Car Prices Blogs

Do you want to jump start your way towards fuel savings? You should trade or sell your gas-guzzling sedan or SUV for an efficient small car.

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!