2012 Kia Soul – 8.2
The 2012 Kia Soul is one tall hatchback wagon that offers more than just fuel efficiency. Other standout features include a back-up camera, dual 12-volt outlets, rear wiper-washer and cruise control. The Soul provides a versatile, spacious interior, thanks to its tall roofline, and fold-down rear seats that provide 53 cubic feet of cargo capacity. An extensive list of standard safety features (and an optional rearview camera), IIHS Top Safety Pick status, and the Soul is a “right-priced” wagon for about $20,000 for anyone “who needs a little more wagon in their lives, but could do without the size or weight of a bigger crossover or minivan.”
2012 Mazda Mazda3 – 8.2
Long known for its fun-to-drive characteristics, the 2012 Mazda Mazda3 sports a new four-cylinder engine paired with either a six-speed automatic or six-speed manual transmission. To get this 155-horsepower engine delivering up to 40 mpg highway fuel economy, however, you’ll need to choose the Mazda3i Touring or Grand Touring sedan with automatic. Other pluses with the Mazda3 lineup include generous, supportive seats, a reasonably accommodating rear seat, a low-flat loading floor (with rear seats folded), an available blind-spot monitoring system and IIHS Top Safety Pick status. Get a surprisingly well-equipped Mazda3 for around $16K.
2012 Suzuki Kizashi – 8.2
Consumers looking for a sophisticated, surprisingly well-equipped compact sporty sedan should definitely consider the 2012 Suzuki Kizashi. Although the brand may not have developed the cachet of other competing compact sedans, our review says it is “one of the best compact sedans on the market.” Nicely supportive bucket seats, richly-grained plastics and soft-touch padded surfaces make riding in the Kizashi pleasant. A strong list of standard features for the money includes keyless entry and dual-zone climate control. A navigation system, including rearview camera, real-time traffic and iPod controls, is a lot-cost option. The base Suzuki Kizashi with manual transmission starts at $18,999, excluding destination charge.
2012 Subaru Impreza – 7.8
The all-new 2012 Subaru Impreza compact sedan and hatchback models have, in the words of TCC editors, “higher gas mileage, more space inside, a nicer interior, and all-wheel drive standard,” making the Impreza “a newly compelling compact alternative.” Fuel economy with four-door manual is 34 mpg highway, while the four-door automatic delivers an estimated 36 mpg in the highway cycle. Pricing starts at $17,495 (sedan with manual gearbox) and $18,495 (sedan with automatic transmission), both excluding destination charge. Improved driver visibility, the addition of a seventh airbag, and new-for-2012 brake override control contribute to the Impreza’s continuing high safety marks, including an IIHS Top Safety Pick designation.
(c) 2012, High Gear Media.
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