IRVINE, CA--August 7, 2013: Autobytel Inc. , the company dedicated to helping automotive consumers and dealers connect online, has named its top picks for the most affordably-priced, high quality cars offering buyers great features, design, performance and reliability.
“It's agile and fun, with interior room to spare and a price tag that will make you smile all the way to the bank.”
"Cheap doesn't mean cheaply made," said Michelle Naranjo, editor-in-chief of Autobytel. "The compacts and subcompacts on our list don't always get the attention they deserve. They're well-built, reliable and affordable to own, with standard features you don't expect. These aren't top picks for first-time car buyers only--they're excellent choices for anyone looking to buy a great quality vehicle at the best price."
Following are Autobytel's top five picks for great quality cars at the cheapest price*.
2014 Chevrolet Spark: $12,170
Starting at $12,170--the cheapest car on the Autobytel list--the 2014 Chevy Spark is a 4-door, 4-seat Hatchback available in a variety of jazzy colors, including Jalapeno, Denim and Lemonade. It comes standard with 10 air bags and OnStar with Automatic Crash Response, with MPG estimates in the 31 City/39 Highway range. Other available features include Chevrolet MyLink Radio with Siri Eyes-Free Technology and Hill Start Assist.
"The Chevrolet Spark is flirty and fun, with unique styling and playful colors that turn heads," said Naranjo. "You'll definitely love it in the city, but its open highway drive is equally satisfying. If you're looking for spunkiness at a steal, the Spark rules the road."
2014 Nissan Versa Note: $13,990
This zippy 4-door, 5-seat Hatchback comes available in three trims and is equipped with a 1.6-liter, 109 horsepower engine with maximum MPG estimates in the 31 City/40 Highway range. Available features include remote keyless entry, Bluetooth and Xtronic CVT.
"What I love about the Nissan Versa Note is its big back seat, a well-configured cargo space and luxury appointments on the higher-end model," said Naranjo. "It's delightful to drive and packs a big punch in value, with plenty of great features at bargain basement prices."
2014 Ford Fiesta: $14,000
All new for 2014, the 4-door, 5-seat Ford Fiesta is available in 7 models that come standard with a 1.6- liter Ti-VCT I-4 120 horsepower engine. The Fiesta achieves maximum MPG estimates in the 27 City/38 Highway range, with available features that include MyKey, a rear view camera, Intelligent Access with push-button start, and race-inspired RECARO leather-trimmed front seats.
"The Ford Fiesta is a powerful little compact, with plenty of get-up-and-go for drivers who appreciate sharp response," said Naranjo. "With 10 different paint colors to choose from, a rear view camera that comes standard, and parking sensors for added safety, this is simply a really great car--for people on a budget and for those who aren't."
2013 Hyundai Accent: $14,545
With a starting price of $14,545 and MPG estimates in the 28 City/37 Highway range, the sporty Hyundai Accent offers quality and affordability in a 4-door, 5-seat Sedan. It comes available in 6 trims, (including a Hatchback model), with an airbag occupancy sensor, driveline traction control, iPod/USB auxiliary input jacks and MP3 decoder as standard equipment.
"The Hyundai Accent definitely doesn't cut corners," said Naranjo. "It's sleek and exciting, with plenty of cargo room that rivals many of its midsize competitors. If you're looking for quality, safety and reliability for a song, the Hyundai Accent is a top pick."
2013 Mazda2: $14,720
With MPG estimates in the 29 City/35 Highway range, the 2013 Mazda2 is a 4-door, 5-seat Hatchback available in 4 trims ranging from the Sport (M5) to the Touring (A4). It comes standard with an AM/FM/ CD/MP3 audio system with 4-speakers and iPod/USB. Other features include available 15-inch aluminum alloy wheels and a versatile 40/60 split fold-down rear seatback for bulky cargo.
"The beauty of the Mazda2 is that it's cheap to buy and even cheaper to own, with features that make you feel like you didn't skimp on a thing," said Naranjo. "It's agile and fun, with interior room to spare and a price tag that will make you smile all the way to the bank."
To learn more about the cars featured here, visit Great Cheap Cars
*Prices listed are starting MSRPs.
