Editors' Most Wanted Vehicles for 2007

Sedan Under $20,000

Winner: 2007 Honda Civic

Possibly the best vehicle in terms of value for the dollar, the Honda Civic offers a reliable, fuel-efficient and fun ride. A Civic Hybrid and natural-gas version are available for the extra environmentally conscious. The sporty Civic Si is offered for the first time in a sedan version and helped edge the Civic ahead of the Mazda 3 in our voting this year. Capable of 197 horsepower and 139 pound-feet of torque, the Si is a fun-to-drive budget sports car. All Civic trims are packed with safety equipment and standard features, and offer an impressive audio system with plug-ins for hand-held MP3 players. Civic interiors are roomy and comfortable with a futuristic two-tier dash design that keeps the analog tachometer in the traditional place but puts a digital speedometer above it at the base of the windshield.

Honorable Mention: 2007 Mazda 3

Last year's winner in the economy sedan category, the Mazda 3's fun and sophisticated manner belies its budget status. Its smooth engine, refined suspension, precise steering and solid brakes make it a real value. We like its smart good looks, too. Available with a choice of two strong engines, the "i" trim comes with a 148-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder motor while the "s" trim has a 2.3-liter inline-4 capable of 156 hp. All trims have surprisingly polished road manners that will make you forget you're driving an economy car. The Mazda 3 remains tightly controlled through curves and provides a lively daily commute.