Mazda 2

As one of the last remaining Mazdas designed under Ford management, the tiny 2 does not benefit from Mazda’s recent Skyactiv technology and design revolution that makes the 6 and the 3 so great. Still, the little five-door hatchback is fun to toss around and has a clean—if modestly equipped—cabin. Its 100-hp 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine won’t set your heart ablaze (especially with the automatic) and several competitors get better fuel economy, so check out other cars before settling on the 2.