tonkatoytruck 5pts I have been leaning towards the Hyundai based on price, gas mileage, and features. The Honda keeps reminding me that reliability is also very important. The Elantra warranty makes the jump a little less frightful. The Focus does not have as good a price, reliability, or gas mielage until 2012. The Cruze Eco comes as a manual only (WAF) so that is out. Toyota is just too dull. I will try to post more after my Honda test drive.
timhood 5pts It looks like the Ford is the better driver's car, and if you want some more fuel economy, go with the auto (dual-clutch). The five-door is also the best looking by a significant margin. You'll have to pay a little more than the Hyundai feature-for-feature, but what price happiness? In TCO terms, the difference isn't much. Besides, if the GLS Elantra doesn't have all the features you want, you might be able to spec out a Focus the way you want for less than the Elantra's Limited model.Notice I forgot to mention the Civic. That's Honda's fault. It's all but forgotten in the new, competitive field. Honda, prodigal son, thou hast lost thine way. You're welcome back whenever you are ready.
pxr911 5pts Although the Civic has an edge on the handling over the Elantra--I would think the Elantra wins over the Civic as it is $2000 cheaper, offers more features (back up camera,6 speed auto, automatic headlights, proximity key,start stop button, heated rear seats, and of course a superior warranty to the Civic. I think most informed buyer would chose the Elantra over the Civic as it is clearly the better buy.