This comparison looks at compact hatchbacks and station wagons, specifically those from the 2006 or 2007 model years with an automatic transmission priced below $20,000. A few vehicles that met the basic criteria but were not included were the Subaru Outback Sport (which is just a lifted Subaru Impreza that doesn't drive as well and costs more) and a number of smaller vehicles like the Honda Fit, Scion xB, Ford Focus ZX5, and Volkswagen Golf, which will be included in a separate comparison when the Nissan Versa and Suzuki SX-4 become available.

The thirteen vehicles in this group have the following equipment, except where otherwise noted: power windows, locks with keyless entry, and mirrors, cruise control, front seat torso and front and rear seat head-protecting side airbags, a CD player, antilock brakes, and air conditioning.

The basic function of vehicles in this class is to provide practical, inexpensive, and economical transportation, but the thirteen here go about this in a few different ways. Some try to disguise their practicality with their styling, others add premium qualities.

Most of the vehicles in this group seem to achieve the basics of value, practicality, and economy. Read on to see which ones really don't, which are the best values and which are overpriced, and which one delivers the best blend of virtues.

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