Nissan Versa

From a fuel economy standpoint, the Nissan Versa is among the least efficient vehicles in the subcompact category. That is the compromise it makes for being bigger and more powerful than its competitors. But to keep perspective, its 26 city/31 highway EPA rating is still overall one of the best on the road. Combine those figures with the largest-in-class fuel tank at 13.2 gallons, and the Versa has an interstate cruising range of over 400 miles. That tops even the super-efficient Toyota Yaris.

As far as price goes, the Versa is pound-for-pound one of the best deals in the small car segment. With a base price of $13,355, it falls almost perfectly between the more refined Yaris ($11,960) and the more agile Fit ($14,585). It doesn’t offer the same level of standard features as the Fit, nor the style and efficiency of the Yaris, but it does grant more room, more power, and greater ride comfort than both. If these things are of highest importance to a buyer, then the Versa is hands-down the best choice. Also, keep in mind, Nissan build quality may not be considered on the same level as Toyota and Honda, but it’s the next best thing in the non-luxury car marketplace.