With gas prices and environmental concerns reaching record highs at a time of moderate economic uncertainty, the vehicles that made our 2008 list of 10 Coolest New Cars Under $18,000 — typically a gas-sipping bunch — are cooler than they've ever been. More fun, more practical and more amenity-laden, today's entry-level vehicles deliver more than simply affordable and efficient transportation. They're fun to drive and feature-filled. First-time buyers and frugal down-sizers have never had it so good. Versatility and technology are growing trends in the under-$18,000 segment. Eight of the cars on this year's list are flexible five-door hatchbacks, or available as such. The collective options list includes navigation, hard-drive music storage, voice-controlled iPod integration, Bluetooth phone connectivity, push-button start and leather seating – some of which were introduced on high-end luxury cars just a few years ago. In choosing the 10 Coolest New Cars Under $18,000, we used the same set of criteria that many consumers use in examining this category. Safety, fuel economy, interior size, comfort, technology and fun-to-drive were all considered, as was the decidedly subjective cool factor. The list of qualifying vehicles under $18,000 was put together using our New Car Blue Book values, which reflect real-world transaction prices and provide a more useful comparison point than Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP). Every vehicle on the list can be purchased for less than $18,000. Here, in alphabetical order, is Kelley Blue Book's 2008 list of 10 Coolest New Cars Under $18,000:
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2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
The Mitsubishi Lancer's aggressive, rally-inspired looks belie a starting price of less than $15,000. The low cost of entry will leave many buyers with enough extra cash to add cool options like a hard-drive navigation system, an impressive premium audio system or perhaps a stylish spoiler.
2008 Ford Focus
2008 Honda Fit
2008 Jeep Patriot
2008 Mazda3
2008 Mitsubishi Lancer
2009 Pontiac Vibe
2008 Scion xB
2008 Subaru Impreza
2008 Suzuki SX4
2008 Volkswagen Rabbit

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