Best Car for the Money 2011

Perhaps auto manufacturers are beginning to understand that most shoppers are looking for value, for the best car that they can buy for the money that they have budgeted. To some extent this is a subjective choice because different purchasers will weight car characteristics differently, depending on what is most important to them. With that said, here is a guide to some of the best choices for 2011.

Ford finally got the Fiesta right and it is the best subcompact car for the money. AutoWeek calls it "as good a small car as can be found, sourced from anywhere in the world." And the best compact car for the money is the Honda Civic. It is available in 7 different models in perhaps the most competitive category in the industry.

American cars are represented on this list by the Chevrolet Malibu as the best midsize car and the Buick Regal as the best upscale sedan for the money. The best value in sports cars is clearly the venerable Mazda MX-5 Miata, the car that brought the sports car craze back to America when it was first introduced years ago. And the best hybrid for the money is also an experienced player, the Toyota Prius.

Looking for a great deal on a wagon? Then look no further than the Hyundai Elantra Touring.  The Korean manufacturer has been getting a lot of good press on its growing line and consumers are beginning to embrace their cars. Another Korean car choice for best value in a minivan is the Kia Sedona.

When it comes to value in big trucks or SUV's, America still rules the roost. And the bow tie brand is the big winner here. The Chevrolet Traverse is the best midsize crossover for the money and the Chevrolet Tahoe ranks number one in value as the best full size SUV. But if you step up to luxury in this category, check out the Infiniti EX and the Lexus RX350 for best luxury crossover and best midsize crossover respectively.

For you truckers, the Suzuki Equator is the best buy for the money in the compact category and the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 ranks number one in value in the full size category.

You should also check out our guide to finding affordable auto insurance and, if it applies to you, our guide on buying a car with bad credit.