Kbb.com Lists Top Models that Don't Strain Budgets

April 30, 2008

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IRVINE, Calif. — With gas prices progressively climbing, more consumers are turning their attention to smaller, more fuel-efficient models. These vehicles have become of particular importance to many given the current economy, which has made consumers more cautious in purchases.

In response to this trend, Kelley Blue Book's Kbb.com recently named its Top 10 Coolest Cars Under $18,000. A common trend found among the picks are vehicles that provide versatility and technological amenities, while at the same time, practicality, editors noted.

For instance, various options throughout the list include navigation, hard-drive music storage, voice-controlled iPod integration, Bluetooth phone connectivity, push-button start and leather seating.

Moreover, eight of the 10 vehicles are flexible five-door hatchbacks or have that feature available, officials noted.

"The vehicles on our Top 10 Coolest New Cars Under $18,000 list are very fun to drive and feature-filled. First-time buyers and frugal down-sizers have never had it so good," commented Jack Nerad, executive editorial director and executive market analyst for Kbb.com.

"Manufacturers are finding ways to nicely equip their entry-level vehicles while still keeping the price reasonably low, and consumers are reaping the benefits more and more each year," Nerad continued.

Editors used these criteria to determine the list: safety, fuel economy, interior size, comfort, technology as well as the "fun-to-drive" and "cool" factors.

The top 10, with MSRP, New Car Blue Book Value and editorial commentary included:

2008 Ford Focus

"‘Cool' might not be the first word that pops into your head upon seeing the new Ford Focus, but don't judge this book by its cover," the site indicated. "The Focus sedan and coupe are the most affordable cars in which you can get the SYNC music and phone integration system that allows you, for instance, to play any song in your digital library simply by saying its name. That's cool."

MSRP: $15,280; New Car Blue Book Value: $14,942

2008 Honda Fit

"With gas prices on the rise, small cars like the Honda Fit are gaining in popularity. The Fit sips gasoline and offers the sportiest driving experience available in an econo-car," editors highlighted.

"Plus, the seats can be configured in multiple arrangements, so it can easily hold things like your friends, your gear or a medium-sized alpaca (according to a photo on Honda's Web site, anyway)," they continued.

MSRP: $14,585; Blue Book Value: $14,585

2008 Jeep Patriot

"The Jeep Patriot has a classic look reminiscent of the departed Jeep Cherokee plus a functional interior and a sub-$18,000 price tag — even when equipped with four-wheel drive," analysts noted. "Combined with highway fuel economy up to 28 miles per gallon, the Patriot delivers a cool mix of SUV-like versatility and car-like efficiency for buyers on a budget."

MSRP: $16,055; Blue Book Value: $15,894

2008 Mazda3

"On our list for the fifth year in a row and still in its first generation, the Mazda3 is the current elder statesman of cool compact cars," editors commented. "Available in four- and five-door layouts, the dynamic Mazda3 is responsive, quick and stylish, but also comfortable, efficient and practical."

MSRP: $17,230; Blue Book Value: $16,799

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer

"The Mitsubishi Lancer's aggressive, rally-inspired looks belie a starting price of less than $15,000," officials pointed out. "The low cost of entry will leave many buyers with enough extra cash to add cool options like a hard-drive navigation system, an impressive premium audio system or perhaps a stylish spoiler."

MSRP: $14,615; Blue Book Value: $14,396

2009 Pontiac Vibe

"The hot-looking Pontiac Vibe has always delivered a very cool combination of affordability, versatility and fuel economy," editors stated. "Compared with its predecessor, the new-for-‘09, second-generation Vibe boasts a sportier look inside and out, more powerful engines and even a lower starting price."

MSRP: $15,895; Blue Book Value: $15,895

2008 Scion xB

"The original ‘box on wheels' grew rounder, larger and more powerful for 2008, but the xB remains a distinctively styled non-conformist," analysts commented. "Cool standard features include steering-wheel mounted audio controls, iPod integration and a choice of three wheel designs for instant customization at the dealership."

MSRP: $16,270; Blue Book Value: $16,351

2008 Subaru Impreza

"With 170-horsepower, all-wheel drive and a double-wishbone rear suspension, the Subaru Impreza sedan adds a sporty and capable touch to our cool car selection," editors explained. "The five-door variant has a similar base price and suits those in need of more cargo room for their active lifestyles.'

MSRP: $17,640; Blue Book Value: $17,375

2008 Suzuki SX4

"This is the second year in a row that Suzuki's small crossover has made our list of cool cars under $18,000," Kbb.com pointed out. "In addition to a sporty exterior and roomy, stylish interior, the SX4 still has the distinction of being the least expensive all-wheel-drive vehicle sold in America."

MSRP: $15,395; Blue Book Value: $15,164

2008 Volkswagen Rabbit

"The versatile and affordable Volkswagen Rabbit hopped its way onto our list with its perky 2.5-liter engine, comfortable ride, sharp handling and a level of interior refinement rivaling that of some much pricier vehicles," editors noted.

MSRP: $16,250; Blue Book Value: $16,088

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