2009 Chevrolet Aveo5

This Aveo is an interesting vehicle. Unfortunately, the XFE Cobalt starts at $16,330 (plus destination) and returns better fuel economy on the highway (25 city/37 highway and a combined 30 mpg) and gives you a little more power. Since I drive mostly highway miles, I'd much rather fork over the extra cash and get a Cobalt.

Inside, the Aveo is a strange mix of cheap appointments and wood trim. The driver's side of the car doesn't have a grab handle, but there is a sunglasses holster where you'd expect one. I wonder how many of these will get ripped off by accident. Luckily the radio looks and sounds good and offers an auxiliary input. I'd love to know why there is wood trim in this thing; it's not like you're going to trick anyone into thinking this is a luxury ride.

If you just want a small car, the Aveo fits the bill. If you're looking to save on gas, there are several Chevrolet vehicles that offer better highway mpg numbers than the Aveo and give you more room.

Phil Floraday, Senior Online Editor