April7
Kelley Blue Book has announced a list of the “ten coolest cars under $18,000.” According to the buying guide, they are:
- 2007 Toyota Yaris: TBA
- 2006 Scion xB: $15,524
- 2007 Dodge Caliber: $15,985
- 2006 Kia Sportage: $16,134
- Chevrolet HHR: $16,472
- Ford Fusion: $17,084
- 2006 Nissan Frontier King Cab: $17,179
- 2006 Mazda3: $17,860
- 2006 Honda Civic: $17,860
- 2006 Scion tC: $17,960
KBB also provided some commentary on each car:
Toyota Yaris
“With a long history as a best-seller in Europe, the Toyota Yaris migrates to the U.S. as the least expensive vehicle in the Toyota lineup. Sporting unusually cool styling, Toyota quality and a 34/city and 40/highway MPG rating, the Yaris’ value more than exceeds its under-$12,000 starting price.”
Scion xB
“The xB has proven to us that, these days, it’s cool to be square. Not only does its slab-sided styling set it apart, but its boxy dimensions also mean this diminutive and fuel-efficient vehicle is a surprisingly commodious hauler of people and stuff.”
Dodge Caliber
“Caliber changes the small-car game by offering a larger, more flexible interior filled with way-cool features like an air-conditioned storage bin to keep drinks cold, rear speakers that flip down to project outward from the open tailgate, a 110-volt outlet for powering small electronics and a self-charging flashlight.”
Kia Sportage
“When buying your first SUV, bang-for-the-buck is a very cool thing to find. Pricing out the Kia Sportage is almost fun when you get to include a sunroof, a great stereo and a tire pressure monitor all for under $16,500.”
Chevrolet HHR
“As cool as the 1940s-style exterior is, the Chevrolet HHR is equally cool for its efficient use of space and worthwhile features like remote start and the increasingly requisite iPod connector. It offers hauling ability like a compact SUV, yet it handles like a car.”
Ford Fusion
“Size does matter, so getting a well-styled, contemporary midsize sedan with the roominess and comfort of the new Fusion is cool. Even better is the unexpected level of equipment for the price, including remote keyless entry, tilt steering wheel and cruise control.”
Nissan Frontier
“Utility is in, and nothing’s more utilitarian than a pickup. The Frontier backs up its sharp styling with excellent ride and handling.”
Mazda3
“Available as a hatchback or sedan, the Mazda3 is a deft one-two punch to the compact-car segment. We can’t decide which model we like better, but the combination of fine driving dynamics, upscale interior and arresting looks make this a ‘cool cars’ list repeater.”
Honda Civic
“You know how U2 were cool, then in the mid-90s they weren’t so cool, and now they’re as cool as ever? Well, the Civic has traveled a parallel path to regain its stature as arguably the finest economy car ever built—and cool once again.”
Scion tC
“If you’re cool enough to appreciate it, the slick styling and fashionable features in the tC deliver ‘Lexus-like’ technology in an affordable package. This year, the improved audio features stand out, including steering-wheel gauges and iPod connectivity.”









According to the source (kbb.com) 6 out of the 10 listed here are wrong. Better check that.
There is no Fusion, Caliber, Frontier, Yaris, Civic or Sportage.
But the Focus, Element, Cooper, Mazda3, Tiburon, and Cobalt are on the list.
I like how they said under 18K not under 20K. If they did the Pontiac Sostice would be the coolest car on the list.
Clearly the Tc is the class of this list.
Niki: Our local Poncho dealer has a SALE sign in the window of a white Solstice: $28,900. …it’s been sitting there for over a month now. Take a look how well the top does-not fit. Then look at one with the front plate on it: Ooooops! Someone in the design department forgot most states mandate them.
jim
DaveO: The data was just released. It’s new.
OK, what’s on the site are the 2005 models. Thanks.
On that list I would have to pick the Mazda3 or the tC.
I would have to go with the Civic. The new design is great!
Hell yea on the Yaris making the list, we need to make our voices heard since noone else in the US knows what a Yaris is even lol. Go Yaris!! We even have a yaris club made called yarisworld, its here: http://www.yarisworld.com
Sigh
I wouldnt really call any of these cars particuly cool.
Maybe becouse its under 18K
but i wouldnt buy any of them
Since I was one of the first to buy a Yaris (before they were cool) I think that means that I am wayest cool.
Another site Yaris Site which is cooler I think..
Http://www.yarisowners.com/forums
Has anyone seen the electronica music ad?Wow,is that funny.