Because of the increasing cost of gasoline as well as the fast approaching of summer's busy driving season, consumers are becoming to be more economical when buying car. In connection to this, the NADAguides.com, a leading vehicle pricing and information website, announced on June 21 their Top Vehicles for Summer 2007.
According to the website, their choices make the grade when it comes to fuel efficiency, affordable purchase price and overall 'summer-driving-and-travel' appeal when traveling, towing, hauling or just merely enjoying the ride.
Their complete list includes the following:
Top New Hybrid -- 2007 Toyota Prius (60/51) MSRP: $22,175
A four-door five-passenger gas/electric hybrid car, the 2007 Toyota Prius is powered by a 1.5-liter 4-cylinder 110 horsepower gasoline engine mated with a battery-powered electric motor. It achieves the EPA estimates of 60 MPG City and 51 MPG Highway. Don Christy Jr., the president and CEO, NADAguides.com, said that aside from its quality fuel economy, the Prius offers larger passenger and cargo space than most of its rivals. He added that their site also appreciated the car's streak list of safety features plus the $22,175 MSRP (a deal compared to equally-equipped four-door sedans).
Top New Convertible -- 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata (25/30) MSRP: $20,585
Christy commented that this car offers stylish fun-in-the-sun driving, affordable low-priced tag and amazing fuel economy. They were particularly fond of MX-5 Miata's engine with fast revolution and its fascinating handling. Featuring 166 horsepower with the automatic transmission (170 with the manual), side airbags and ABS brakes, this car is available with a retractable hardtop.
Top New Truck -- 2007 Ford Ranger (24/29) MSRP: $13,970 (base 2WD model)
Christy said that it is indeed difficult to find a brand new vehicle that offers the uses of a pick-up truck with the efficiency as well as the affordability of a compact car. This is the reason why this car with 24 MPG City and 29 MPG Highway EPA estimates easily made it to their list. He added that the Ranger offers a great value to buy and own and excellent styling.
Top New SUV -- 2007 Jeep Compass (24/27) MSRP: $20,175 (base model)
With EPA estimates of 24 City/27 Highway, the 2007 Jeep Compass, according to Christy, gives a heck ride. The President/CEO said that they were stunned by the car's affordability, styling, and long list of standard equipment and safety gadgets. The Compass offers 172 horsepower 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine, ABS brakes and traction/antiskid control.
Top Minivan -- 2007 Honda Odyssey (17/24) MSRP: $25,645
According to Christy, the Odyssey features one of the best EPA ratings in the minivan category so it was their editors' favorite minivan with regard styling and ride. It features a 244 horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine.
Honda, co-maker of , built the 2007 Odyssey with a long list of comfort and convenience features that includes cruise control, keyless entry and a variety of power controls, front, side-body and side-head airbags, ABS brakes, and traction control.
N.A.D.A. Appraisal Guides (NADAguides.com) is the world's largest publisher of vehicle pricing and specification information regarding new and used cars, trucks, vans, SUVs, van conversions, limousines, classic and collectible cars, boats, RVs, motorcycles, snowmobiles, personal watercraft and manufactured housing. Throughout its 74-years in the industry, N.A.D.A. Appraisal Guides has earned the reputation as the honored authority for vehicle valuations.
