Yahoo Autos 
Coolest cars under $18,000
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Thanks to the ever-decreasing cost of technology and improved manufacturing techniques -- not to mention cutthroat competition -- it's easier than ever to find a relatively inexpensive car that's still looks good while being fun to drive and good on gas.
The experts at Kelley Blue Book have selected these as their favorites among the lowest-cost new cars.
1) Dodge Dart
Base price: $15,995
Fuel economy: 25 City / 36 Hwy
The new Dodge Dart, based on engineering from Italy's Fiat Group, earned the top spot in Kelley Blue Book's estimation. Besides being fun to drive, KBB says, it also has ample interior space and can be readily personalized to suit your changing moods.
2) Hyundai Veloster
Base price: $17,300
Fuel economy: 28 City / 40 Hwy
The three-door Veloster is an interesting combination of sporty coupe styling and family car practicality. Well, almost family car practicality. The backseats aren't exactly capacious but they're big enough to keep kids comfortable while the crisp steering and suspension should keep the driver happy, too.
3) Fiat 500
Base price: $15,500
Fuel economy: 30 City / 38 Hwy
The 500 is a cute little car and it's surprisingly comfortable, at least for front seat occupants. It's available as a convertible, too, with a top that can be peeled back even at highway speeds.
4) Mazda3
Base price: $15,200
Fuel economy: 25 City / 33 Hwy
The sporty and efficient Mazda3 has become a standard feature in this annual list. For the 2012 model year, an optional SKYACTIV engine provides fuel economy estimated at 40 mpg on the highway. (Fuel economy figures shown are for the standard engine.)
