It is no surprise in this economy that American consumers are looking for automobiles in the shallow end of the pool rather than in the luxury end. But how can we tell which ones give us the best value for the money? I asked Jody Victor to tell us what www.msn.com had to say.
Jody Victor: If you look at current cars priced under $15,000, and compare style, functionality and utility you can find some great deals. Here are the first 5 of 10 from msn.com with style for the money.
Chevy Cobalt - At $14,990, 155 hp, standard 5-speed transmission, 25 mpg city/37 highway, no AC, no power locks and windows, no anti-lock braking system, and a low-grade interior the stock model Cobalt is basic transportation. It can, however, be optioned up. The LS model ($15,670) adds AC, the LT1 ($16,470) delivers the power amenities and upgraded interior and exterior trim, and the LT2 ($17,480) adds ABS and cruise control.
Toyota Yaris - MSRP $12,605 with 106 hp, 29 mpg city/36 highway, standard 5-speed transmission. The base model includes air conditioning but no radio. The Power Package option includes the usual suspects in the power amenity and audio departments for an up-charge - grand total of $14,380 - but still under $15,000.
Smart Fortwo Passion Coupe - MSRP $13,990 with 70 hp, 33 mpg city/41 highway, 5-speed standard transmission. The smart fortwo Passion Coupe is a 2-seater with a scant 12 cubic feet of cargo space, aimed at efficient people-moving as a city car or commuter. It does come with a solid standard-equipment lineup featuring paddle shifters, alloy wheels, AC, power windows and locks, remote entry and heated mirrors. The Comfort Package ($850) provides heated leather seats, electric power steering and fog lights, while the audio upgrade ($350) adds a 6-CD changer and better speakers.
Nissan Versa - MSRP 13,350 with 122 hp, 25 mpg city/31 highway, 5-speed manual transmission. It is the most appliance-like, Point A to Point B vehicle on the list. However, it is the cheapest of the 10, Base 1.6 ($9,900) and 1.6 ($11,090). The 1.8S gets the up-level engine and can be ordered in hatch or sedan configuration for the same price. Adding the optional automatic transmission is a no-cost upgrade. Standard goodies include AC, and a CD stereo with auxilliary input jack.
Kia Forte LX - MSRP 13,695, 156 hp, 25 mpg city/34 highway, 5-speed manual transmission. The LX does include a CD stereo, but AC is part of a Convenience Package that costs $1,500 and adds only AC and 60/40 split rear seats with adjustable headrests. An automatic transmission adds $1,000 to the tally.
Thanks, Jody! We'll be sure to check them out!