Often the best used versions of popular models such as the Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-3, Volkswagen Golf GTI and Honda Jazz also happen to be the cheapest.
And while there is a catch, it's also precisely what makes them a catch: their manual gearboxes.
Yep. Going stick is the trick. Like listening to analogue music, shopping in person instead of online and meeting in person rather than via an app, shifting gears yourself can often be so much more rewarding.
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Manuals are generally cheaper (sometimes by upwards of 20 per cent), usually use less fuel, are always more fun, avoid costly transmission repairs and feel cooler than their auto counterparts, so what's not to love?
Here are our favourite budget manual bargains.
Sub-$5K quality cheapies
2002-2007 Mazda DY 2
Mazda's fourth-generation supermini shared much with the Ford Fiesta of the day, but boasted a unique, dorky/cool tall-boy body offering mini-wagon practicality, complete with a deep tailgate and a sliding/tumbling rear bench. A perky 1.5-litre engine/five-speed manual combo provides lively performance, as well as long-lasting durability. Knockabout fun for peanuts.
2005-2011 Ford LS-LV Focus
The second-gen Focus shared a sophisticated platform and robust 2.0L engine with the Mazda 3. But the Ford's connected steering and athletic handling are joyous. The pre-Powershift four-speed auto is fine, but the five-speed manual ties everything together with precision and flair. Ford should be proud of this German masterpiece.
Circa-$8K runabouts
2008-2014 Honda GE Jazz
Experts the world over shortlist the second-gen Jazz (or Fit), for its over-engineered body, bulletproof powertrain (including the class-rarity five-speed auto), brilliant packaging, high driving enjoyment and low running cost. Properly maintained, these should last longer than most. Pretty much the perfect cheap car, then, the five-speed manual, with its slick, short-throw shift, is the better option, as it's easy and fun. And about 30 per cent less than the auto.
2008-2013 Mazda BL 3
Like its Focus cousin, Mazda 3's advanced multi-link rear suspension provides safe, reassuring control, but prioritises refinement and ease, mixing Japanese build quality, practicality and reliability. At this price point, you'll find a lower-mileage manual, complete with a sweet six-speed gearbox, than the default five-speed auto, providing plenty of interactivity. A terrific all-rounder.
Circa-$12K modern classics
2014-2019 Mazda BM 3
For the third-gen 3s, Mazda was free of Ford so developed its vaunted "SkyActiv" powertrains and chassis with dramatically updated tech, including weight-saving efficiency. That they have proven so dependable is a testimony to their quality engineering, while the engines with their six-speed transmissions offer BMW-levels of sophistication without the cost pain.
2017-2023 Suzuki AZ Swift
Adopting in all-new platform, the sixth-gen Suzuki supermini continues its predecessors' spunky styling and agile handling, in a larger, roomier and more-refined package. But while the switch to a continuously variable transmission (CVT) takes the fizz out of the auto, the manual elevates the sportiness the series has renowned for.
Sub-$20K hot crossover fun
2015-2022 Mazda DK CX-3
Still a current model, the CX-3 manual is that rare thing - a racy, lightweight SUV that becomes more impressive the harder you drive it. Stuffing a 2.0L engine into a city-sized crossover makes it a punchy performer, as well as a frugal and effortless to punt around.
2014-2021 Nissan J11 Qashqai
The CVTs in Nissans are notoriously unreliable, but the six-speed manual turns this British-built compact SUV into a durable, comfortable and relaxed family car that's also a pleasure to drive. Simple yet more capable than the badge may have you believe.
Sub-$30K modern medium SUVs
2017-2022 Mazda CX-5
It needs a few revs under its belt, but once the tacho is swinging, the CX-5 manual turns into a rorty, racy SUV that corners and handles like its wearing Alfa Romeo badges. Slick and sophisticated, Mazda's evergreen mid-sizer shines when it's really driven to be enjoyed. A dying breed, sadly.
2019-2022 Toyota RAV4
The cheapest way into a newer-shape RAV4 is buying a rare manual version. Though front-drive and base-model only, the GX 2WD combines the looks, packaging, quality and practicality of Australia's favourite new SUV, with a surprisingly engaging and enjoyable powertrain. It's a shame Toyota dropped the manual.
Sub-$25K hot hatch icons
2013-2020 Volkswagen Mk7 Golf GTI
Developed during the peak-VW era, the seventh-gen Golf GTI has different sides, from a luxury grand tourer with a slick dual-clutch transmission, to a lower-line manual with cloth trim aimed at purists. The latter allows keen drivers to take advantage of its immersive drivetrain and lighter, nimbler dynamics.
2016-2020 Peugeot T9 308 GTi 270
Perhaps the greatest modern hot hatch this side of the current Honda Civic Type R, the manual-only 308 GTi 270 captures the essence of the breed better than most, thanks to a lightweight, playful chassis, torquey turbo engine and ultra-tactile steering and superbly supple ride. A true 205 GTi for grown-ups, at a fun-sized price.