It doesn't take an expert to whittle down a list of the cheapest new cars on the market right now––but would they be considered "cool"?
The brains behind automotive pricing guide Kelly Blue Book decided to find out. In order to pass their editors' "cool" test, the cars had to not only be fun to ride and own, but also priced at $18,000** or less.
Just wait till you feast your eyes on No. 1.
**Prices are based on Kelley Blue Book's Fair Purchase Price. The figure is for a base model with standard options, obtained from kbb.com on June 18, 2012.
2012 Volkswagen Jetta: $15,490
Consumer rating: 8.9 out of 10
Fun to drive: "For those hoping to combine the engagement of a manual with the convenience of an automatic, stop worrying; VW has done it for you.
The DSG (Direct Shift Gearbox) employs two clutches and steering-wheel-mounted shifters to provide the perfect blend of git-up-and-go, whether it's on the open road or stop-and-go." ––KBB
Stats:
-34 miles per gallon
-115 horsepower
2012 Scion iQ: $15,579
Consumer rating: 9.8 out of 10
Fun to drive: This might look like the typical two-door hatchback, but the Scion iQ is designed with enough room for a third passenger in the back. It's also equipped with a pretty cool accessory:
"You wouldn't think you'd get excited about a steering wheel, but the standard Scion iQ wheel has a fat, leather-wrapped rim, and angular contours that make it look like it came from a Ferrari. Nice." ––KBB
Stats:
-37 miles per gallon
-94 horsepower
2012 Kia Soul: $14,067 (Varies)
Consumer rating: 8.4 out of 10.
Fun to drive: With a 350-watt music system and a six-speed auto-transmission, the Kia Soul is a ride that's "both versatile and affordable," KBB says.
"Not only does it feature radical themes, such as an available hounds-tooth fabric interior and multi-colored backlit speaker grilles that pulsate to the music's beat (this feature can be turned on and off), it also is highly functional and just plain fun."
Stats:
-164 horsepower
-Not listed on KBB but AutoGuide estimates the Soul gets 27 to 34 mpg
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