Editors' Most Wanted Vehicles for 2007

Sedan Under $25,000

Winner: 2007 Mazda 6

The 2007 Mazda 6 and Mazdaspeed 6 hold a special place among those who have driven them. While slotted in a budget-based glorified economy car segment, the 6 offers comfort, capability and class for a surprisingly affordable price. Fun to drive, with smooth power delivery from the automatic, the 6 features a slick-shifting manual transmission if you so choose. Design is simple and tasteful inside and out. Increasing the value proposition is the addition of more safety features, with antilock brakes, traction control and side curtain airbags now standard on every 6. Perhaps the only drawback to the 6 is the lack of oomph under the hood when compared with the competition. But if that's a problem, step up to the turbocharged Mazdaspeed 6.

Honorable Mention: 2007 Nissan Altima

Nissan has done its best to stick with the competition by reinvigorating the 2007 Altima both inside and out. This fourth-generation Altima has improved body rigidity and a redesigned suspension. It's still front-wheel drive, with two engines available: a 3.5-liter V6 with 265 horsepower and a 165-hp 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder. A continuously variable transmission comes standard, but Nissan offers a new six-speed manual transmission to boot. Nissan has improved the interior by using more soft materials and chrome accents. Affordable advanced features like Intelligent Key with push-start ignition, a Bluetooth hands-free phone system and a touchscreen navigation system with a rearview monitor round out this car as a real competitor in this crowded segment.