'll see a sticker of around $29,840 – and that's before taxes, dealer fees, and shipping. By the time you're done at the register, you're likely past $31,000. As of May 2025, Ford has already implemented yet another price increase on the Maverick — a $1,150 bump – on top of the $3,075 the company already raised the base price on 2025 models, per Jalopnik.

However, it isn't just Ford doing price gymnastics, but rather the whole auto industry. Gone are the days when brands raced to build the cheapest hatchback. Now, the big money is in trucks, crossovers, and even luxury electric rides. Worst of all, these price jumps across all vehicles are only set to get worse thanks to a mix of higher material costs— especially steel, aluminum, and computer chips — and new Trump tariffs that are affecting American car prices. In fact, thanks to these changes, now is not a good time to buy a car.

The reason Ford prices are rising is largely a result of new tariffs on imported parts. In a 2025 report by Anderson Economic Group, Ford vehicles like the Explorer, Bronco Sport, and the Mach-e will have anywhere from a $2,000 to $12,000 price increase due to these additional fees. As tariffs add additional costs for automakers, companies must decide whether to swallow the expense or pass it on to consumers. Either these companies raise retail price or watch their margins vanish. In Ford's case, consumers will end up paying more at the dealership.

For context, the Maverick, like most vehicles produced by Ford, is assembled using globally sourced parts, including hybrid drivetrain components, from overseas suppliers. These materials are now subject to higher tariffs in order to enter the U.S., which in turn raises the cost to assemble the vehicle. Ford warned investors that these levies will slash the brand's 2025 earnings by $1.5 billion, hence the aggressive price adjustments across its lineup — especially on models produced in Mexico.

If Ford sticker shock isn't in your budget, you have alternatives to consider. You can adjust your budget and cut other expenses to accept the higher price tag on a new vehicle or instead choose to slide into a certified pre-owned (CPO) Ford — preferably one still under warranty — to save your wallet. Another route is to shop outside of the brand altogether. The Hyundai Santa Cruz starts at about $28,650, while Toyota's Corolla Cross hangs between $24,135 and $29,660. Both pack modern features without crossing the $30K line, for now anyways.

With that said, don't overlook the CPO market. As new-car prices climb, more buyers are flocking to purchase gently driven models backed by factory warranties, especially since tariffs will hit used-cars less hard than new models. In other words, a CPO vehicle could be your ticket to a nearly-new ride without emptying your savings. Plus, there are plenty of used car options out there for avoiding tariffs. Mid-size trucks like the Nissan Frontier or Honda Ridgeline often slip under big import tariffs, keeping their sticker prices friendlier. Also, don't sleep on Ford's financing deals or even available loyalty discounts, as they can soften the blow of rising costs.