If there’s anything better than a reliable car, it’s an affordable one. In an era when the average price of a new car hovers around $50,000, and even used cars aren’t cheap, finding a reasonable price is crucial, according to Kelley Blue Book (KBB).
Towards the end of the year, car dealers typically lower prices to encourage people to buy, to make room for the latest models. But which reliable cars are also likely to see price cuts before spring? Here are some possibilities.
Toyota Prius (hybrid)
According to JD Power’s reliability study, Toyota ranks fourth in reliability. Hybrid cars in particular are known to be more reliable than gasoline-only cars.
The 2026 Toyota Prius (hybrid) has a starting MSRP of $28,550, which is already relatively lower than other sedans, according to the manufacturer. But models from previous years may soon see price cuts.
“The Toyota Prius is a time-tested hybrid whose sales are slowing as consumers favor larger crossovers,” said Justin Fischer, automotive analyst and expert at CarEdge.com.
Fischer added that the 2026 Prius will likely see a price cut and new incentives may be available. That could mean lower overall costs for 2025 and earlier models.
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Toyota RAV4
The Toyota Rav4 lives up to the manufacturer’s overall reliability. Even better, according to Toyota, the 2026 Rav4 is priced reasonably, with a starting MSRP of just $31,900. That’s $2,100 less than the 2025 model.
But as new models are launched, the price may come down.
“The RAV4 is widely regarded as the most reliable small crossover and sells quickly, so it receives few notable incentives,” Fischer said. “That will change in early 2026 as new models become available.”
HondaCR-V
Honda ranked slightly above average in JD Power’s reliability study. RepairPal gave the CR-V a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, ranking it as the second-best compact SUV out of 26 stars.
According to Honda, the 2026 Honda CR-V will have a starting MSRP of $30,920. That’s down slightly from the 2025 model’s MSRP of $30,100.
But in this case, competition needs to be considered. Fischer believes the latest Toyota Rav4 will actually bring a discount to the CR-V as Honda strives to compete.
“Without a major update in sight, the highly reliable CR-V will be a staple of discounts and circulation in 2026,” Fischer said. “The new RAV4 may get everyone’s attention, but CR-V buyers will save even more.”
Toyota 4Runner
Toyota makes the list again. But this time it’s the 4Runner, a full-size SUV with an MSRP of $41,570 (2026).
“4Runners are very popular because owners keep them, and rumor has it that if you want a vehicle that’s less likely to give you problems, you should buy a 4Runner,” said Melanie Musson, auto industry expert at AutoInsurance.org.
KBB reports that the 2025 4Runner will have a starting MSRP of $42,220. This is not a significant difference at the moment, but prices may drop again in the coming months. Musson also noted that there are no major updates between models, so the 2025 model may end up saving you more money.
Toyota Camry (Hybrid)
Hybrids and electric vehicles (EVs) typically have higher inventory levels, Muson said. Because of this, price reductions are not uncommon.
That includes the 2026 Toyota Camry Hybrid, which has a base price of $29,000, according to Toyota. That’s only $300 more than the 2025 model.
Some EVs may decline
Data from S&P Global shows that inventory levels of electric vehicles are rising, increasing by 14% through September. This is largely due to the expiration of federal tax credits and demand starting to decline.
Still, some automotive experts believe prices for reliable vehicles are unlikely to drop significantly next year.
“Reliability and resale value often go hand in hand. A big reason a vehicle like the Toyota Tacoma, for example, has a best-in-class resale value is its reputation for reliability,” said KBB Senior Editor Matt Degen. “More broadly, we don’t expect prices to fall significantly over the coming months, but instead expect the average price of a car to continue to rise.”
But there are always exceptions, like those electric cars.
“Resale value remains a challenge for electric vehicles, but if electric vehicles can meet the needs of both new and used car buyers, it will be good for them,” Deegan said. “and [tax credit] Now, automakers are responding by slashing prices on new electric vehicles, including cars like the popular Hyundai Ioniq 5, Toyota bZ and Subaru Solterra. These and other models have significant price cuts for the 2026 model year. “
Consider extended warranties, fuel savings, reliability ratings and other possible incentives or price changes through 2026. You might find a good deal on something you like.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 5 Reliable Cars to Get Big Price Cuts by Spring 2026