Top 10 Clunker Trade Up Sedans for 2009

Thinking about taking advantage of the government's "Cash for Clunkers" program, which can save you up to $4,500 on a new car? Not surprisingly, the most popular clunker trade ups are mid-sized sedans.

So far, Toyota’s Prius and Camry models are the best-selling clunker trade up vehicles, along with Honda’s Civic and Fit, Ford Focus, Hyundai Elantra and Chevy Cobalt.

And while those are all great cars, I have another list. As a road test warrior, I have driven each and every car below. So, here’s my Top 10 list of mid-sized sedans with overall good value for low price, lots of standard features, excellent performance, cool design, top safety marks, money-saving fuel economy and quality manufacturing.

The 2009 Suzuki SX4 has it all: low price, standard navigation, zippy performance, ergonomic interior, excellent safety and lots of cargo room. If you are seeking an all-wheel-drive vehicle for inclement weather, go for the Suzuki SX4 Crossover, which comes as a five-door hatchback model. Base MSRP: $13,299.

The 2009 Hyundai Elantra is an excellent overall buy as Hyundai is big on quality, performance, design, safety and deals. Yes, you may be able to cash in our clunker for a fuel-efficient Elantra and lock a year’s worth of gas at $1.49 per gallon.Base MSRP: $14,120.

The 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart is an often overlooked mid-sized sedan. But don’t sell this sexy sedan short as Mitsubishi has built in sports car DNA into this racy ride. Plus, the Ralliart’s exterior stands out in a sea of boring Euro sedans. The minimalist interior thrills even more as does the five-star safety and good fuel economy. Base MSRP: $26,490.

The 2009 Ford Focus has garnered much attention as one of the top-selling clunker trade up vehicles. Why? This sporty American sedan has all the bases covered: great performance, good design, fuel efficiency, excellent safety and Ford’s ingenious SYNC connectivity system. Base MSRP: $15,520.

The 2009 Honda Civic Hybrid is just a great car with its excellent fuel economy, great design, high safety marks, wonderfully zippy acceleration and overall excellent driving dynamics. Base MSRP: $22,600.

Why did I pick the 2009 Toyota Corolla over its Camry and Prius brethren? The Corolla surprised me on a recent road test with its super fast acceleration, tons of standard features, luxury amenities, fuel efficiency and Toyota’s legendary performance. Base MSRP: $15,350.

The 2009 VW Jetta TDI is one of VW’s best-selling models of the summer. And I know why. This clean-burning diesel vehicle is super fun to drive, has great exterior and interior design as well as excellent fuel economy. Plus, you may be eligible for a $1,300 tax credit. Base MSRP: $18,999.

Mazda just makes awesome cars, so I was thrilled when its 2009 MAZDA6 model lived up to my expectations. This mid-sized sedan has both sporty and smooth performance as well as a rather luxurious interior, top safety marks, good fuel economy and a handsome exterior. Base MSRP: $18,550.

I was highly impressed with the interior design of the 2009 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid. The interior cabin is rather luxurious, roomy and has great modern design. Plus, the hybrid engine is zippy and super quiet. Base MSRP: $25,925.

The 2009 Kia Optima is another great overall buy. This mid-sized sedan has lots of standard features, plus pretty good performance, nice design inside and out, top safety ratings and good fuel economy. Base MSRP: $17,495.

Sheryll Alexander is a lifestyles writer based in Costa Mesa, Calif.
Read more from Sheryll Alexander at Driving Smart.