Consumers' Favorites: Economy Cars

Running way out in front with 29 percent of the votes is the new 2011 Ford Fiesta, a versatile little car that also happens to be fun to drive. At 19 percent, the Kia Forte makes an impressive showing for the up-and-coming Korean carmaker. And taking 3rd place, just behind the Forte? Another Korean — the Hyundai Elantra at 17 percent.

See how the rest of the field did in the full results below and make sure to exercise your right to vote in our nextly Consumers' Favorites poll.

1. 

   1. Ford Fiesta

What Edmunds.com says:
The 2011 Ford Fiesta gives economy car shoppers reason to celebrate with its fun-to-drive personality, nicely trimmed cabin, tight build quality and unexpected features.

What Edmunds.com says:
Unlike the bargain-bin Spectra that it replaces, the new 2010 Kia Forte is good enough to compete against perennial segment stars from Honda, Mazda and Toyota.

What Edmunds.com says:
Even though the 2010 Hyundai Elantra is often overshadowed by more firmly entrenched competitors, its affordable price and relative refinement make it an ideal small sedan. It's worthy of serious consideration.

What Edmunds.com says:
The 2010 Toyota Yaris' dependability and wide variety of body styles give it broad appeal, but it falls short of being our top economy-car choice.

What Edmunds.com says:
Though it doesn't quite match other top economy sedans in terms of refinement, the 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer is a solid alternative that's more fun to drive thanks to its higher performance and sportier styling.

What Edmunds.com says:
The enjoyable and value-packed 2010 Hyundai Accent proves that an entry-level economy car needn't be a penalty box.

What Edmunds.com says:
The 2010 Suzuki SX4 certainly merits consideration if you're in need of an affordable all-weather vehicle or are just looking for an inexpensive but practical and feature-packed set of wheels.

What Edmunds.com says:
The 2011 Nissan Versa might not be the newest or most engaging choice in the economy car segment, but it still provides simple, spacious and inexpensive transportation.

What Edmunds.com says:
Besides the sporty SS model, the 2010 Chevy Cobalt trails the competition in terms of handling, rear-seat comfort, build quality and overall refinement.

What Edmunds.com says:
While the 2010 Kia Rio is attractively priced, there are a few other subcompacts we recommend more highly.

What Edmunds.com says:
Even though the 2010 Chevrolet Aveo is a decent and inexpensive subcompact, some competing models are simply more enjoyable to drive and own.