hatchback Coupe/Hatchback

The Bottom Line: The 2007 Nissan Versa S is a car for those who are happy to get from A to B without GPS or MP3s. For better fuel economy and a more enjoyable all-around drive, we highly recommend the manual transmission.

Specs: hatchback, 1.8 S, Gas

The Bottom Line: Without many of the options our test car came loaded with, the 2007 Volkswagen GTI represents a very sporty car for a great price. But the added expense and the inferior cabin electronics drag the car down.

Specs: hatchback, Base, Gas

The Bottom Line: The extra push from the John Cooper Works kit doesn't seem enough to justify the premium it adds to the price of the 2006 Mini Cooper S Convertible. We would have been happy to shave the kit and some other options off and just enjoy driving with the convertible top down, which is already part of the base price.

Specs: hatchback, S, Gas

The Bottom Line: The 2007 Toyota Yaris is suitable for city errands and short commutes but few other applications. Good fuel economy is nice, but poor road conditions can easily upset this little car.

Specs: hatchback, Base, Gas

The Bottom Line: The 2006 Mini Cooper S is a ton of fun to drive and makes its mark with retro exterior and interior features. Besides an excellent-sounding stereo and an untested navigation system, cabin electronics are generally left to dealer options.

Specs: hatchback, S, Gas

Editors' Take: The 2006 Volkswagen GTI, with its 200-horsepower engine and DSG or manual six-speed transmissions, justifies Volkswagen's "Drivers wanted" tagline. Cabin appointments are good, though with some notable exceptions.

Specs: hatchback, Base, Gas

The Bottom Line: One of the best values we've seen, the 2006 Scion tC offers strong audio options and decent performance, but leg- and headroom are limited for taller people.

Specs: hatchback, Base, Gas

The Bottom Line: The Acura RSX Type-S makes the most of its technologically advanced engine, but it lacks gadgetry in the cabin.

Specs: hatchback, Base, Gas

The Bottom Line: The Honda Insight gets best-of-breed gas mileage, but its lack of digital comforts and cabin room constrains its uses.

Specs: hatchback, Base, Hybrid with CVT

The Bottom Line: Thanks to a seamless and sophisticated power system, the 2005 Toyota Prius delivers excellent gas mileage and comfort, making it the best hybrid on the road today.

Specs: hatchback, Base, Hybrid with CVT