Top 10 Least Expensive Midsize Sedans for 2009

2009 Kia Optima

What we think
For the price, the Optima’s outstanding array of standard features can’t be beat. Power windows and locks, heated side-view mirrors and a six-speaker sound system are just a few of the niceties this low-cost car offers. The Optima has upped the power output of available engines this year, making the drive more enjoyable and competitive in the field. Armed with a five-star crash rating and Kia’s 10-year, 100,000-mile warranty, this midsize is an all-out contender

At a glance

At a glance

Engine and Drivetrain: 2.3-liter inline four-cylinder engine, 160 horsepower, 156 lb-ft of torque; 3.0-liter V-6 engine, 221 horsepower, 205 lb-ft of toque; 5-speed manual, 5-speed automatic, 6-speed automatic transmission; front-wheel drive with optional full-time all-wheel drive.

MPG: 20 city/29 highway (four-cylinder, manual), 20/28 (four-cylinder, auto), 18 /26 (V-6, auto, front-wheel drive), 17/25 (V-6, auto, all-wheel drive)

 4.  2009 Toyota Camry - $19,145

What we think

At a glance

Engine and Drivetrain: 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine, 158 horsepower, 161 lb-ft of torque; 3.5-liter V-6 engine, 268 horsepower, 248 lb-ft of torque; 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder hybrid engine, 147 horsepower, 138 lb-ft of torque; 5-speed manual, 5-speed automatic, 6-speed automatic transmission

MPG: 21 city/31 highway (four-cylinder), 19/28 (V-6), 33/34 (hybrid)

5.  2009 Mazda 6 - $19,220

At a glance

Engine and Drivetrain: 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder produces 170 horsepower and 167 lb-ft of torque; 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission; 3.7-liter V-6 with 272 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque; 6-speed automatic transmission

MPG: 20 city/29 highway (2.5-liter, manual), 21/30 (2.5-liter, auto), 17/25 (3.7-liter, auto)

6.  2009 Nissan Altima -  $19,900

What we think
At a price just shy of $20,000, the Altima wows with its standard features and powerful base model engine that produces 175 horsepower. Fit and finish in this sedan is top notch and exterior styling strays away from the bland bodylines adopted by some in this class. Drive quality is strong too, as Nissan continues its line of sporty cars. Rear legroom may not be as generous as others, but trunk space is still roomy enough for luggage for five.

At a glance

Engine and Drivetrain: 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 175 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque; 3.5-liter V-6 with 270 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, CVT automatic transmission or 6-speed manual

MPG: 23 city/31 highway (four-cylinder, CVT), 19/26 (V-6, CVT), 23/32 (four-cylinder, manual), 19/27 (V-6, manual)

7.  2009 Mercury Milan - $20,030

What we think

At a glance

Engine and Drivetrain: 2.3-liter inline four-cylinder engine, 160 horsepower, 156 lb-ft of torque; 3.0-liter V-6 engine, 221 horsepower, 205 lb-ft of toque; 5-speed manual, 5-speed automatic, 6-speed automatic transmission; front-wheel drive with optional full-time all-wheel drive.

MPG: 20 city/29 highway (four-cylinder, manual), 20/28 (four-cylinder, auto), 18/26 (V-6, front-wheel drive), 17/25 (V-6, all-wheel drive)

8.  2009 Pontiac G6 - $21,160

At a glance

Engine and Drivetrain: 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine, 164 horsepower, 156 lb-ft of torque; 3.5-liter V-6 engine, 219 horsepower, 219 lb-ft of torque; 3.6-liter V-6 engine, 252 horsepower, 251 lb-ft of torque; 4-speed automatic, 6-speed automatic transmission.

MPG: 22 city/30 highway (2.4-liter), 17/26 (3.5-liter, 3.6-liter)

9.  2009 Dodge Avenger - $21,255

What we think
With bold styling that stands out from the crowd, the Dodge Avenger’s body borrows heavily from the iconic Charger. Powered by a stout 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, the car’s 173 horsepower is enough to back up the aggressive exterior. Though a more powerful 3.5-liter V-6 and all-wheel drive are optional, the base model’s 21 mpg city and 30 mpg highway is well worth sacrificing for.

At a glance

Engine and Drivetrain: 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine, 173 horsepower, 166 lb-ft of torque; 3.5-liter V-6 engine, 235 horsepower, 232 lb-ft of torque; 4-speed and 6-speed automatic transmission; front-wheel drive with optional full-time all-wheel drive.

MPG: 21 city/30 highway (four-cylinder), 16 /26 (V-6)

What we think

At a glance

Engine and Drivetrain: 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine, 169 horsepower, 160 lb-ft of torque; 2.4-liter hybrid inline four-cylinder engine, 164 horsepower, 159 lb-ft of torque; 3.6-liter V-6 engine, 252 horsepower, 251 lb-ft of torque; 4-speed automatic, 6-speed automatic transmission.

MPG: 22 city/30 highway (four-cylinder, 4-speed), 22/33 (four-cylinder, 6-speed), 17/26 (V-6)