Automakers love to brag about horsepower, and drivers want to feel power in the pedal. That doesn't mean that every car that's brought to market is a powerful beast. A few cars that were released in the last year or two won't wow anyone with their speed or muscle. They are more practical and offer efficiency and affordability.
While most 2024 and 2025 models leveraged their performance upgrades for marketing, a handful were stuck at the bottom of the horsepower ladder and were unapologetic about their modest output. If your driving obsession isn't power, then you have some solid options to choose from.
Let's look at three models that are considered to be among the least powerful on the market, and explore what they offer instead.
2024 Mitsubishi Mirage
With only 78 horsepower, the 2024 Mirage continues the automaker's streak of producing some of the least powerful cars sold in North America. It never really stood a chance to win any drag races with its 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine.
Here is what it does accomplish: the Mirage offers strong fuel economy, ultra-low ownership costs, and a solid warranty. It's a true budget car for the practical driver. With fewer mechanical complexities, the Mirage has less risk of something going wrong.
This is a true entry-level model during a time when these types of cars are disappearing. The Mirage is a champion of affordability and is an accessible car for new drivers or those shopping on a budget.
2024 Nissan Versa
The 2024 Versa produces 122 horsepower from its 1.6-liter engine, which isn't a lot. While not as underpowered as the Mirage, it still resides near the bottom of the 2024 and 2025 charts. However, this vehicle is notable for its effective use of its limited power.
The Versa has a well-earned reputation for offering value. Despite its sad output, it is highly fuel-efficient, has a roomy interior and intuitive tech, and provides a solid driving experience. Versa is Nissan's entry-level model, but it's still a decent ride at a fair price.
2025 Chevrolet Bolt EV
The Bolt EV has roughly 200 horsepower and is stronger than traditional subcompact gas cars. Still, in today's EV category, 400+ horsepower is the standard, meaning the Bolt can't really measure up when it comes to power and speed.
The Bolt has successfully helped bring electric cars to the masses, and some suggest that its low power is intentionally designed. For the Bolt, Chevy prioritized range, affordability, and practicality. It continues GM's legacy for efficiency and driving dynamics using the automaker's Ultium technology.
The least powerful cars on the market often get headlines for all the wrong reasons. That said, they fulfil roles that most powerful vehicles can't and blend affordability, lasting value, and effective driving to create a market segment that is much needed. While these models lack power, they are not without their purpose. They provide diversity in the ever-evolving and competitive automotive industry, and drivers reap the benefits.
