Version: 2008
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Best affordable tech cars

(Nov 12, 2009)

Wayne Cunningham Wayne Cunningham
Senior Editor
When a car costs $100,000, you expect a cabin filled with the latest gadgets. The trick is getting good cabin tech in an affordable car, the kind that most people drive. We're very impressed when we see a navigation system in a car that costs less than $30,000. Good stereos make an appearance at many different price ranges. Sure, these cars often won't have all the tech you could want, but a few quality components make them true tech cars.

2010 Kia Soul

Although unimpressive to drive, the 2010 Kia Soul Exclaim offers practical interior space, a cool exterior, and a very capable stereo and phone system.

Price: $13,300.00 (check prices)

Review date: Aug 4, 2009

  • 3 stars

      Overall score: 6.6 (3.0 stars)

Good

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2010 Mazda Mazda3 s Grand Touring 5-Door

The 2010 Mazda Mazda3 s Grand Touring 5-door's cabin tech package is good, but not the best in the business. However, its performance and utility sit well above that of your average economy car.

Price: Sorry, pricing not available

Review date: Jun 17, 2009

  • 3h stars

      Overall score: 7.2 (3.5 stars)

Very good

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2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe 3.8 Track w/navigation

You would be hard-pressed to find a better everyday sports car at the 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe 3.8 Track's price, and cabin tech offers cutting-edge features.

Price: $31,000.00 (check prices)

Review date: Sep 30, 2009

  • 4 stars

      Overall score: 8.4 (4.0 stars)

Excellent

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2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart

An excellent car for weekend sport driving, the 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart loses it luster when stuck in traffic. Optional cabin electronics are of surprisingly good quality.

Price: Sorry, pricing not available

Review date: Aug 20, 2009

  • 4 stars

      Overall score: 8.0 (4.0 stars)

Excellent

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2009 Honda Civic Si

If you like a fun, fast ride, the 2009 Honda Civic Si will make you smile. With navigation, phone connectivity, and modern digital music sources, it also makes a practical daily driver.

Price: $21,905.00 (check prices)

Review date: Dec 17, 2008

  • 4 stars

      Overall score: 8.0 (4.0 stars)

Excellent

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2009 Suzuki SX4 Sport

The 2009 Suzuki SX4 Sport packs good performance, decent fuel economy, and a high level of cabin tech into an unassuming package, making it a great value for the relatively low price.

Price: $15,739.00 (check prices)

Review date: Dec 3, 2008

  • 3 stars

      Overall score: 6.8 (3.0 stars)

Good

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2009 Hyundai Sonata Limited V6

The 2009 Hyundai Sonata Limited brings the car maker into the tech world by offering good navigation and digital music options. It makes for a good commute car, but the V-6 might be too thirsty for today's gas prices.

Price: Sorry, pricing not available

Review date: Jun 26, 2008

  • 3 stars

      Overall score: 6.6 (3.0 stars)

Good

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