Currently trying to buy a Corolla Hybrid (base). The best out-the-door quote I got so far is $28.5k, the MSRP is $23k. So yes, you are looking at almost $30k for the most basic car.
Other brands surely have cheaper basic options, and although I might not recommend going all the way to a Stellantis/GM car, a Ford/Honda/Mazda might be available for less and still be acceptable for quality.
Ford's business is selling as many F150's as possible. Due to the way fuel efficiency regulations work in this country it makes sense for them to axe sedans from their lineup and replace them with large cars that can be classified as trucks because their more fuel efficient "trucks" can counteract the fine they would get from selling fuel inefficient F150s.
Other brands surely have cheaper basic options, and although I might not recommend going all the way to a Stellantis/GM car, a Ford/Honda/Mazda might be available for less and still be acceptable for quality.