5TH: 2008 Mini Cooper – $18,050 base price
Even the base Mini Cooper is all about fun. You only need to wind the car to redline once to really appreciate it, not because it’s going to thrust you into your seat, but because it’s just so willing to rev. The short-throw manual is fun to shift, the handling and steering are precise, and the fuel economy is actually outstanding. So why is it in fifth place here? Because Mini recommends premium fuel for its little wagon.
Annual Fuel Cost
$2,024
City/Highway/Combined
28/37/32 (with a six-speed manual transmission)
Expert Rating:
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