Starting MSRP: about $20,300

While Subaru's Forester featured more of a wagon design in the past, the current generation of the Forester is larger and priced right, making it a strong competitor in the compact SUV segment.

The five-seater features standard all-wheel drive and comes with a choice of two engines: a 170-horsepower, 2.5-liter four-cylinder or a 224-horsepower, 2.5-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder. Standard safety equipment includes antilock brakes, electronic stability and traction control, active head restraints, front- and side-impact air bags for front-seat occupants and side-curtain air bags with rollover sensors for both rows of seats. Standard comfort and convenience features include tilt steering, a 60/40 split-folding rear seat with center armrest and an MP3 input jack.