A whole herd of intriguing small cars is on the horizon.

2011 Chevy Cruze

On sale: Spring 2010

For decades, words like "unloved" and "slow-selling" have preceded any mention of a Chevrolet compact car. For example, the upcoming 2011 Chevrolet Cruze is designed to replace the unloved and slow-selling Cobalt this fall. However, if initial impressions hold true over the long term, the Cruze could replace those adjectives with "desirable" and "hot ticket." Why? Because the Cruze achieves several objectives. First, it's fantastically fuel-efficient thanks to a 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that will get an estimated 40 mpg on the highway—numbers usually reserved for diesel-powered cars. Second, it looks good inside and out, lacking the cheapness that seemed to permeate all of Chevy's previous compacts, starting with the Vega. Third, it should cost about the same as the inexpensive Cobalt. Finally, it's roomy, with Chevy boasting that the Cruze brings midsize practicality to the compact segment. Put it together and it spells "potential winner."