The Chevrolet Equinox provides unrivaled bang for the buck. It starts at just above $23,000 while having a premium cabin and a luxurious ride, similar to what you can expect from a car costing twice as much.

On the other side of the spectrum is the all new 2013 Mazda CX-5. The interior is simple, plain, yet elegant, but it fails to match up against the plush Chevy Equinox. However, the Mazda CX-5 has a lot of aces up its sleeve.

It benefits from Mazda’s SKYACTIV-G technology. In lay man’s speak, SKYACTIV-G enhances engine and transmission performance, reduces overall vehicle weight, and makes the car more fuel efficient. The MAzda CX-5 is also fun to drive, with sporty handling and accurate steering.

It is only fair to compare the Chevrolet Equinox with the Mazda CX-5. Here is our car price review:

Chevrolet Equinox

The Chevy Equinox is similar to the Dodge Durango in terms of size classification: it slots in nicely between small and medium without going overboard. Chevrolet wanted the Equinox to have more interior space, and the size is further magnified by the butch stance and the aggressive arch of the front and rear fenders.

The base Chevy Equinox starts at $23,500 while the top-of-the-line LTZ model starts at $29,220. Power comes in the form of either a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine with 184hp and 22/32 MPG, or a 3.0-liter V6 with 264hp and 17/24 MPG. The engines are governed by a six-speed automatic transmission with front-wheel drive, but serious off-roaders can choose the available AWD system for maximum traction and grip on unpaved roads.

The rear seats of the Chevy Equinox are roomier than what the Toyota RAV4 and the Honda CR-V has to offer, but this manages to impede rear cargo room. The best thing about the Chevy Equinox is the build quality and upscale feel of the cabin. The suspension was also tuned to filter out road noise, harshness, and vibrations.

Mazda CX-5

Mazda vehicles are known for two things: sportiness and low price. With that in mind, let us introduce the all new 2013 Mazda CX-5. Mazda engineers managed to reinvent the compact SUV and make people forget the equally-talented Mazda CX-7.

However, the Mazda CX-5 goes beyond expectations with best-in-class fuel economy, exhilarating performance, and a sporty yet comfortable ride. Driving the Mazda CX-5 will make you think that you are driving a German compact sedan, minus the upscale cabin and expensive amenities.

Power comes courtesy of a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with 155hp. You might think that this is not enough, but the new engine is able to deliver thrilling acceleration while returning 26 city/33 highway MPG with the standard manual transmission. Prices start at $20,695 for the base model CX-5 and around $27,000 for the top-of-the-line Grand Touring model.

Both vehicles can accommodate five passengers and small to medium cargo. Both vehicles are cleverly-designed to stand out from the rest of the pack. If you want a comfortable compact SUV with generous amounts of luxury then the Chevy Equinox is worth a look. However, if you want your small SUV to be nimble and fun to drive, look no further than the Mazda CX-5.

When thinking about which luxury car to buy, you should definitely include the Chrysler 300 and the Toyota Avalon to your shopping list.

Update: There is a new Toyota Avalon that will be launched in the last quarter of 2012. Until the new car hits the showrooms, we will compare the 2012 Toyota Avalon with the 2012 Chrysler 300.

Engines and Powertrain

The base Chrysler 300 is powered by a 3.6-liter V6 with 292hp with rear-wheel drive (AWD is an option on higher trim levels). This engine is controlled via a 5-speed or 8-speed automatic tranmission. You can also choose the 5.7-liter V8 with 363hp and a five-speed automatic. The SRT8 model comes with a 6.3-liter V8 with 470hp. In the meantime, Toyota is offering the Avalon with a solitary 3.5-liter V6 with 268hp and a six-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard on the Toyota Avalon.

Fuel Economy

The Chrysler 300 is rated at 18/27 MPG in rear-wheel drive and a five-speed automatic transmission. The V6 with the 8-speed automatic transmission achieves 19/31 MPG. The Toyota Avalon has a fuel mileage of 19/28 MPG.

Equipment Levels

The Chrysler 300 comes equipped with automatic headlights, auto-dimming rearview mirror, dual zone auto climate control, and keyless ignition and entry. The Toyota Avalon has more standard equipment including supple leather upholstery, sunroof, rearview camera, and a power driver seat.

Safety

We are proud to say that the Chrysler 300 and the Toyota Avalon were both included in the Top Safety Pick of the IIHS for 2012. Both cars were given an overall ‘Good’ rating in front and side impact crash tests. Both cars come equipped with airbags galore along with stability and traction control.

Price

This is where the Chrysler 300 shines as it also has an attractive base price. The 300 starts at only $27,470 while the Toyota Avalon starts at $33,195.

Both of these cars are supple and comfortable to drive, but as previously mentioned in the first part of this post, they are different when it comes to styling and intent. The Chrysler 300 is sportier than the Toyota Avalon, and the styling will cater to both young and old alike. The Toyota Avalon carries the tradition of conservative Toyota styling, while on-road behavior is tuned towards comfort rather than driving enjoyment.

Make sure that you compare new car prices before you buy. This will help you find the right car that will bring you true value for money.

You might be asking yourself: why choose the Focus and the Elantra, and not include the equally talented Chevy Cruze, Mazda 3, or Honda Civic into the mix?

There are two reasons for this:

1. There is no doubt that the Ford Focus changed the way on how people will perceive a compact car. The Focus has the kind of road behavior that can only come from the best European marquees. We are not saying that the Chevrolet Cruze or the Mazda 3 is inferior in terms of the Focus (the Mazda 3 is related to the Ford Focus, after all), but there is no question that the Focus is still the benchmark when it comes to designing and engineering a modern compact car; and

2. The Hyundai Elantra managed to overtake the competition when it comes to styling and perceived value. It also happens that the Elantra is one of the newer entrants in the compact department (we wanted to include the Dodge Dart but we will do that in the near future.)

The Ford Focus (especially in hatchback form) can attend to the needs of the young and the “young-at-heart”. Strangely enough, the same can be said for the Hyundai Elantra–albeit with a lower price tag.

Engine and Powertrain

The Focus is powered by a stout 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine that generates 160hp. This engine is mated to either a five-speed manual or a high-tech 6-speed dual clutch automatic. The Hyundai Elantra is motivated by a smaller 1.8-liter 4-cylinder that produces 148hp (145hp in California models). The engine can be controlled via a 6-speed manual or a six-speed automatic. The Focus can deliver more linear acceleration than the Elantra, with the Focus reaching 0 to 60 MPH in 8.7 seconds, compared to the Elantra which completes 0 to 60 MPH in a decent 9.4 seconds

Fuel Economy

The Focus achieves an average of 38mpg to 40mpg in highway driving. The Hyundai Elantra can easily achieve 40mpg in highway driving.

Equipment Levels

The Focus comes equipped with air-conditioning, keyless entry, power accessories, and a 4-speaker audio system in base S trim. The Hyundai Elantra gets more standard equipment for the price, including a 6-speaker audio system with satellite radio, a trip computer, full power accessories, and keyless entry.

Safety

Both the Ford Focus and the Hyundai Elantra were named into the IIHS Top Safety Pick for 2012. Both cars managed to garner the highest score of ‘Good’ in front-offset, side-impact, and roof integrity tests.

Price

This is perhaps one of the brightest merits of the Hyundai Elantra, as it starts at only around $16,695. In the meantime, the Focus starts at around $18,300.

Choose the Ford Focus is you want a spacious and fun-to-drive compact car with solid on-road dynamics. The Hyundai Elantra is the best choice if you are looking for an economical, safe, and stylish city car.

Enter the Lexus CT200h. When it comes to luxury, Lexus cars are one of the best–and one of the most expensive as well. But the CT 200h is different. Many might say that the Lexus CT is just a more plush version of the Toyota Prius, but this is not the case. The CT is properly sporty, with a revised suspension and a lower stance compared to the Toyota Prius.

As an added bonus, it just so happens that the Lexus CT 200h is the cheapest Lexus model in the lineup.

Both cars are made by Toyota, and both cars cater to the same market. But can the Lexus CT 200h justify the more expensive price tag over the Toyota Prius?

Engine and Power Train

The Toyota Prius is powered by a 1.8-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine and a pair of electric motors, which is the same with the Lexus CT 200h. Both vehicles produce 134hp. Even though the Lexus was designed for sportier driving, the Prius is marginally faster when it comes to acceleration, hitting 0 to 60 mph in 10.1 seconds, compared to the Lexus’ 10.4 seconds.

Fuel Economy

The Toyota Prius is one of the most fuel-efficient vehicles in America, achieving an impressive fuel mileage of 51 mpg city and 48 mpg highway. The Lexus CT 200h achieves 43 mpg city and 40 mpg highway. The Prius is more fuel efficient, but the Lexus is heavier and has larger wheels and tires. Besides, not many cars can achieve the fuel mileage of the Lexus CT 200h.

Equipment Levels

The Lexus CT 200h comes with a premium badge, hence it is expected to come with more standard equipment. Available in two trim models, the base CT already comes with large and lightweight 17-inch alloys, keyless entry, a dual zone climate control system, Bluetooth, a power adjustable driver seat, and a 6-speaker audio system.

The Toyota Prius is not short on features, either. Base models come equipped with automatic climate control, trip computer, heated power mirrors, and 15-inch alloy wheels.

Safety

The Toyota Prius has an impressive list of safety features that includes anti-lock brakes, stability control, traction control, side airbags, curtain airbags, and a knee airbag. The Lexus CT 200h has the same level of safety features as the Toyota Prius but adds a passenger-side knee airbag, the Vehicle Proximity Notification System that alerts pedestrians on the presence of the whisper-quiet Lexus, and the Safety Connect telematics feature.

Price

The Toyota Prius starts at around $23,000 while the Lexus CT 200h starts at around $29,000. If you need a hybrid car for the family, then the Toyota Prius is a wiser and more economical choice. But if you need a personal hybrid car that is sporty, luxurious, and refined, then the Lexus CT 200h should be your top pick.

Find and compare hybrid car prices before approaching the dealer so you can easily figure out the right hybrid vehicle for your needs and budget.

Luxury cars can come in all sizes and shapes, but the 5 best luxury cars in our list are those that pushed the boundaries of performance, style, and plush comfort.

Here are the 5 best luxury cars to buy in 2012:

1. Audi A6/Audi A7

The Audi A6 and A7 deserves to be mentioned in the same breath because they are both designed with supreme luxury in mind. However, the difference lies in the design. The A7 is obviously designed for a different type of buyer, one who prioritizes art and engineering over practicality. The redesigned Audi A6 is even better than before. It is lighter, faster, and more fuel efficient than the old A6.

2. Cadillac CTS-V

The Cadillac CTS-V is special, because it successfully bridged the gap between a full-on luxury car and dedicated sports car. The CTS-V was honed on the German Nordschleife, displaying incredible composure and handling even on the most demanding of roads.

3. Lincoln MKS

The Lincoln MKS is designed and engineered to please the senses. It is not the best handling car in the group, but it delivers a cushy ride, supreme driving silence, and a bevy of high-tech standard features for the price. The Lincoln MKS is American luxury redefined.

4. Jaguar XF

No one ever thought that Jaguar would once again reign supreme in the luxury segment. In all honesty, the new Jaguar XJ also deserves special credit for being one of the most stylish and comfortable luxury cars in the market today. However, the Jaguar XF is able to deliver the same kind of refinement and performance as the XJ, but for a lower price. The XF is modern, luxurious, and beautiful in true Jaguar standards.

5. Mercedes-Benz E-class

When it comes to luxury, the Mercedes-Benz E-class is a brilliant choice. It now also comes in coupe and convertible versions, enabling you to experience true German luxury in any kind of body type. The Mercedes E-class is the benchmark of a true luxury car. It rides smoothly and quietly even on pockmarked roads, with the kind of ride comfort that can only be described as plush.

Remember to compare luxury car prices online to easily find the best deals and the best offers from a dealer near you.

Can you tow heavy loads with your fuel-efficient compact car? Can you go off-road in a large sedan? Probably not. But the good news is that modern large SUV’s have been honed and refined to deliver acceptable levels of fuel economy. These macho machines may not be the last word in fuel economy, but they fulfill heavy duty jobs with utmost ease and comfort.

Here are the 5 best and most affordable large SUV’s of 2012:

1. Ford Expedition

Simply said, the Ford Expedition is a capable and comfortable SUV. It remains to be cavernous, ergonomic, and luxurious all at the same time. The Ford Expedition can do it all: it can tow up to 9,400 lbs. and it can carry eight passengers in luxurious comfort. The Expedition is a valid excuse to spend your $37,600.

2. Chevrolet Suburban

When it comes to large SUV’s, it is hard not to include the Chevrolet Suburban into the conversation. Similar to the Ford Expedition, the Chevrolet Suburban is a true truck-based SUV. It was built to withstand the rigors of heavy duty work and countless hours of demanding driving. On the inside, the Suburban presents a very comfortable passenger compartment, made better by the smooth and fuss-free ride. The Suburban presents good value at $42,220.

3. GMC Yukon

Starting at a base price of $40,000, the GMC Yukon allows you to experience American luxury without spending a lot of cash. The GMC Yukon has superb fit and finish both on the outside and inside the cabin. You will instantly get the feeling that the GMC Yukon is a superbly-built SUV right from the very moment that you enter the cabin.

4. Toyota Sequoia

The Toyota line of cars and SUV’s are all known for one particular attribute: reliability. But it so happens that Toyota SUV’s are refined and extremely durable as well. The Toyota Sequoia is big, spacious, and capable of lasting hundreds of thousands of enjoyable driving miles. The Sequoia is also quiet and serene on the highway, making it the perfect family vehicle in the $40,000 price range.

5. Chevrolet Tahoe

The Chevy Tahoe starts at only $38,700 and is a solid pick in the large SUV category. The Tahoe is perfect for medium to large families and it has the ability to carry seven passengers in true comfort–with enough legroom and headroom to fit real adults in the third row seats. The Tahoe is quiet and smooth on the highway but equally capable when it comes to challenging dirt roads.

In these tough times, it is still possible to buy a large SUV without investing all your life’s savings. Remember to compare large SUV prices to effectively determine the right SUV for your budget.

Price

The Ford Flex starts at around $30,800 and the Toyota Highlander has a base price of $28,200. The Flex is more expensive, but it does have unique styling and an overall premium feel compared to the Highlander.

The base model Ford Flex also comes with additional equipment such as a leather-wrapped steering wheel, parking sensors, and a power operated driver’s seat.

When it comes to cost, the Highlander wins because it has a more affordable base price. But if you don’t mind paying an additional $2,000 or more for more style and added features on the Ford Flex, then you will not be disappointed either.

Safety

Both the Ford Flex and the Toyota Highlander were named to the 2012 IIHS Top Safety Pick in the midsize SUV category. Both vehicles come standard with anti-lock brakes, traction control, stability control, and a host of airbags for better crash protection.

Power, Performance and Fuel Economy

Both vehicles were not designed for all-out performance, but engine power will determine how well the vehicle reacts to a slight push of the pedal, and will also affect fuel economy.

In this regard, the Ford Flex gains an advantage over the Toyota Highlander. The base model Ford Flex comes standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 285hp and 25 MPG highway. The base Highlander is powered by a 2.7-liter 4-cylinder engine with 187hp and 25 MPG highway. If you choose the more expensive Highlander with the V6 engine, you can only muster 270hp and 24 MPG highway.

Interior Space and Overall Comfort

The Ford Flex has a more unusual, unique, and premium exterior design over the Toyota Highlander, and this trend continues inside the interior. The Flex is incredibly roomy for seven adults, and the third row seat was designed to fit real human beings. The cabin is also wrapped in soft touch plastics that further enhance the premium feel.

The Toyota Highlander provides vast amounts of space in the front and in the back, but it lacks room in the third-row seats, making them only suitable for children or vertically-challenged adults.

The Ford Flex is comfortable to drive, and the suspension is able to soak up and muffle unnecessary road noise from entering the cabin. The Toyota Highlander is also comfortable to drive, but the Ford Flex has sharper steering that makes it totally fun to drive.

The Toyota Highlander is a solid choice if you are looking for a competent, versatile, and reliable family SUV. On the other hand, the Ford Flex is ideal if you are looking for something different and more fun to drive, without losing the capability to carry the entire family.

Find the lowest new car prices for the Ford Flex and the Toyota Highlander in under a minute, so you can instantly figure out which vehicle is better suited for your needs and budget.

Midsize sedans are presumably more comfortable and easier to drive and maneuver on tight parking spaces compared to a bulky SUV. If all you need is to carry five passengers and a small amount of stuff, then a midsize sedan is more than willing to tackle the job.

Perhaps the biggest reason for buying a normal sedan is the fuel economy. The 5 best and most affordable midsize sedans in our list all average more than 20 MPG in city driving, and not less than 29 MPG on the highway. With today’s fuel prices, it helps to have a car that utilizes every drop of fuel in an economical manner.

1. Ford Fusion and Ford Fusion Hybrid

Say hello to the 2013 Ford Fusion Energi on the picture above. This new model of the Ford Fusion will serve as the benchmark for other family sedans in the near future. Although the Fusion Energi is a plug-in hybrid, Ford promises that the new EcoBoost gas engines on the conventional Fusion will be better and more economical than the 23/33 city and highway rating of the old car. Regardless of the case, the 2012 Ford Fusion is still one of the best midsize sedans in America.

2. Chevrolet Malibu

The Chevrolet Malibu is a wonderful family car. It has a subtle yet aggressive design. It is also spacious, well-equipped, and rides comfortably even on rutted city roads. The cabin is also premium in design. The Malibu is also more affordable at around $22,100.

3. Hyundai Sonata

The Hyundai Sonata offers a lot of standard features for the $19,795 base price. It has a direct-injected gasoline engine that gets 35 MPG on the highway. You also get electronic stability control and a host of airbags for an increased margin of safety.

4. Kia Optima

Yet another Korean car managed to make it to our list of the 5 best midsize sedans. This is further proof that style, value, and standard features need not be sacrificed in order to drive a decent car. Starting at just $21,000, the Kia Optima is more than a decent alternative; it is a car that deserves your attention.

5. Volkswagen Passat

Quality, engineering, and style: this is what you get from the Volkswagen Passat. With a base price of less than $20,000 the Passat offers more than just exceptional quality. It has a refined and luxurious interior and offers tons of space for four adult passengers. The Passat is also available with a diesel engine that averages 43 highway miles per gallon.

If you are searching for a new car, try asking for multiple price quotes online in order to know the latest new car prices. This enables you to compare prices and find the best deals without leaving home.

The Europeans have been doing it for quite some time. Why waste money on a large and expensive SUV if all that you really need is a simple mode of transportation that will take you from point A to point B?

We now present to you our top pick for the 5 best and most affordable small cars of 2012. We took all the latest 2012 models and compared them according to price, performance, and fuel economy. If small cars used to be identified with cheap plastic parts and questionable build quality, the small cars of 2012 will change your perception when it comes to affordable and fun to drive vehicles.

1. Ford Fiesta

The Ford Fiesta offers more for the humble $15,670 price tag. It offers superior driving dynamics, excellent handling, and a tech-filled interior for a more comfortable and convenient driving experience. The Fiesta returns 29/39mpg and is a top safety pick by the IIHS for 2012.

2. Honda Fit

The Honda Fit delivers a spacious interior, amazing versatility, and a fun to drive demeanor, all for just $15,175. Like the Ford Fiesta, the Honda Fit was also named as the top safety pick by the IIHS, making it an economical and safe choice for a small car. The Fit also returns 27/33mpg.

3. Chevrolet Sonic

Whether you choose the sedan or the hatchback, you are sure to enjoy every minute behind the wheel of the Chevrolet Sonic. With prices stating at only $13,865, the Sonic was also included in the IIHS top safety pick of 2012, and has an engine and transmission combo that returns 40mpg in highway driving.

4. Nissan Versa

Think that $10,000 is not enough to get you a brand new car? Think again. The Nissan Versa sedan starts at only $10,990 and is the cheapest new car in America. Also available in hatchback body trim, the Versa is able to provide comfortable accommodations, a well-built interior, and a quiet and smooth ride. It is also a safe car, being included in the IIHS top safety pick as well.

5. Kia Forte

The Kia Forte sedan starts at $15,200 and the hatchback is around $18,000. The Forte sedan was also named to the top safety pick of the IIHS and is one of the most stylish small cars in the road today. The Forte has a smooth and economical gasoline engine that returns 27mpg city and 37mpg highway.

When shopping for a new car, you should make car dealers compete so you can save more money. Find the actual dealer invoice of the car that you want and you are sure to find the best local deals in your zip code!

But all of this has changed. Modern compact SUV’s have lighter bodies, sturdier construction, and outstanding quality. Best of all, they are now more fuel efficient and are easier to drive. Here are the 5 best and most affordable compact SUV’s for the money. Take your pick from what the automotive industry has to offer:

1. Kia Sportage

With space-age looks and a more refined interior, the Kia Sportage is a solid choice for a compact SUV. The Sportage offers premium looks at a friendly price. Prices start at around $18,500.

2. Hyundai Tucson

Another Korean brand is set to dominate the compact SUV category. The Hyundai Tucson offers generous levels of standard kit at an affordable stating price of $19,200.

3. Subaru Forester

The Forester is special because it has a rally-bred chassis, a powerful and efficient Boxer engine, and standard symmetrical all-wheel drive. This means that the Forester offers more grip and control over slippery situations. Base price starts at $20,700.

4. GMC Terrain

The GMC Terrain may be more expensive than the rest of the cars on the list but it offers plenty of interior space and a healthy dose of refinement. The GMC Terrain offers an abundance of luxury features without paying a premium price tag. Prices start at around $25,500.

5. Chevrolet Equinox

Expect new age styling, a comfortable and luxurious cabin, and a quiet and well-sorted ride when driving the Chevrolet Equinox. It also offers plenty of shoulder room and knee room for both the front and rear passengers for a relaxing driving experience. Prices start at $23,500.

Prices will vary depending on your zip code. Remember to compare car prices before heading to the dealership to get the most out of your hard earned money.