Electric Cars

For September 2025, Toyota is presenting a compelling lease offer for its Corolla Hatchback, making this well-regarded vehicle an exceptionally accessible choice for those prioritizing economical transportation. The deal features a monthly payment of $199 with an initial payment of $3,999, structured over a 36-month period. This arrangement permits 10,000 miles annually and includes ToyotaCare's scheduled maintenance for two years, enhancing its value proposition. Although this offer mirrors the previous month's terms with a slight adjustment in mileage allowance, it remains a strong contender in the market for individuals seeking a practical and cost-effective vehicle. Potential lessees should note that additional taxes, fees, and charges are not included and may vary based on location and specific dealer negotiations.

The Toyota Corolla Hatchback distinguishes itself by merging the renowned reliability and efficiency of the Corolla sedan with enhanced versatility and a more dynamic design. Its cargo capacity is notably larger than the sedan variant, offering 18 cubic feet compared to the sedan’s 13 cubic feet, which provides valuable extra space for various needs. Fuel efficiency is another significant advantage, with an impressive EPA rating of 42 mpg on the highway, contributing to lower operational costs over time.

Under the hood, the Corolla Hatchback is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 169 horsepower. While it doesn't aim for the high-performance segment occupied by models like the GR Corolla, its lightweight construction and agile handling ensure an engaging and enjoyable driving experience for daily commutes and urban exploration. Toyota also equips the Corolla Hatchback with a comprehensive array of standard features, defying its sub-$25,000 price point.

These standard amenities include advanced LED headlights, seamless wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, radar cruise control, and a full suite of active safety technologies. Such features contribute to a premium feel without the associated premium cost, solidifying its position as an outstanding value in the compact car category.

Prospective lessees considering a $0 down payment option might estimate a monthly cost around $310 by distributing the initial $3,999 payment across the 36-month lease term. It is crucial to remember that this is an estimate, and actual payments will fluctuate based on local taxes, fees, and other variable charges. Interested buyers are encouraged to consult Toyota’s official website for current deals and incentives specific to their region.

Industry benchmarks often suggest that an ideal lease payment should be approximately 1% of the vehicle's Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP). The 2025 Corolla Hatchback's lease deal closely aligns with this guideline, confirming its competitive pricing. Even when accounting for additional costs such as taxes, fees, and potential dealer negotiations, the Corolla Hatchback stands out as one of Toyota's most compelling short-term leasing opportunities this month. While there are sportier or more visually striking alternatives available, few can rival the Corolla Hatchback's exceptional combination of affordability and practical utility.

In an automotive landscape where new car prices frequently escalate, Mazda stands out by maintaining a surprisingly affordable lineup for its 2026 models. This commitment to value is evident across its range, with several popular vehicles showcasing competitive pricing strategies. Despite facing industry-wide challenges such as tariffs and elevated supplier expenses, Mazda has managed to keep price increases minimal for most of its offerings and, notably, has even reduced the starting cost for one of its top-selling SUVs. This approach allows Mazda to continue catering to a broad spectrum of buyers, from those seeking entry-level sedans to those in the market for versatile SUVs, all while enhancing various models with new features and trims.

The company's strategic pricing, particularly the unexpected decrease for the CX-50, highlights its effort to offer compelling options without compromising on features or quality. Alongside these adjustments, Mazda is also preparing a significant refresh for its best-selling CX-5, details of which are eagerly anticipated. The introduction of new editions and enhanced standard features across the Mazda3, CX-30, and CX-90 further solidifies the brand's dedication to delivering modern vehicles that combine driving enjoyment with practical value, ensuring its continued relevance and appeal in a competitive market.

Value-Driven Updates Across Mazda's 2026 Sedans and Compact SUVs

Mazda is setting a benchmark in the automotive industry by offering its 2026 models at surprisingly accessible prices, contrasting with the general trend of increasing vehicle costs. The Mazda3 sedan, for instance, begins at a highly competitive price point below $26,000, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers. This model retains its appeal with a standard eight-speaker Harmonic Acoustics sound system, with an optional Bose upgrade available, and continues to offer both sedan and hatchback configurations, including a manual transmission option for the S Premium hatchback. These choices, along with standard front-wheel drive and available all-wheel drive, ensure that the Mazda3 caters to diverse driving preferences without a significant price hike.

Similarly, the 2026 Mazda CX-30, while seeing a modest price increase, introduces a new 'Aire Edition' trim, which adds several aesthetic and feature enhancements such as gloss black badging, 18-inch black metallic alloy wheels, and black roof rails. This subcompact SUV also benefits from an optional larger 10.25-inch center display, enhancing its interior appeal and functionality. With its range-topping Turbo Premium Plus variant offering up to 250 horsepower, the CX-30 maintains its position as a versatile and well-equipped option in its segment. These strategic updates and pricing considerations underscore Mazda's dedication to delivering compelling value within its compact and subcompact offerings for the upcoming model year.

Strategic Pricing and Enhanced Features for Mazda's 2026 Mid-Size SUVs

Mazda's larger SUV offerings, the CX-50 and CX-90, also reflect the brand's commitment to competitive pricing and continuous improvement for the 2026 model year. In a notable move, the Mazda CX-50's entry-level price has been reduced by $600, defying market expectations and making it an even more appealing choice in the mid-size SUV segment. This model also expands its appeal with the introduction of a Meridian Edition trim for its 2.5-liter S powertrain, alongside new black badges on select trims and an elegant all-white interior option. Despite a slight increase for the CX-50 hybrid variant, these enhancements and the base price reduction demonstrate Mazda's agility in responding to consumer demands and market dynamics.

The 2026 Mazda CX-90, a relatively new addition to the lineup, receives subtle yet meaningful updates that enhance its premium appeal without drastically increasing its starting price. A Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) version continues to be available, offering an eco-conscious option for buyers. Furthermore, the introduction of a 3.3 Turbo S Premium Sport trim, featuring sophisticated dark contrast stitching, adds a new level of luxury. All CX-90 models now integrate Alexa for hands-free commands, and the color palette has been expanded to include Polymetal Gray Metallic, providing more customization options. Powered by a standard 3.3-liter turbocharged inline-six engine, the CX-90 aims to deliver robust performance and refined comfort, solidifying Mazda's commitment to offering a blend of luxury, technology, and value in its larger SUV segment for 2026.