The 2008 Chevrolet Aveo 5 hatchback is largely a carry over from the previous model year. Known for being a fun drive with a more than acceptable ride quality and level of noise control, the Aveo is an excellent choice for daily, fuel efficient driving. Expect to get 24 miles per gallon around town and 34 on the highway for an MSRP of $10,030 to $12,015.

Hatchbacks are once again gaining popularity in the United States for their versatility in a small package. The Aveo 5 is powered by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder producing 103 horsepower with options for either a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic. As standard features occupants are protected by airbags in the front and side positions. If you want to spiffy up the interior go for faux leather on the seats, imitation wood trim, a powered moonroof, and a CD player. Otherwise, you'll get a comfortable but pretty practical cabin.

Obviously this is a no-frills choice (unless you go with the LT trim level) for people who need to do a lot of driving (think commuters) in a reliable, high-performance package. One particularly nice feature of the Aveo 5 is the high degree of visibility front and back. Some reviewers have found the seats to be uncomfortable and it would be nice if side curtain bags were standard, but still, this is a reasonably affordable, efficient little car -- not the absolute best, but a top contender in the genre from an old and reliable brand name.