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Editors' Most Wanted
Editors' Most Wanted Vehicles for 2003

Most Wanted Coupe under $15,000

Honda Civic Winner: Honda Civic

The Civic nameplate continues as a best-seller in the small car segment, and for plenty of good reasons. The car has been a paragon of reliability, fuel efficiency and value for 30 years. In the last decade it has also become the symbol of today's young automotive enthusiasts, much like the '32 Ford and '55-'57 Chevy before it. For 2003 Honda continues to support its performance fan base with the Civic Si hatchback, but those seeking a more practical Civic can purchase a coupe or sedan in one of several trims. There's even a gas-electric hybrid Civic that can get over 50 mpg.


Honorable Mention: Ford Focus

When Ford replaced its Escort with the Focus the company wanted to create a "world car" that would offer a compact exterior, roomy and comfortable interior, spirited handling and segment-leading safety. The Focus succeeds on all counts, though excessive recalls dogged the early models. In the last two years Ford has expanded beyond the original sporty hatchback, comfortable sedan and utilitarian wagon. Now you can also get a five-door hatchback or a highly capable SVT Focus in both three- and five-door versions. SVT models include a potent 170 horsepower engine, six-speed transmission and special badging. Shopping on a budget? Focus.


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