2009 Honda Civic 4DR EX-L Navi

Each time I drive the Civic, I am enamored of the whimsical blue-lit split-level gauges in front of me. That, and the low cowl and wide expanse of glass. They are touches that help explain why owning a Civic - for those who don't care about having a mind-bending driving moment - still feels like a special experience long after the new smell wears off.

This particular Civic is loaded with everything any fairly young, hip driver would want - navigation system, Bluetooth, MP3/auxiliary jack, serious stereo system, heated seats, leather trim, and on - in a sensible array. It gets killer fuel economy and is overstuffed with safety features. As we all know, Civics have legendary resale values, too, which makes the $24,000 price tag a bit easier to swallow. But make no mistake - there will be no mind-bending driving moments with this car.

Jean Jennings, President & Editor-in-Chief