The Chevrolet Sonic is a peppy, well-executed subcompact car with lots of standard features and surprisingly good performance at a reasonable price.

The Ford Fiesta comes powered by a 1.6-liter 4-cylinder offering adequate power and good fuel economy. With seating for 5, the Fiesta features comfortable seats and sporty handling.

The Honda Fit is one of the most versatile vehicles in its class, thanks to its "magic" rear seats. It is powered by a willing 1.5-liter 4-cylinder and offers excellent handling.

Available in sedan and hatchback bodystyles, the Hyundai Accent offers a solid combination of value, utility and fuel economy. It's a complete package for an affordable price.

The Kia Soul comes with bold styling, powered by two 4-cylinder engines, and provides space for five passengers in a spacious and versatile interior.

Powered by a 1.5-liter 4-cylinder, the Mazda 2 is practical and quite a bit of fun to drive. It's maneuverable for tight parking spaces, roomy for four and offers good cargo capacity.

Powered by fuel-efficient 1.6l engines, the Mini Cooper comes in hatchback and convertible styles with, in hatchback form at least, decent space, and offers excellent handling.

Powered by a choice of 4-cylinder engines, the Nissan Versa offers seating for five in hatchback and sedan bodystyles and comes with decent handling.

The Scion iQ is a focussed city car with four seats that works well in densely populated areas. Powered by a 1.3-liter engine, the Scion iQ provides decent acceleration but lacks sportiness.

Like its predecessor, the xA, the Scion xD comes well equipped, with air con, a Pioneer stereo, a full complement of power accessories, six airbags, anti-lock brakes, EBD, and brake-assist.

The smallest car available in the US, the Smart Fortwo comes powered by a 1.0l 3-cyl. engine and offers space for two passengers in hatchback and convertible bodystyles.

The Toyota Yaris is powered by a 1.5l 4-cylinder, offering solid construction, good handling, and a relatively spacious interior for up to five passengers.