5 MOST RELIABLE SMALL CARS

Toyota Corolla (1966 - Present)

The compact Toyota Corolla has continually been one of the world's best-selling cars. This Asian compact sedan hit the American market in 1969, and 2007 models are still being produced. Reliability, fuel economy, as well as its low purchase price give this compact the edge over the competition.

9.8 out of 10

Chevrolet Geo Prizm (1988 - 2002)

First launched in 1988 as the Geo Prizm, this reliable sedan dropped the Geo brand name in 1998 when GM entered into a cooperative undertaking with Toyota for Prizm assembly. At this time, the Prizm underwent a comprehensive revamping, including strengthened crash protection crumple zones. The result produced a sedan that is bigger, lighter, safer and more powerful than its prototype. Under the skin, the Prizm became a virtual clone of the Toyota Corolla. The last Prizm rolled off the production line in November of 2001.

9.6 out of 10

Honda Civic (1972 - Present)

The Honda Civic is available as a compact sedan, coupe, or hatchback. This little gas sipper was first introduced in 1972, offering 40 miles per gallon of fuel efficiency and room for four passengers. Since then, Honda has expanded in size and model types. Honda released the Civic Hybrid in 2003, featuring gas-electric hybrid technology to increase fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. The Civic is still rolling and makes for a great used car buy.

9.5 out of 10

Subaru Impreza (1993 - Present)

Subaru introduced all-wheel drive passenger cars to America in 1993, with the release of the Impreza. For the first time, this automaker offered America a full-time 4WD sedan with conventional interior and exterior design. Subaru chose to launch the 2.5 RS in 1998, a sedan that was influenced by the company's road rally legacy.

In 2002, the Impreza model base expanded with the release of the WRX. 2002 also saw Subaru cease manufacture of the 2-door Impreza, offering only a 4-door sedan or station wagon. The WRX STi was added to the production line in 2004. Both the 2.5i and the WRX models will continue to roll off the assembly line for 2007.

9.4 out of 10

Toyota Prius (2000 - Present)

In 1997, Toyota released the first mass-produced gasoline-electric hybrid in Japan. Toyota put the Prius on the U.S. market in 2000, and since that time, it has become the best selling hybrid vehicle in the United States and the world. Toyota introduced Synergy Drive, the automaker's gas-electric hybrid powertrain technology, in the 2004 Prius.

9.4 out of 10

Toyota Echo (2000 - Present)

A relatively new vehicle, the Toyota Echo began U.S. production in 2000, offering Americans a passenger car with one of the best fuel efficiency ratings out there. Initial purchase price and the Echo's fuel economy, combined with its smooth ride and reliability, make this economical car a great purchase option.

9.4 out of 10