Winner: Mazda2
This result surprised me; I figured the Ford Fiesta had this one in the bag. But I can understand why readers would opt for the Mazda2. Though pricier than the Fiesta, the Mazda2 has cuter styling, more standard equipment and a more grown-up feel -- of all the finalists, it's the one that feels least like an inexpensive car. And you have to admire Mazda's engineering philosophy: Rather than fit a big, powerful engine, they pared down the weight so that the Mazda2 could make do with less. The Mazda2 is a classic case of sound engineering, and the voters recognized that.
How you voted:
- Mazda2: 48%
- Ford Fiesta: 22%
- Honda Fit: 13%
- Kia Forte: 13%
- Nissan Versa: 3%
Read review: Mazda2
