First Time Car Buying Guide

With an attractive restyled and appearance, the 2012 Rio looks more expensive than it really is. Exciting style and value at every turn help make the Rio an obvious choice for first time car buyers on a budget. You don't have to be a first time buyer to appreciate fuel ratings of 30/40 mpg, which are at the top of the subcompact class. An impressive 138 horsepower and a 10-year/100,000-mile warranty provide more substance to the Rio's uncompromising style.

Youthfully designed, the vibrant and fun 2012 Fiesta sedan is an excellent choice for first time buyers looking to get a lot for a little. The Fiesta SE sedan comes well-equipped and has a futuristic-looking cabin that is sure to be a hit with those who value design as well as function. Fuel economy ratings of 29/38 mpg will appeal to first and fifth-time buyers alike. The Fiesta's low base price lets you add packages that include Ford's SYNC system, which manages hands-free calling and your music with voice commands.

Those looking to make a stylistic splash with the purchase of their first car can't find a more unique vehicle than the aptly named 2012 Nissan Cube. Power is adequate and fuel efficiency ratings are good at 27/31 mpg, but what the Cube really brings to the table is spaciousness and far-out design. There are 20 different colors of mood lighting, a round shag carpet patch on the dash, and smooth, rippled lines running everywhere. With an impressive 58 cubic feet of storage space, the Cube can carry large objects most vehicles in this class can't.

Starting at a shade over $15k, the Honda Fit is the perfect compact car for first time buyers looking for versatility and efficiency. Let's start with the versatility aspect. You can fold down the rear seat for 57.3 cubic feet of cargo space (think bike), or take it a step further by folding down the front passenger seat for longer items (think skis and surfboards). You can even get creative by flipping one of the rear seats up to fit tall items (think plants). The Fit gets a healthy 28/35 mpg, making it affordable for first time buyers to put that cargo space to good use and get out of town.

We're guessing that the Elantra's incredibly stylish looks and surprisingly low price are just a few reasons why it was named the 2012 North American Car of the Year by a jury of 50 independent North American automotive journalists. Aside from looking great, the Elantra provides first time buyers with 29/40 mpg and 148 horsepower. Heated power side mirrors, a six-speaker sound system, XM Satellite Radio, iPod/USB auxiliary input jacks, and a 10-year/100,000- mile powertrain warranty are all standard. Safety is important to Hyundai, so it went out and earned Top Pick honors from the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety.

Named Best Compact Car for the Money by U.S. News and World Report, the 2012 Cruze offers all-around value starting with its best-in-class 10 airbags and cargo space (15.4 cubic feet). There are five total trim levels to choose from with only the base model slotting in under $17.5k. The base model receives excellent fuel efficiency of 26/38 mpg, comes with OnStar, and has a solid build quality that will appeal to first time buyers and seasoned buyers alike.

The all-new 2012 Toyota Prius c hatchback is the latest industry-leading hybrid and gets an outrageously awesome 53/46 mpg rating. The Prius c is great for first time buyers because of its low sticker price and low cost of fuel consumption. Based on data compiled by the EPA, the Prius c will burn through an estimated $1,150 of gas annually. The Prius c costs less than the original liftback model, making it a great buy for those looking to get their feet wet in the new car world.

It doesn't matter if you're a first time buyer or looking for your second car, the 2012 Focus hatchback appeals to everyone trying to save a buck. The redesigned Focus offers best-in-class interior materials, tons of interactive tech features, nimble handling, and a fresh and inspiring look. The SEL model has a base price of slightly over $20k, but Ford is usually generous with rebates and incentives that can bring the price under the $20k threshold. That's fortunate, because the SEL adds ambient lighting, dual-zone climate control, and the SYNC voice-controlled communications and entertainment system. Oh, and fuel efficiency is top-notch at 26/36 mpg.

First time buyers who have a family to consider or just want an affordable midsize sedan with sturdy craftsmanship will love the all-new 2012 VW Passat. Named the 2012 Motor Trend Car of the Year, the Passat was redesigned inside and out, while shaving nearly $7k off of its base price. The rear seat area boasts the most room in its class so you can fit children and friends with ease. Fuel economy estimates of 22/32 mpg are nice, as is the ample 170-horsepower engine. The overall quality and well-made feel of the Passat will attract drivers that appreciate an upscale feel.