Editorial
Comments on the Top 10 Coolest New Cars Under $18,000
Chevrolet
Cobalt LS Coupe — This good-looking new package is a far cry from its
predecessor, the late, unlamented Chevrolet Cavalier. Its taut feel and good response
are a revelation.
Ford
Focus ZX3 SES — Pocket rocket American style, the ZX3 SES shows that Ford's
U.S. engineers have learned a great deal from their European colleagues, and the
styling is distinctive, not "me too."
Honda
Element — If you want versatility, you're in your Element. The reverse-hinged
rear doors make a fashion statement, but the big advantages of the Element are
its form-follows-function design and its overall usability.
Hyundai
Tiburon — There's still room in the American market for an inexpensive sporty
coupe, and the Tiburon plays that tune about as well as anyone these days.
Kia
Spectra Hatchback — This new-for-05 Spectra offers station wagon-like versatility
and space in an inexpensive-to-buy and reasonable-to-maintain package. The big
plus is its lengthy warranty coverage.
Mazda3
Hatchback — The Mazda3 is a huge advance over its predecessor Protégé,
and while the Protégé was a very good car, the Mazda3's great interior
and exterior design, plus good power make it a killer deal.
MINI
Cooper — When it comes to surprise-and-delight features few cars at any price
can top the MINI Cooper; in this car you discover more cool features every time
you drive it, and the driving experience itself is remarkable.
Scion
tC — Take sophisticated styling, a willing engine, a palatable price; mix
in Toyota quality and what do you have? Another winner from the young Scion brand.
Scion
xB — The 2005 epitome of it's hip-to-be-square, the xB breadbox on wheels
is the automotive equivalent of Dickies shorts and skate shoes - if somebody has
to explain them to you, you'll never understand.
Toyota
Tacoma Prerunner — There are darn few inexpensive vehicles that a guy can
feel comfortable in, but the Tacoma is a great personal-use truck that rides and
handles better than many cars.
The
top 10 coolest new cars under $18,000 were chosen based on the expert opinions
of the Kelley Blue Book editorial team. Selection was based on price, design,
style and performance, as well as, extensive research of each vehicle and test
drives of vehicles selling at or below $18,000.
For
more information on Kelley Blue Book values, see www.kbb.com. (...BACK)
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