Model Tested: 2017 Mazda6 Grand Touring Engine: 2.5-liter I-4, 184 horsepower 185 lb-ft torque Transmission: 6-speed automatic transmission, front-wheel-drive EPA Rating: 27 mpg city/35 mpg highway/30 mpg combined Base Price: $30,695 As Tested: $34,530 Performance: Responsive, fun to drive Paddle shifters Regular and … read more

Model Tested: 2017 Mazda3 Grand Touring 4-Door Engine: 2.5-liter I-4, 184 horsepower, 185 lb-ft torque Transmission: 6-speed automatic, front-wheel-drive EPA Rating: 27 mpg city/36 mpg highway/30 mpg combined Base Price: $24,195 As Tested: $27,930 Performance: Sport mode noticeably improves performance Paddle shifters Heads … read more

Model Tested: 2017 Kia Soul! Exclaim Turbo with Tech Package Engine: 1.6-liter turbocharged I-4, 201 horsepower, 195 lb-ft torque Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch automatic, front-wheel-drive EPA Rating: 26 mpg city/31 mpg highway/28 mpg combined Base Price: $22,650 As Tested: $27,620 Performance: Strong, turbocharged engine … read more

Model Tested: 2017 Mitsubishi Mirage G4 SE four-door sedan Engine: 1.2-liter 3-cylinder, 78 horsepower 74 lb-ft torque Transmission: CVT automatic, front-wheel-drive EPA Rating: 35 mpg city/42 mpg highway/37 mpg combined Base Price: $16,995 As Tested: $17,830 Performance: Impressive fuel economy for a non-hybrid … read more

Model Tested: 2017 Hyundai Elantra Limited Engine: 2.0-liter I-4 gas, 147 horsepower 132 lb-ft torque Transmission: 6-speed automatic, front-wheel-drive EPA Rating: 28/City—37/Highway—352Combined Base Price: $22,350 As Tested: $27,710 Performance: Smooth highway ride Very pleasant on long trips Outstanding fuel economy for a non-hybrid … read more

Model Tested: 2016 Honda Accord Sport Engine: 2.4-liter I-4 gas, 189 horsepower, 182 lb-ft torque Transmission: CVT automatic transmission, front-wheel-drive EPA Ratings: 26 city, 35 highway, 30 combined Base Price: $25,965 As Tested: $26,785 Performance: Smooth, quiet engine Very pleasant city and highway … read more