Great Cars If You’re On A Budget

Photo by dan-morris

2. Ford Fiesta

MSRP $15,755

The Ford Fiesta offers nimble, fuel-efficient fun at a reasonable price. Two engine choices are available for the Fiesta: a standard 120 horsepower four cylinder, and an optional 123 horsepower turbocharged three cylinder. A five-speed manual is standard and a six-speed automatic is optional, although the automatic is a bit clunky when shifting. The suspension is well built, giving the Fiesta a smooth, quiet ride. The Fiesta gets a respectable 31 mpg city and 43 mpg highway, so you spend less time at the pump and more time behind the wheel. The standard features include cloth seats, Sync voice control for audio and Bluetooth, and cruise control. For an additional $290 the Comfort package can be installed, which adds heated front seats and mirrors, plus automatic climate control.