3. BMW Mini
Looking for a car that is fun to drive, yet is not a gas-guzzler or a hassle to park? Then the BMW-made Mini should be on your list. Yes, it's only a two-door, but it's surprisingly roomy on the inside.

The base model lists for less than $20,000 and can deliver as much as 37 mph with a manual transmission. One thing to beware of is adding a lot of options, which can significantly increase the price.

The turbocharged Cooper S is a blast, but there's a significant mileage and price trade-off.

4. Hyundai Azera
There was a time when I wouldn't have recommended a Hyundai to a friend -- there was a reason the brand needed that 10-year warranty. But many vehicles in the Hyundai stable are solid performers and the brand's quality ratings have improved significantly.

The Azera is a midsize sedan that's a good alternative to the segment leaders such as the Honda Accord and the Toyota Camry. The V-6 is flexible, delivering good power in all situations. The interior is a cut above what can be found in similar vehicles, especially those that cost less than $25,000. Fuel mileage is a reasonable 18 mpg city, 26 mpg highway.

5. Saturn Aura
If you crave a sedan that has a European feel to its ride, hustle over to your Saturn dealer. The Aura rides on a chassis modified from the one that runs under the superb Malibu.

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Opt for either of the optional V-6 engines and you'll get a vehicle that has sporty pretensions and yet won't drain your wallet at the pump. Mileage ranges up to 29 mpg in highway driving.

To get the full sport-sedan flavor, go for the XR model. If that's not to your taste, there's a hybrid version. List prices start at a touch over $20,000, but dealers are offering much better terms.

6. Honda Element
Your mother was right when she said looks aren't everything. That adage applies to the Element, which is boxy and ugly in a way that only someone looking for ultimate utility can appreciate.

Originally billed as a dorm room on wheels -- Honda had visions of 20-somethings virtually living out of their Elements -- the Element is the Swiss army knife of the automotive world. The interior can be swabbed out, which appeals to people with messy kids. With the rear seats removed, it can carry 75 cubic feet of cargo, making it an appealing alternative to an SUV.

The Element's four-cylinder, 166-horsepower engine delivers peppy performance, which makes you forget you're driving a tall box on wheels. The base price of less than $19,000 reminds you you're driving a bargain.