Economy cars have come a long way in the last few years. Here are some things that the experts say to consider:

  • Economy cars shouldn't feel too cramped. In theory, an economy car should be able to accommodate a minimum of four average-size adults without any serious problems. That's not to say they'll all be comfortable, but they should at least fit. Buyers should be aware, however, that small cars are geared more toward driver and front-passenger comfort than rear-passenger comfort. Check and compare the trunk space too.
  • Watch the options. Most economy cars are sold to younger drivers and first-time buyers, who may be lured by a bargain-priced sticker but find certain options too tantalizing to resist. Optional features can quickly add up, though, boosting price into the midsize-car range. It's a good idea to have an idea of your essential features before you start shopping, and consider these when you evaluate stickers -- one model may have lots of standard features at a higher starting price, but a cheaper car could end up costing more if those same features are only available as added-cost options.
  • Consider safety equipment. More manufacturers are adding standard safety equipment to their economy cars, but not all models are equal. Compare crash-test results and the safety specs of each vehicle to see if side airbags, antilock brakes and electronic stability control are included. Many economy cars don't come with these features, and a handful don't even offer them as options.
  • Compare fuel-economy ratings. Economy cars are less expensive to buy, and they should also be cheaper to operate than larger cars. Some small cars are more efficient than others, so it pays to compare. Know that higher fuel efficiency may also mean lower horsepower, so make sure you are satisfied with the car's general performance and potentially slower acceleration. While hybrid cars will offer better fuel economy, the higher purchase price of a hybrid often reduces the operating cost advantage. Many four-cylinder cars offer excellent fuel economy at a much lower price than a similarly sized hybrid.
  • Some midsize sedans or station wagons may be a better fit than a compact economy car. Take a look at our reports on station wagons and family sedans, both of which include cars starting at less than $18,000. Sedans and station wagons are more comfortable for families, and many get very good gas mileage.
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