6 American Cars Worth Buying Now

MoneyWatch.com: American Car Companies Are Finally Making Stylish, Reliable and High-MPG Vehicles

(MoneyWatch.com)  This story, by Jim Motavalli originally appeared on CBS' Moneywatch.com.

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American car companies say they're retooling and - finally! - making stylish, reliable, high-mpg vehicles. So maybe you're thinking it's time to buy American for the first time in years.

Wait, you're not? Consider this: The most recent J.D. Power and Associates' auto satisfaction study shows American-made cars ranked only five points down from imports ... on a 1,000-point scale. And a new 2009 customer satisfaction survey from the University of Michigan put three U.S. brands (Cadillac, Buick and Lincoln-Mercury) in the top five.

Below, we've listed six models from the Not-So-Big Three and U.S. electric car start-up Tesla. The first four are family cars; the others are luxury models. Two of the 2010 models are in showrooms now - both of them Fords - while the other 2010s will arrive later in September.

Before you start shopping, two caveats for you to keep in mind. First, unexpected demand from Cash for Clunkers has left some automakers short of inventory, so you may need to wait for a few popular models. Second, you may find manufacturer cash bonuses hard to come by: Many apply only to 2009 models, which carmakers are still trying to unload, and some are available just in certain regions.

We based our picks on reliability research, value for your money, and on-the-road test drives. And we practically guarantee that one of them will surprise you. Read on for details.

Ford Fusion

Why you should consider it: This mid-size sedan is fun to drive - especially with a manual transmission. It's a fine family car; it's also one that doting parents will feel confident handing over to college-bound kids. In our driving tests, the Fusion felt taut and rattle-free. A four-cylinder engine is standard, but the optional V-6 versions are smooth and responsive. (Traction control would be particularly helpful on the V-6s.) The Fusion hybrid, which combines a four-cylinder engine with an electric motor for 191 horsepower, offers 39 mpg overall, surpassing the Toyota Camry Hybrid.

The reviewers say: "Upon its debut [in 2006], the Fusion's spacious cabin, responsive driving dynamics and attractive styling made it competitive, but there were a few missing elements.... A thorough refresh for 2010, however, addressed those elements, elevating the Fusion to elite status among midsize family sedans." -Edmunds.com

And Consumer Reports, notoriously hard on domestics, calls the Ford Fusion "not only one of the very best cars produced by Detroit, but one of the best mid-sized sedans made by any company."

Price check: The Fusion starts at $19,270. Incentives include $1,000 in cash rebates plus zero percent financing on 2010s, and as much as $3,500 back on 2009 models. There are no incentives on hybrids.

Fuel economy: 22 city/31 highway (Fusion S); 41 city/36 highway (hybrid)

Drawbacks: The rear seat does not fold down in the hybrid version, which also has a smaller trunk to accommodate the battery pack.

Chevrolet Malibu

Why you should consider it: The Malibu has moved upscale. The new, sophisticated Euro-styled sedan is an affordable family car that doesn't require you to make a lot of compromises. If not quite a sports sedan, it offers enough performance to satisfy buyers who'd rather not be seen in a minivan.

There are four Malibu trim levels, from base LS to luxury LTZ, and four-cylinder and V-6 versions. But even the barebones models come with most features buyers want, including satellite radio. In our driving test, the Malibu was quiet and refined - two qualities that have often eluded American carmakers. Fit and finish has been a Detroit bugaboo, but the Malibu had no noticeable loose panels, wide gaps, or rattles.

The reviewers say: "Our staff has been impressed with the Chevrolet Malibu. Priced considerably less than a comparably equipped Accord or Camry, the Malibu's combination of handsome looks, a spacious and well-finished cabin, competent performance and a quiet ride finally gives Chevy a serious player in this tough segment." -Edmunds.com

Price check: The Malibu starts at $21,605; 2009 models have rebates of $1,500 or zero percent financing.

Fuel economy: 22 city/30 highway (LS)

Drawbacks: Don't expect Audi-level handling. The Malibu is made for Middle America and it's no sports car.

Chrysler Town & Country

Why you should consider it: Though minivans draw horrified reactions from some suburban snobs, their space is much more efficient and comfortable than most SUVs. Chrysler knows what little kids like: The Town & Country has swiveling seats that let the second and third rows face each other (with a table in the middle), and rear-seat entertainment systems to let the kids watch Wall-E with wireless headphones. The Town & Country comes in seven trims - have it your way - and can be ordered with front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive. We like the standard 3.3-liter V-6 engine because it provides plenty of power, but you can move up to a somewhat thirsty 3.8-liter V-6 for more horsepower. Although the Toyota Sienna and Honda Odyssey are worthy alternatives, the Town & Country offers alluring cash incentives.

The reviewers say: "The latest hauler from the company that invented the minivan in the early 1980s, the Town & Country is Chrysler's best and most sophisticated yet." -Forbes

Price check: $26,415 (LX), plus up to $4,500 in cash incentives - or zero to 2.9 percent financing plus $1,000 cash on 2009 models.

Fuel economy: 17 city/25 highway (3.3-liter LX)

Drawbacks: May not be as reliable as a Toyota or Honda minivan, but Chrysler's track record has improved.

Ford Escape Hybrid

Why you should consider it: This is undoubtedly the best-performing, most fuel-efficient small SUV on the market. Updated in 2008, the Escape Hybrid now features a host of standard safety improvements, including a "spotter mirror" to see around blind spots, a MyKey system that lets parents limit the car's top speed (and audio volume) when their teenagers drive, and electronic stability control. In our road tests, the Escape Hybrid handled better than many crossover SUVs and moved seamlessly between electric and gas-engine mode. The vehicle also features the "traffic-light auto-stop," which shuts the gas engine down until you lift your foot off the brake - a useful option that helps the Escape Hybrid achieve excellent fuel economy. Just skip the power-robbing all-wheel-drive - it's an unnecessary, expensive ($1,750) option.

The reviewers say: "Escape's fuel efficiency, attractive price and spacious interior will give buyers who still want the looks and capacity of an SUV an appealing alternative to the flood of curvy little crossovers." -Detroit Free Press

Price check: $31,500.

Fuel economy: 34 city/31 highway (front-wheel-drive version)

Drawbacks: Styling is somewhat dated and cabin noise is a little high.

Cadillac CTS

Why you should consider it: Moving to the luxury category, this entry-level sports sedan is your kind of car if you love driving and relish a livelier morning commute. The spritely CTS has an efficient, responsive, direct-injected V-6, coupled to a six-speed automatic. The high-performance CTS-V comes with a 6.2-liter supercharged V-8 engine. And Caddy owners are happy owners; in that University of Michigan customer satisfaction survey, Cadillac tied with Lexus for first place.

The reviewers say: "Cadillac CTS continues to compete with the best from Mercedes and BMW with a distinctly American approach, boasting some of the top tech features in its class." -The Car Connection

Price check: $36,730, up to $3,000 cash back on 2009 cars and zero percent financing is also available.

Fuel economy: 18 city/27 highway (base V-6); 12 city/18 highway (CTS-V)

Drawbacks: Front seats may be uncomfortable for some, and the gas mileage is weak if you're just driving around town.

Tesla Roadster

Why you should consider it: OK, so this $109,000, two-seat, plug-in electric sports car isn't the most practical auto around. But it may be the most joyful, eye-catching car on the road. (We drove the '09; the '10, with a more efficient electric motor and some useful interior upgrades, looks like it'll be even more fun.) It's got a celebrity pedigree, too: George Clooney, Matt Damon, and Leonardo DiCaprio all own one.

The 248-horsepower Roadster uses no gasoline; it runs on a lithium-ion battery and comes with a 220-volt charger for your garage. Like the Lotus it's based on, the Roadster offers pin-sharp handling and powerful Brembo brakes - not that you'll need them often, since the regenerative braking slows the car down as soon as you lift your feet.

But the big attraction is laugh-out-loud rapid acceleration, going from zero to 60 in under four seconds). With the top off (is there another way to drive it?), the Roadster serves up a symphony of wind noise, motor hum, and cooling fan whir. The 2010's add-ons include built-in WiFi cards that allow Internet access and OnStar-type interactivity with the Tesla mothership. The biggest challenge for prospective buyers may be taking a test drive: There are only eight U.S.-based dealerships, six of which are on the
coasts.

See the Tesla test drive here

The reviewers say: "In the end, the Tesla Roadster does exactly what it promises: It offers the first green alternative to gasoline sportscars. It provides kick-ass all-electric performance in a classic, almost primitive two-seater drop-top: maximum driving pleasure with minimum eco impact. The fact that it's in production at all is one giant step for motorkind." -The Car Connection

Price check: $109,000, or $129,000 for the Roadster Sport. Incentives include a $7,500 federal tax credit for electric vehicles; some states and localities have their own perks for electric buyers. (One example: Electric vehicle owners park for free in New Haven, Conn.)

Fuel economy: N/A, but a 220-volt garage charge takes 3.5 hours (eight hours on 110 house current).

Drawbacks: A cramped cabin and no storage to speak of. You'll probably need a second car.

More on MoneyWatch:

• What's the Best Car for Your Teenager?

• The Best Time to Buy a Car Is ... Right Now

• 6 Big Myths About Gas Mileage

• Should You Buy a GM Car Today?

• Dealers Running Out of Cars

• Skip the Hybrid ... for a Diesel?

[Pisabonito]

The only thing wrong with the auto industry is the interference of government with all of their regulations. Instead of the market spurring innovation and research it's the government with the light touch of an elephant interferes with everything. Ford can't import their own European cars due to tariff regulations, how stupid can you get. We will see the Obamas of the world drive limos and the peons who pay their salaries be driving the little fodder Smart car. Personally I would not be caught dead in any of these small cars now mandated by the government.

[Aldymac]

All you people who are quick to accuse those you don't agree with of watching or listening to Beck or Limbauh seem to be watching and listening to them more than anyone else on these boards. I rarely watch TV and when I listen to a radio it's for the music. I don't even know where to find Beck or Limbauh on the radio, I prefer to think about an article I read for myself, not the ideas of radicles on either side of the article. What little hearing I have left from a mortar round in Nam I prefer to listen to something of beauty, and there is very little beauty coming from the liberal side of things.

[golfered2]

The GD UAW ruined the US car companies and we had to bail the bums out. Cars produced by the UAW (HIGHER WAGES) are crap and a waste of money. Let the companies go bankrupt!!!!

[hungry1968-16]

GM has 230,000 "foreign" production workers around the globe, and only 65,000 "domestic" production workers here in America.

The majority of the cars produced in these foreign plants, are then shipped to America.

So how in the hell are these considered to be "domestic vehicles"?




The Chevy Aveo is manufactured in South Korea, has ONE PERCENT American made parts in, and is shipped from SK to America. Don't believe me? Look it up yourself.

This is an "American car"?




No thanks - I'll keep my Toyota Matrix that was assembled in California, with 65% American parts. It's far more American than any GM or Ford garbage that's made overseas.

[geneonlbk]

The Chevy Volt has already become the new Edsel. By the time the Volt reaches market Honda will be selling a hydrogen car in California at half the price and other foreign manufacturers will be introducing other better priced and better engineered cars. The Zenn will hopefully reach market. America could loose the Bid 3 management and be better off.

[filmguy107]

I drive a Honda Accord. I currently have 166K miles on it, and fully expect to get 250K+ before I need to buy another car. Will the Ford Fusion last that long? When it is designed to have that kind of longevity, then we'll have a real car the can compete.

[hungry1968-16]

How can you tell if someone watches Fox News?


They vilify middle America, blue collar, ACTUAL American citizens, while defending the corporate multi-billionaires that led their companies into financial ruin.

And they do it, because their handlers told them to.

All while they themselves are in the middle class.

[woeisme1]

by jgg00000008 September 4, 2009 5:38 PM EDT
There should be no GM. And the money went to the UAW. And it was OUR money. If it were not for US there would be no GM.
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The ignorance of you republican extremists never ceases to grow even when I think you have peaked. Geeesh

Is'nt Glen Beck on?

[Aldymac]

You forgot to mention that those who got a car in the cash for clunkers had to pay tax on an inflated price to make up for the "discount" they got from the govt. The dealers still haven't got the CFC money they were promised. Obama must have been a used car salesman in the past, he sure sold a lemon to the American people.

[nextgenman09]

6 American Cars Worth Buying Now? They must have all been made before 1960.

[longtree-2009]

if you got the cash and a steady job without fears of losing it, then go for it and buy a new car. otherwise, why in the world would anyone want to go into debt in these economic times? barry is spending money and writing IOUs into the future with the IOUs being our future tax dollars. barry is out of touch with the majority of american citizens just like past presidents. not picking on barry as city, county, state governments and elected politicians are all out of touch with american citizens. it is any wonder that china is taking us over, little by little. everyone seems to fear the south american hispanics, the illegals, but it is china who we should fear most of all. china is a strong military, economic power that all of south america cannot even hope to match. sure go out and go into debt and make it easier for china to takeover the usa and the chinese flag will soon be flying over the white house. who would have thought a communist nation, china, would best the world's best democracy?

[dsnj1-2009]

Anyone who bought during the clunkers program ad really needed a car probably did get a good deal. Other than that, save your money, remember, we have to pay back trillions, so things are going to get alot worse. Save for retirement, becuase by the time we get there, there will be NOTHING.

[incog-nito]

You gotta be kidding. Except for the Tesla, these cars are same old, same old. And it's ludicrous to include the Tesla anyway, let alone call it "green". Nobody buys the Tesla because they want to save the environment. It's a niche car, most people can't afford it, and even if you can they're all sold out. It's stupid to even mention it as one of the "cars worth buying".

BTW, except for the Escape Hybrid, the other cars are nowhere close to "high-mpg". This article is a joke.

[start99]

Why al of a sudeen now? Where has this intention been all these years? Its sad our own has to drop a dime and start making efforts when it should have been happening years ago. Goes to show you someone has been lying and cheating the tax payers. Go figure...hello maybe one day we will make a quality automobile that wil have less recalls as opposed to the japanese or European ones.

[taxchurches]

I hope all of you Right-wingers plan to work through this 100% Socialist holiday weekend.

[retiredgustav]

Well put my friend.

[andejack]

"American" cars??? How can that be when the very recent reports re cars and trucks sold in the U.S. and having the greatest American content appeared to be primarily Toyotas and other "perceived" imports? I LOVE my Tundra (greatest America full size pickup content) and wonder what in the world has gone so whacky about the former reputable auto industry in the U.S. Couldn't have anything to do with the unrealistic, inflated, greedy values and aspirations of the mighty U.A.W. could it??

[FrankDenise]

I hate to say it but the American cars are junk..I bought a Chevy S10 pickup back in 2000 and had nothing but problems with it...I ended up trading it in with a little over 80000 miles to but a cheaper Toyota Corolla with MUCH better gas mileage...Now my Toyota has twice the mileage of the Chevy and it is still running like day one and has NEVER had a single problem...Hey look,the bottom line is that in todays world you have to do what is right for yourself and your family and if that means buying foreign so be it...No one here in America is gonna help me pay to fix my Chevy or pay me when I cant make it to work because my Chevy is on the side of the road again..This country cares more for the immigrants and third world nations than it does for its own that have lived and paid taxes here their entire life...And for the banks that never help us honest Americans either so the hell with them all..That is the way you have to think today...Just another stroke job from our wonderful leaders in Washington that cant ever get a thing right unless it is to benefit themselves......

[rightbehind]

I'm waiting for the Volt!

[debinok1]

After looking at the average mileage of these vehicles, I have to ask myself why I would put myself in debt for a car that gets fewer mpg than the one I already drive and it is paid for. As far as the Tesla, IMO, that is a house price NOT a car price. They still do not get it, the majority of people are trying to get back to basics, they are not splurging like they have for the last 20 years.

[mav547166]

So Caddys, Lincolns, and Buicks are in the top five. Why spend 50 grand when I can get the same thing for 25g to 30g from Toyota or Honda.