Kbb.com Names Top 10 Coolest New Cars Under $18,000
04-29-08, 03:54 PM
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Kbb.com Names Top 10 Coolest New Cars Under $18,000
Versatile, Technology-Filled Vehicles Lead in Growing Entry-Level Segment
IRVINE, Calif., April 29 /PRNewswire/ -- The expert editors at Kelley
Blue Book's kbb.com (http://www.kbb.com), the leading provider of new- and
used-vehicle information, today announce their picks for the Top 10 Coolest
New Cars Under $18,000. The vehicles that made Kelley Blue Book's 2008 list
of Top 10 Coolest New Cars Under $18,000 -- typically a gas-sipping bunch
-- arguably are cooler than they have ever been. More fun, more practical
and more amenity-laden than ever before, today's entry-level vehicles
deliver more than simply affordable and efficient transportation.
Versatility and technology are growing trends in the under-$18,000
segment. Eight of the cars on this year's list are flexible five-door
hatchbacks, or available as such. The collective options list includes
navigation, hard-drive music storage, voice-controlled iPod integration,
Bluetooth phone connectivity, push-button start and leather seating -- some
of which were introduced on high-end luxury cars just a few years ago.
"The vehicles on our Top 10 Coolest New Cars Under $18,000 list are
very fun to drive and feature-filled; first-time buyers and frugal
down-sizers have never had it so good," said Jack R. Nerad, executive
editorial director and executive market analyst for Kelley Blue Book's
kbb.com. "Manufacturers are finding ways to nicely equip their entry-level
vehicles while still keeping the price reasonably low, and consumers are
reaping the benefits more and more each year."
In choosing the 2008 list of Top 10 Coolest New Cars Under $18,000, the
kbb.com editors used the same set of criteria that many consumers use in
examining this category: safety, fuel economy, interior size, comfort,
technology, the vehicle's fun-to-drive-factor, as well as the decidedly
subjective "cool" factor. The editors compiled the list of qualifying
vehicles using Kelley Blue Book's New Car Blue Book Values, which reflect
real-world transaction prices and provide a more useful comparison point
than Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP). Every vehicle on the
list can be purchased for less than $18,000
Top 10 Coolest New Cars Under $18,000
Vehicle MSRP New Car Blue
Book Value
2008 Ford Focus $15,280 $14,942
2008 Honda Fit $14,585 $14,585
2008 Jeep Patriot $16,055 $15,894
2008 Mazda3 $17,230 $16,799
2008 Mitsubishi Lancer $14,615 $14,396
2009 Pontiac Vibe $15,895 $15,895
2008 Scion xB $16,270 $16,351
2008 Subaru Impreza $17,640 $17,375
2008 Suzuki SX4 $15,395 $15,164
2008 Volkswagen Rabbit $16,250 $16,088
Vehicles are listed in alphabetical order. New Car Blue Book Values
represent transaction values, or what others are actually paying for this
vehicle. The listed New Car Blue Book Values were taken from kbb.com during
the week of April 1, 2008. New Car Blue Book Values are updated weekly on
kbb.com. Adding optional equipment at the time of purchase will increase
the price of the vehicle.
Kbb.com Editorial Comments on the Top 10 Coolest New Cars Under $18,000
2008 Ford Focus
"Cool" might not be the first word that pops into your head upon seeing
the new Ford Focus, but don't judge this book by its cover. The Focus sedan
and coupe are the most affordable cars in which you can get the SYNC music
and phone integration system that allows you, for instance, to play any
song in your digital library simply by saying its name. That's cool.
MSRP: $15,280 *NEW CAR BLUE BOOK VALUE: $14,942
2008 Honda Fit
With gas prices on the rise, small cars like the Honda Fit are gaining
in popularity. The Fit sips gasoline and offers the sportiest driving
experience available in an econo-car. Plus, the seats can be configured in
multiple arrangements, so it can easily hold things like your friends, your
gear or a medium-sized alpaca (according to a photo on Honda's Web site,
anyway).
MSRP: $14,585 *NEW CAR BLUE BOOK VALUE: $14,585
2008 Jeep Patriot
The Jeep Patriot has a classic look reminiscent of the departed Jeep
Cherokee plus a functional interior and a sub-$18,000 price tag -- even
when equipped with four-wheel drive. Combined with highway fuel economy up
to 28 miles per gallon, the Patriot delivers a cool mix of SUV-like
versatility and car-like efficiency for buyers on a budget.
MSRP: $16,055 *NEW CAR BLUE BOOK VALUE: $15,894
2008 Mazda3
On our list for the fifth year in a row and still in its first
generation, the Mazda3 is the current elder statesman of cool compact cars.
Available in four- and five-door layouts, the dynamic Mazda3 is responsive,
quick and stylish, but also comfortable, efficient and practical.
MSRP: $17,230 *NEW CAR BLUE BOOK VALUE: $16,799
2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
The Mitsubishi Lancer's aggressive, rally-inspired looks belie a
starting price of less than $15,000. The low cost of entry will leave many
buyers with enough extra cash to add cool options like a hard-drive
navigation system, an impressive premium audio system or perhaps a stylish
spoiler.
MSRP: $14,615 *NEW CAR BLUE BOOK VALUE: $14,396
2009 Pontiac Vibe
The hot-looking Pontiac Vibe has always delivered a very cool
combination of affordability, versatility and fuel economy. Compared with
its predecessor, the new-for-'09, second-generation Vibe boasts a sportier
look inside and out, more powerful engines and even a lower starting price.
MSRP: $15,895 *NEW CAR BLUE BOOK VALUE: $15,895
2008 Scion xB
The original "box on wheels" grew rounder, larger and more powerful for
2008, but the xB remains a distinctively styled non-conformist. Cool
standard features include steering-wheel mounted audio controls, iPod
integration and a choice of three wheel designs for instant customization
at the dealership.
MSRP: $16,270 *NEW CAR BLUE BOOK VALUE: $16,351
2008 Subaru Impreza
With 170 horsepower, all-wheel drive and a double-wishbone rear
suspension, the Subaru Impreza sedan adds a sporty and capable touch to our
cool car selections. The five-door variant has a similar base price and
suits those in need of more cargo room for their active lifestyles.
MSRP: $17,640 *NEW CAR BLUE BOOK VALUE: $17,375
2008 Suzuki SX4
This is the second year in a row that Suzuki's small crossover has made
our list of cool cars under $18,000. In addition to a sporty exterior and
roomy, stylish interior, the SX4 still has the distinction of being the
least expensive all-wheel-drive vehicle sold in America.
MSRP: $15,395 *NEW CAR BLUE BOOK VALUE: $15,164
2008 Volkswagen Rabbit
The versatile and affordable Volkswagen Rabbit hopped its way onto our
list with its perky 2.5-liter engine, comfortable ride, sharp handling and
a level of interior refinement rivaling that of some much pricier vehicles.
MSRP: $16,250 *NEW CAR BLUE BOOK VALUE: $16,088
New-Vehicle Research Tools Available on Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com
-- Full expert reviews of new 2008 (and some 2009) model year vehicles,
including print and video
-- Pricing, specifications and information on optional features
-- Resale value information
-- Safety data
-- Rebates and incentives information
-- Side-by-side comparison tool
-- Consumer reviews and ratings
-- Photos and 360-degree views
-- Dealer price quote
For more information about the Top 10 Coolest New Cars Under $18,000,
visit http://www.kbb.com/coolcars08.
About Kelley Blue Book (http://www.kbb.com/sitemap)
Since 1926, Kelley Blue Book, The Trusted Resource(R), has provided
vehicle buyers and sellers with the new and used vehicle information they
need to accomplish their goals with confidence. The company's top-rated Web
site, kbb.com, provides the most up-to-date pricing and values, including
the New Car Blue Book(R) Value, which reveals what people actually are
paying for new cars. The company also reports vehicle pricing and values
via products and services, including software products and the famous Blue
Book(R) Official Guide. Kbb.com is rated the No. 1 automotive information
site by Nielsen//NetRatings and the most visited auto site by J.D. Power
and Associates eight years in a row. No other medium reaches more in-market
vehicle shoppers than kbb.com; nearly one in every three American car
buyers performs their research on kbb.com.
SOURCE Kelley Blue Book
IRVINE, Calif., April 29 /PRNewswire/ -- The expert editors at Kelley
Blue Book's kbb.com (http://www.kbb.com), the leading provider of new- and
used-vehicle information, today announce their picks for the Top 10 Coolest
New Cars Under $18,000. The vehicles that made Kelley Blue Book's 2008 list
of Top 10 Coolest New Cars Under $18,000 -- typically a gas-sipping bunch
-- arguably are cooler than they have ever been. More fun, more practical
and more amenity-laden than ever before, today's entry-level vehicles
deliver more than simply affordable and efficient transportation.
Versatility and technology are growing trends in the under-$18,000
segment. Eight of the cars on this year's list are flexible five-door
hatchbacks, or available as such. The collective options list includes
navigation, hard-drive music storage, voice-controlled iPod integration,
Bluetooth phone connectivity, push-button start and leather seating -- some
of which were introduced on high-end luxury cars just a few years ago.
"The vehicles on our Top 10 Coolest New Cars Under $18,000 list are
very fun to drive and feature-filled; first-time buyers and frugal
down-sizers have never had it so good," said Jack R. Nerad, executive
editorial director and executive market analyst for Kelley Blue Book's
kbb.com. "Manufacturers are finding ways to nicely equip their entry-level
vehicles while still keeping the price reasonably low, and consumers are
reaping the benefits more and more each year."
In choosing the 2008 list of Top 10 Coolest New Cars Under $18,000, the
kbb.com editors used the same set of criteria that many consumers use in
examining this category: safety, fuel economy, interior size, comfort,
technology, the vehicle's fun-to-drive-factor, as well as the decidedly
subjective "cool" factor. The editors compiled the list of qualifying
vehicles using Kelley Blue Book's New Car Blue Book Values, which reflect
real-world transaction prices and provide a more useful comparison point
than Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP). Every vehicle on the
list can be purchased for less than $18,000
Top 10 Coolest New Cars Under $18,000
Vehicle MSRP New Car Blue
Book Value
2008 Ford Focus $15,280 $14,942
2008 Honda Fit $14,585 $14,585
2008 Jeep Patriot $16,055 $15,894
2008 Mazda3 $17,230 $16,799
2008 Mitsubishi Lancer $14,615 $14,396
2009 Pontiac Vibe $15,895 $15,895
2008 Scion xB $16,270 $16,351
2008 Subaru Impreza $17,640 $17,375
2008 Suzuki SX4 $15,395 $15,164
2008 Volkswagen Rabbit $16,250 $16,088
Vehicles are listed in alphabetical order. New Car Blue Book Values
represent transaction values, or what others are actually paying for this
vehicle. The listed New Car Blue Book Values were taken from kbb.com during
the week of April 1, 2008. New Car Blue Book Values are updated weekly on
kbb.com. Adding optional equipment at the time of purchase will increase
the price of the vehicle.
Kbb.com Editorial Comments on the Top 10 Coolest New Cars Under $18,000
2008 Ford Focus
"Cool" might not be the first word that pops into your head upon seeing
the new Ford Focus, but don't judge this book by its cover. The Focus sedan
and coupe are the most affordable cars in which you can get the SYNC music
and phone integration system that allows you, for instance, to play any
song in your digital library simply by saying its name. That's cool.
MSRP: $15,280 *NEW CAR BLUE BOOK VALUE: $14,942
2008 Honda Fit
With gas prices on the rise, small cars like the Honda Fit are gaining
in popularity. The Fit sips gasoline and offers the sportiest driving
experience available in an econo-car. Plus, the seats can be configured in
multiple arrangements, so it can easily hold things like your friends, your
gear or a medium-sized alpaca (according to a photo on Honda's Web site,
anyway).
MSRP: $14,585 *NEW CAR BLUE BOOK VALUE: $14,585
2008 Jeep Patriot
The Jeep Patriot has a classic look reminiscent of the departed Jeep
Cherokee plus a functional interior and a sub-$18,000 price tag -- even
when equipped with four-wheel drive. Combined with highway fuel economy up
to 28 miles per gallon, the Patriot delivers a cool mix of SUV-like
versatility and car-like efficiency for buyers on a budget.
MSRP: $16,055 *NEW CAR BLUE BOOK VALUE: $15,894
2008 Mazda3
On our list for the fifth year in a row and still in its first
generation, the Mazda3 is the current elder statesman of cool compact cars.
Available in four- and five-door layouts, the dynamic Mazda3 is responsive,
quick and stylish, but also comfortable, efficient and practical.
MSRP: $17,230 *NEW CAR BLUE BOOK VALUE: $16,799
2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
The Mitsubishi Lancer's aggressive, rally-inspired looks belie a
starting price of less than $15,000. The low cost of entry will leave many
buyers with enough extra cash to add cool options like a hard-drive
navigation system, an impressive premium audio system or perhaps a stylish
spoiler.
MSRP: $14,615 *NEW CAR BLUE BOOK VALUE: $14,396
2009 Pontiac Vibe
The hot-looking Pontiac Vibe has always delivered a very cool
combination of affordability, versatility and fuel economy. Compared with
its predecessor, the new-for-'09, second-generation Vibe boasts a sportier
look inside and out, more powerful engines and even a lower starting price.
MSRP: $15,895 *NEW CAR BLUE BOOK VALUE: $15,895
2008 Scion xB
The original "box on wheels" grew rounder, larger and more powerful for
2008, but the xB remains a distinctively styled non-conformist. Cool
standard features include steering-wheel mounted audio controls, iPod
integration and a choice of three wheel designs for instant customization
at the dealership.
MSRP: $16,270 *NEW CAR BLUE BOOK VALUE: $16,351
2008 Subaru Impreza
With 170 horsepower, all-wheel drive and a double-wishbone rear
suspension, the Subaru Impreza sedan adds a sporty and capable touch to our
cool car selections. The five-door variant has a similar base price and
suits those in need of more cargo room for their active lifestyles.
MSRP: $17,640 *NEW CAR BLUE BOOK VALUE: $17,375
2008 Suzuki SX4
This is the second year in a row that Suzuki's small crossover has made
our list of cool cars under $18,000. In addition to a sporty exterior and
roomy, stylish interior, the SX4 still has the distinction of being the
least expensive all-wheel-drive vehicle sold in America.
MSRP: $15,395 *NEW CAR BLUE BOOK VALUE: $15,164
2008 Volkswagen Rabbit
The versatile and affordable Volkswagen Rabbit hopped its way onto our
list with its perky 2.5-liter engine, comfortable ride, sharp handling and
a level of interior refinement rivaling that of some much pricier vehicles.
MSRP: $16,250 *NEW CAR BLUE BOOK VALUE: $16,088
New-Vehicle Research Tools Available on Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com
-- Full expert reviews of new 2008 (and some 2009) model year vehicles,
including print and video
-- Pricing, specifications and information on optional features
-- Resale value information
-- Safety data
-- Rebates and incentives information
-- Side-by-side comparison tool
-- Consumer reviews and ratings
-- Photos and 360-degree views
-- Dealer price quote
For more information about the Top 10 Coolest New Cars Under $18,000,
visit http://www.kbb.com/coolcars08.
About Kelley Blue Book (http://www.kbb.com/sitemap)
Since 1926, Kelley Blue Book, The Trusted Resource(R), has provided
vehicle buyers and sellers with the new and used vehicle information they
need to accomplish their goals with confidence. The company's top-rated Web
site, kbb.com, provides the most up-to-date pricing and values, including
the New Car Blue Book(R) Value, which reveals what people actually are
paying for new cars. The company also reports vehicle pricing and values
via products and services, including software products and the famous Blue
Book(R) Official Guide. Kbb.com is rated the No. 1 automotive information
site by Nielsen//NetRatings and the most visited auto site by J.D. Power
and Associates eight years in a row. No other medium reaches more in-market
vehicle shoppers than kbb.com; nearly one in every three American car
buyers performs their research on kbb.com.
SOURCE Kelley Blue Book
..........
04-29-08, 08:55 PM
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04-30-08, 05:47 AM
#9
Lexus Champion
can't but one under $18K
that said....
looks terrible IMO ---> 2008 Ford Focus $15,280 $14,942
econobox -->2008 Honda Fit $14,585 $14,585
looks terrible IMO ---> 2008 Jeep Patriot $16,055 $15,894
long-in-the-tooth-->2008 Mazda3 $17,230 $16,799
kinda cool --->2008 Mitsubishi Lancer $14,615 $14,396
looks terrible IMO ---> 2009 Pontiac Vibe $15,895 $15,895
looks terrible IMO ---> 2008 Scion xB $16,270 $16,351
2008 Subaru Impreza $17,640 $17,375
econobox -->2008 Suzuki SX4 $15,395 $15,164
kinda cool with 18" --->2008 Volkswagen Rabbit $16,250 $16,088
that said....
looks terrible IMO ---> 2008 Ford Focus $15,280 $14,942
econobox -->2008 Honda Fit $14,585 $14,585
looks terrible IMO ---> 2008 Jeep Patriot $16,055 $15,894
long-in-the-tooth-->2008 Mazda3 $17,230 $16,799
kinda cool --->2008 Mitsubishi Lancer $14,615 $14,396
looks terrible IMO ---> 2009 Pontiac Vibe $15,895 $15,895
looks terrible IMO ---> 2008 Scion xB $16,270 $16,351
2008 Subaru Impreza $17,640 $17,375
econobox -->2008 Suzuki SX4 $15,395 $15,164
kinda cool with 18" --->2008 Volkswagen Rabbit $16,250 $16,088
Last edited by bagwell; 04-30-08 at 05:50 AM.
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