The best cars for the 99% are going to be the ones that most closely match our qualities as people – hard working, economical, smart, and focused on comfort. The average American these days wants a car that is flexible and practical, but because this is America, where driving is an experience; we want a car that is fun to drive and that we feel encapsulates our personality. Fitting all of that into a decent car payment is no small task, but here are the cars that are suited for us hardworking, hard-playing 99%.
Top Pick in Best Cars for the 99%: Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
First of all, let’s talk about the awards: the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport (configure a new Outlander now) won US News’ Best Car for the Money 2011: Best Compact Crossover. That particular award is tabulated by factoring in various reviews of the car, along with data on the five-year cost of ownership, ensuring that the car is well regarded and reasonably cost-efficient. It’s frugal meets fun, so to speak. The Outlander Sport is one of the great cars for the 99% because it’s base price is beyond reasonable, a base MSRP of $18,500, but it has the capacity to seat 5 and gets an estimated 25/31 MPG city/hwy. That’s like a healthy family dinner – good for you and easy on the wallet. Bonus points for the Outlander for having features that your kids will love like a panoramic glass roof and navigation with real-time traffic, which means never again getting stuck bumper-to-bumper with angry toddler passengers. Score.
First Runner-Up in Best Cars for the 99%: Hyundai Elantra Touring
Kelley Blue Book called the Hyundai Elantra Touring (configure a new Elantra now) one of the top 10 coolest new cars under $18,000, but we know that it takes more than cool to be one of the best cars for the 99%. Although, cool helps, in fairness. The coolest thing about the Elantra Touring? It’s staggeringly affordable price. At a base MSRP of around $16,000 for the GLS, you’re looking at a 5-seater vehicle that is price-competitive with some of the compacts on the market. And when prices are competitive, it’s the average Josephine Buyer that winds up winning. 23/30 MPG estimated city/hwy makes the Elantra a practical choice, but it’s the sleek lines and sophisticated styling that makes it a fun one. Reviewers have been raving about Hyundai’s upscale looks for a bargain price, and as a budget fashionista myself, I can attest to how difficult a line that is to toe. I say well done to the Elantra’s balancing act.
Second Runner-Up in Best Cars for the 99%: Chevy Traverse
You have to admit it when you see this car: the Chevy Traverse (configure a new Traverse now) is a handsome fellow. And not that good looks are the only thing to consider when contemplating cars for the 99%, but affordable should not be dowdy, IMHO. You can look good without paying a fortune, which makes you look smarter anyway. Economical is the new luxury, and the Traverse certainly fits that bill. Available in AWD or front-wheel drive, you can customize this car for your terrain, not to mention your taste with options like rear-parking assist and a Bose sound system. It’s like a little living room on wheels for you and your family, and considering those summer road trips and holiday drives to grandma’s, comfort and enjoyability is paramount. The Traverse is a stylish alternative to a small minivan or an SUV, because it’s spacious, but without being massive. And really, reducing your footprint and considerately leaving room for others on the road is really what being one of the 99% is all about.
