Five small cars for the budget minded.

I admit, I'm pretty picky when it comes to a new or used car. While it has to be affordable, I'd like it to have a little flair as well. Something I can live with for a few years before I decide to make a major purchase ... like a brand spanking new car. However, it does seem like the options are limited when it comes to keeping in the, say, $15K range. This article is simply an honest opinion on my top cars I'd pick for the average car buyer in the market. They range from simply cheap, to inexpensive and fully featured.

5) 2008 Kia Rio (Automatic, $10K in good condition)

If you're not concerned about looks or handling or performance, the Kia Rio is a good choice. In fact, this is solely for the budget minded. It's got decent space inside, decent trunk space, and decent engine. It moves, it stops, and returns a respectable 38 MPG average. I'd really recommend this car only if you're concerned about saving money at the pumps and on your insurance. Also, if you're in the the market for a small, four door compact, this is a good choice. You'll love the savings.

4) 2008 Toyota Yaris S (Automatic 3 door, $12-14 K in excellent condition)

The Toyota Yaris was introduced a few years ago, to replace the dismal Echo. It's a very European feeling car, mostly because it was sold in Europe and Japan before being sold here. It's a very capable car, though it does feel a bit cheap. It's very solid, though. It doesn't feel as small as it looks; the Yaris 3 door boasts impressive legroom and cargo room, all in a very nice package. The 'S' model is fairly rare, but you'd be fine with the base model too. Expect about 35 MPG on a combined cycle.

3) 2009 Smart Fortwo Passion Coupe (Sequential, $12-15K in excellent condition)

Okay, okay. It's not nearly as practical as the other cars on the list, but, the Smart Fortwo is a great little city car. If you drive less than sixty miles a day, you'll love the fuel economy this car returns. It's spacious inside, with plenty of room to move around. The cargo room is decent, the 1.0L 3 cylinder engine is perfect for your city trips, and let's be honest, it's a fun little car. It makes you feel happy. The only kicker is that it requires premium fuel, but you'll save quite a lot of money at the pumps with this car. It has the safety and quality expected from Mercedes Benz.

2) 2011 Mazda 2 (Manual, about $15K new)

I recommend buying this car new, because it's a reasonable price. The overall package is very attractive; spacious, yet small, the handling is fantastic, and far better looking than the Fiesta. It will return about 40 MPG if you're careful. There's plenty of room for your friends, but they might feel a little cramped in the back seat, even in the five door model. However, you'll learn to love this car because of the smile it has on its face. It's just happy to see you when you walk out to the garage. If, though, you happen to want an automatic, it'll be slightly more expensive.

1) 2010 Scion xD (Automatic, about $13 to 15K in excellent condition)

This car might be considered a step down from the xB, when it comes to size, but it certainly isn't a step down in features. In fact, you'll find this funky hatchback to be well equipped, as all Scions are. It's 'mono-spec', meaning that everything you want in a new car is included, for no cost. The only choices you get are color, transmission, and wheel covers. This car makes sense for every aspect; legroom, fuel economy, style, performance, and quality. It's a well rounded choice for the budget minded person who wants some style. A best pick.