AfFORDable? Every 2024 Ford UNDER $40K!

Intro

The prices for new vehicles have been decreasing slightly as of late. That is great news for consumers. The bad news is that buying a new vehicle remains an expensive proposition. Ford is not a luxury brand; however, it is quite possible to spec a new Ford truck to well over $100,000. And even more modest, mid-grade models can easily cost upwards of $60,000. At those prices, it makes sense for many consumers to shop for pre-owned vehicles. But what if you simply can’t live without that new car smell, yet you are on a more modest budget? Well, Ford does offer some nice options that you can bring home for $40,000 or less.

We looked at the 2024 lineup of Ford vehicles, and found eight choices that you can park in your driveway for $40,000. A couple of things to note. First, these are 2024 models. Ford raised their prices for some 2025 models, and that means some of the following choices are no longer under the $40K budget if you attempt to build them on the configurator. You will have to find 2024 models on the lot. Also, we highlight the model builds that are at the very top of the budget. Some vehicles have choices that are less expensive than what we list. So, any grades below our builds you could also bring home within budget and potentially save even more money. And finally, all build prices include destination charges.

1. Maverick Lariat Tremor ($40,050)

Every 2024 Maverick will come in under a $40K budget in 2024. But this is the most loaded model in our entire list. You get the top Maverick trim level with the top package. Technically this build crosses the $40K threshold but it's only by 50 bucks. If you check the couch cushions and old jacket pockets you can probably find that $50 so we included it here. This is not the biggest or most powerful machine on this list. But it is loaded with equipment, looks great, and offers all the truck that most people really need. 

2. Ranger XLT 4x2 with Advanced Towing Package Plus Technology Package ($39,560)

If you want a truck a little bit bigger than the Maverick, you can get into a Ranger for less than our $40K budget. And you don’t need to settle for a stripped out, no option example either. You can go with an XLT 4x2 complete with the Advanced Towing Package plus the Technology Package. You will be able to tow 7,500 pounds. But you will also get some advanced technology features such as Pro Trailer Backup Assist, 360-degree camera, adaptive cruise control, and front parking sensors. This is a very nice truck for the money.  

3. F-150 Regular Cab 4x2 5.0L ($38,960)

If you just can’t live with anything besides an F-150, there is good news. You can get one for less than $40,000 and you can even get it with a V8 engine. The model you want is the F-150 Regular Cab 4x2. By default that truck comes with the Coyote V8. And at $38,960 you could even add an option or two. We would probably go with the spray-in bedliner for $595. You then have a capable, and sporty half-ton truck for considerably less than what most people pay for an average new vehicle.

4. Mustang EcoBoost Premium Nite Pony Package ($39,790)

This is one of those models that Ford increased the price on for the 2025 model year. So, you are going to have to search for one of these. But, if you can find it, you are getting a stylish and sporty car with the legendary Mustang name for less than $40K. Yes, this one will have the EcoBoost engine, but with 315 horsepower it still offers plenty of poke. And you can step up to the Premium model with features such as remote start, ambient lighting, wireless charging, 13.2-inch touchscreen display, and heated and cooled seats. The Nite Pony Package blacks out the wheels, badges, mirror caps, roof, headlights, and rear spoiler for a more menacing look.

5. Explorer ($38,455)

The redesigned 2025 Ford Explorer is a great SUV (full review HERE). However, it is also considerably more expensive than the 2024 model. So, to stay under budget you will need to find a zero (or very lightly) optioned 2024 model. The good news is that Ford is offering some incentives on the 2024 models such as zero percent interest and no payments for 90 days. And it is not like the 2024 model was subpar by any means. The Explorer is the best-selling SUV in America for a reason. Put one of these in your driveway and you will have a vehicle that can take you, your family, and all your gear on plenty of adventures. All for a reasonable amount of money.

6. Bronco Sport Badlands ($39,985)

You can get any Bronco Sport model that you want for less than $40,000. But if you want to spend every last penny of that budget you can get the top trim Badlands version. You won’t be able to add any options, but you are already getting a vehicle stuffed with features. You will enjoy the Terrain Management System with seven G.O.A.T. modes, front tow hooks, Ford Trail Control, and more. It might not have the cachet and size of the full-size Bronco, but the Bronco Sport Badlands will get you through 95 percent of the same trails for a lot less money.

7. Edge SE ($39,960)

Maybe you don’t need an off-roader, a pickup truck, or a large SUV. Perhaps you just need a sensible all-wheel drive crossover. In that case, the Edge SE might be the perfect fit. With a price that comes within a whisker of our budget, you won’t be adding any options. But even the SE model comes fairly well-equipped with items such as BLIS with cross-traffic alert, lane-keeping system, 18-inch aluminum wheels, and SYNC 4A with enhanced voice recognition.

8. Escape ST-Line Elite ($39,455)

If you have your heart set on a new Ford Escape you can fit any trim you want, except for the plug-in hybrid, under the $40K budget. And you may even be able to get the plug-in hybrid under budget thanks to the potential of $3,750 in tax credits. The top-of-the-line non-hybrid is the ST-Line Elite and you can get one of those if you avoid the option list. Of course, being the ST-Line Elite, it is already loaded with features such as a 360-dgree camera, 13.2-inch LCD capacitive touchscreen, Ford Co-Pilot 360 Assist 2.0, and rain-sensing wipers. This vehicle offers a lot of features for the money and will make you feel like you are driving in a much more expensive vehicle.  

Images: Ford