Car and Driver has released their 10 Best Cars for 2008. Here are the winners, including the number of times each vehicle has made the list:
2008 BMW 3-Series (17)
2008 Cadillac CTS (1)
2008 Chevrolet Corvette (14)
2008 Chevrolet Malibu (1)
2008 Honda Accord (22)
2008 Honda Fit (2)
2008 Mazda MX-5 (9)
2008 Mazdaspeed 3 (2)
2008 Porsche Boxster/Cayman (9)
2008 Volkswagen GTI (3)*
As a guy from Detroit, it’s sad to see only 3 domestic vehicles on the list, with General Motors as the only American manufacturer represented. It’s great to see the resurgence of GM, but it seems like Ford and Chrysler have a long way to go. Also noticeably absent from this years list is Toyota.
The full Car and Driver Article can be read here.
The Suzuki Reno comes available in three packages: Base, Convenience Package, and Premium Package. Small bonuses like the rear-windshield wiper and a power tilt-and-slide sunroof make the Reno a “stylishly fun” car to drive. The 2.0-liter 4-cyclinder engine provides just enough power to complete with the other vehicles on our list. MSRP: $13,599 - $16,149
Redesigned for 2008 the Ford Focus has been a very reliable vehicle with zippy performance and a nice list of featured to boot. The theme for the 2008 is “from Techno to Techie”. The Focus’ new Sync system allows you to sync up all your bluetooth devices, cell phone and iPod. The interior and exterior have been redesigned for a totally new look. MSRP: $13,535 - $17,550
The Fit is Go! is the war cry of this pint-sized (but big on features) number. AC is standard, as is the 2nd-row “Magic Seat” that folds flat into the floor to create more than 41 cubic feet of cargo space. Supportive seats and a cleverly designed dash provide for an enjoyable driving experience. MSRP: $13,850 - $15,970
The Mazda3 delivers probably the best overall driving experience of all the vehicles on our Top 15 Under 15 list. The 2.3-liter 156-hp engine delivers more power, but slightly worse fuel economy than others in its class. The MAZDA3 offers the performance, sophistication and safety you’d expect from much more expense vehicles. The MAZDA3 is available in 4 models with either 4 or 5-doors. MSRP: $13,895 - $19,895
Introduced by Dodge in 2007, the Caliber combines crossover styling with performance and cargo space. The Caliber is safe, boasting a 5-star frontal crash test rating from NHTSA, and comes standard with a 1.8-liter 148-hp engine that gets good fuel economy - 28mpg city / 32 mpg highway. Good visibility and sophisticated design make the interior feel much more rich that the Caliber’s great low price. MSRP: $13,725 - $19,920
Completely redesigned for 2008, the Lancer comes in 3 body styles, the DE, ES and GTS. Equipped with a standard 2.0-liter, 152-hp engine that achieves 21-mpg in the city and 29-mpg on the highway - not the best fuel economy compared to others in its class. Speed and styling enthusiasts alike will enjoy the Lancer’s sharp looks and fun upgrades such as the Sun and Sound package will make it a joy to drive. MSRP: $13,990 - $17,490
Available in both a wagon and sedan, the Suzuki Forenza rounds out our Top 15 Cars under $15,000. The Forenza comes standard with a 2.0-liter, 127-hp engine that enjoys 31 mpg on the highway and 23 mpg in the city. Excellent reliability and generous passenger room keep the Forenza in the race with its fresher-faced competitors. MSRP: $13,999 - $14,949