2012 Honda Insight

The Bottom Line: $19,000 (estimated)
Fuel Economy: 40 city/43 highway

The Insight was supposed to be a Prius-killer, but it hasn't worked out that way. Although it's a leading hybrid, the Insight's sales in August were a ninth of the Prius's. The Insight offers an attractive price point, an attractive design and excellent fit and finish, but it trails the volume leader in some areas, including fuel economy, ride, rear headroom and refinement. If the Prius is out of your price range, the Insight (not the two-seater with the same name introduced in 1999) is worth considering.

Related: The Honda Insight and 4 Other Best Used Cars Under $10,000