2009 Suzuki SX4

Base MSRP $13,299

The fun-to-drive SX4 is a standout among small cars on many counts and ranks by almost any assessment as a very strong value for the money. The Crossover still ranks as the lowest-priced car in the U.S. market with all-wheel drive, and now electronic stability control is also standard on it. What's more, the SX4 has a standard navigation system, at a time when navigation systems still aren't offered on most of the small cars in the SX4's price range. And as with the rest of the Suzuki line, warranty is a strong selling point in itself; coverage includes a 100,000-mile/7-year/no-deductible powertrain warranty that can be transferred to subsequent owners.