Which is the cheapest and best car?

Question

I need to buy a car and I don't have much idea about cars. All that I like when I drive are - All power features, cruise control and rest of the basic features. I saw few used cars below 8000$ but, was not really happy with the used ones. May be I should buy a new one.

I want the one which is economical, cheap - something between 12 to 15k. I like Altima but it is expensive for me.

Please suggest me options. Are Nissan Sentra, Versa etc are good options? Most of them lack the power features. I am in New Jersey.

Answer 1

Check out Car Talk

http://www.cartalk.com/menus/info.html

They test drive cars and post reviews

Answer 2

Honda Civic. Enough said. Check out any reviews, I don't think there's a negative review about a Civic.

Answer 3

Go used and you can get much more car for your money. You could get a used Altima, Maxima, or Accord in the $12-15K range. h**l you can get a used Lexus in that range.  

Answer 4

1. Honda Fit (base) - $15,385

2. Mazda 3i Sport (sedan) - $17,205

3. Hyundai Elantra SE - $17,945

Answer 5

Go with a Toyota Yaris anywhere between 13800, and 16000 depending on wether or not you want Automatic or Manual and they have a hatch back and a sedan.  Least overall cost of ownership, if you take into account maintainence, fuel, and trade in value if you ever want to upgrade.  

Answer 6

Smart car should be for you then, and it's exactly in you're price range  

12k to 15k