This comparison looks at the smallest and least-expensive sedans sold in the United States, which fall into the compact and subcompact distinctions.

The seventeen 2007-model economy cars in this group have the following equipment, except where otherwise noted: an automatic transmission, 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 with traction control, and air conditioning.

Excluded from this comparison was the Mitsubishi Lancer; as of this writing, only 2006 models are available, which throws off price comparisons. The Lancer finished in 13th place of 15 cars in the previous IFCAR economy sedan comparison and will be redesigned next year anyway.

The basic function of vehicles in this class is to provide basic transportation comfortably, efficiently, and economically, and most of the vehicles in this group seem to achieve the basics of value, comfort, and fuel 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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Note: For reviews of the hatchback and station wagon versions of some of these cars, most of which are more practical than these sedans for a similar price, see the IFCAR Subcompact Wagon and Compact Wagon comparisons.