Model Tested: 2017 Kia Niro Touring Engine: 1.4-liter 4-cylinder engine plus 43-hp electric motor, 139 horsepower, 195 lb-ft torque combined Transmission: 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, front-wheel-drive EPA Rating: 46-mpg city/40-mpg highway/43-mpg combined Base Price: $29,650 As Tested: $32,840 Performance: Very good fuel economy—our … read more

Model Tested: 2018 Kia Rio EX 5DR Engine: 1.6-liter I-4, 130 horsepower, 119 lb-ft torque Transmission: 6-speed automatic, front-wheel-drive EPA Rating: 28-mpg city/37-mpg highway/32-mpg combined Base Price: $18,700 As Tested: $19,725 Performance: Peppy engine Great fuel economy for a non-hybrid Our best was … read more

Model Tested: 2018 Honda Odyssey Elite Engine: 3.5-liter VTEC V-6, 280 horsepower 262 lb-ft torque Transmission: 10-speed automatic, front-wheel-drive EPA Rating: 19-mpg city/28-mpg highway/22-mpg combined Base Price: $46,670 As Tested: $47,610 Performance: Pleasant highway ride Nice handling, especially for a mini van Paddle … read more

Model Tested: 2017 Mazda6 I Grand Touring Engine: 2.5-liter I-4, 184 horsepower 185 lb-ft torque Transmission: 6-speed automatic, front-wheel-drive EPA Rating: 27-mpg city/35-mpg highway/30-mpg combined Base Price: $30,695 As Tested: $34,695 Performance: Integrated Skyactiv technology is more than a sales slogan—it really works … read more

Model Tested: 2017 Fiat 500 Abarth Hatchback Engine: 1.4-liter turbocharged I-4, 160 horsepower 183 lb-ft torque Transmission: 5-speed manual, front-wheel-drive EPA Rating: 28-mpg city/33-mpg highway/30-mpg combined Base Price: $19,995 As Tested: $22,975 Performance: Quick and nimble go-kart handling Darts through traffic Dual exhaust … read more

Model Tested: 2017 Fiat 500 Pop Hatchback Engine: 1.4-liter I-4, 101 horsepower 97 lb-ft torque Transmission: 6-speed automatic transmission, front-wheel-drive EPA Rating: 27-mpg city/33-mpg highway/29-mpg combined Base Price: $14,995 As Tested: $19,120 Performance: Excellent fuel economy; our best was 35.0 hwy Sport mode … read more

Model Tested: 2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI SE Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged I-4, 220 horsepower 258 lb-ft torque Transmission: 6-speed manual transmission, front-wheel-drive EPA Rating: 24-mpg city/34-mpg highway/28-mpg combined Base Price: $29,895 As Tested: $30,715 Performance: Outstanding driving fun with 6-speed manual Impressive torque Very … read more