Once more into the fray! Onward and upward! This time we’re looking at cars between $16,000 and $18,000. Things start getting really good now, and again they’re in alphabetical order to insure no favoritism…
1. 2004 Acura TSX – Although the TSX replaced the Integra as the smallest Acura sedan, unlike the Civic-based Integra, the TSX shares the same platform as the European Accord – albeit with firmer suspension settings. The ’04 TSX is at the top of everybody’s list – from Consumer Reports to CNN.
2. 2005 Ford Escape Hybrid – If you really have to have an SUV, how about a compact one that will get over 30 mpg in the city and about 25 on the highway? The Escape does all this in a pleasing package with plenty of space on the inside and nice styling on the outside.
3. 2007 Honda Accord – The Accord’s “best” list appearances is the automotive equivalent of the movie Poltergeist – “they’re back!” And for good reason. Value for the dollar, high quality and great materials are three reasons the Accord is at the top of its class.
4. 2006 Honda CR-V – 2006 marked the last year of the second-generation CR-V. In addition to standard ABS, all 2006 CR-Vs came with side airbags, side curtain airbags, electronic brake distribution and vehicle stability assist.
5. 2004 Infiniti G35 Sedan – Didn’t we tell you it was going to get fun? Named one of Car and Driver’s ten best for 2004, the G35 shares its platform with the Nissan 350Z and it’s every bit as good as the Z, even going a step further with a real back seat and two extra doors. Throw in superb handling and terrific styling and you have the Japanese answer to the BMW 3 series.
6. 2006 Mazda Miata – Every used car list needs at least one fun ride and the MX-5 fits that to a “T”. Since its introduction in 1989, the Miata has been the perfect example of the “less is more” school of sports car design. If you live in the sunbelt and don’t play much golf, you might even consider driving one year ‘round.
7. 2007 Mercury Milan – Mercury division’s version of the Ford Fusion, the Milan is more formal both on the inside as well as the outside. Standard features include ABS, a full compliment of airbags as well as a 6 speed transmission that comes standard with the optional V-6.
8. 2007 Nissan Altima 4 cyl. – The 2007 Altima begins the 4th generation of this model. Completely redesigned and based on Nissan’s D platform architecture, the Altima borrows styling cues from its G35 cousin. Sporting such niceties as pushbutton start and Bluetooth connectivity, the new Altima has no fewer than nine (!) cupholders. A full compliment of airbags completes the package.
9. 2006 Subaru Forester – Car and Driver magazine rated the ’06 Forester one of their 5 best trucks for good reason. This Subaru is one of the most versatile small SUVs on the market. Solid and reliable, the Forester will reward you will city gas mileage in the low 20’s.
10. 2005 Toyota Prius – Everything we previously said about the 2004 Prius holds true for the 2005 version as well. Toyota owns the hybrid market in the U.S. and it’s easy to see why. With plenty of room and mpg in the 40’s, used Priuses are getting harder and harder to find.
Tags: Acura TSX, Ford Escape Hybrid, Honda Accord, Honda CR-V, Infiniti G35, Mazda Miata, Mercury Milan, Nissan Altima, Subaru Forester, Toyota Prius
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