2010 BMW 1 Series

Price Range: $29,150 - $40,350

Since 1975, the 3-Series had been BMW's entry-level car, but when BMW subsidiary MINI made such a big seller out of the MINI Cooper, the 1-Series was introduced to North America in 2008 to slot nicely just above it. It's a stylish coupe with an iconic style that competes directly with the Audi A3 and Volvo C30. The 1-Series gives first-time buyers easy access to a great tradition, and is the only vehicle in its class featuring rear wheel drive, a 50/50 weight balance, a longitudinally-mounted engine and an advanced aluminum multilink suspension. MSRP starts at $29,000. Mileage is estimated at 18 mpg city and 22 mpg highway.