8 Cars to Match Your New Year's Resolutions

There's nothing more hopeful than setting a New Year's resolution. It represents a fresh start, a chance to leave behind old habits and move in a new direction.

Alas, most people abandon their New Year's resolutions after a month or two, but you don't have to be most people. You can give your resolutions staying power by making lifestyle changes that support them.

One such change can be your next car. If you're in the market for a new one, you can choose a vehicle that bolsters your intentions for the new year.

Here are eight of the most popular New Year's resolutions, and a car that supports each one. We've included the vehicle's base price, including destination charges.

1. Get in Shape: 2017 Subaru Forester

One great way to get fit is to spend more time doing things you enjoy outdoors. Whether it's biking down a rocky slope or navigating a creek in a kayak, you'll work up a sweat if you indulge your inner weekend warrior.

The 2017 Subaru Forester is a perfect ally for this. Standard all-wheel drive and 8.7 inches of ground clearance ensure the Forester is up for tackling wilderness adventures. Ample cargo capacity and available roof rails accommodate your gear. The Forester is just as impressive in more civilized environments (a trip to the gym, for example), providing strong fuel economy and a long list of useful safety features. Pricing starts at $23,470.

2. Beef Up Your Savings: 2017 Nissan Versa

OK, so buying a new car is not, on its face, a way to save money. But if you have to buy a car, what you purchase can really make a difference.

With a base price of $12,825, the 2017 Nissan Versa is one of the most affordable new cars on the market. Though this Nissan is a subcompact sedan, it offers a generous backseat that's a comfortable space for adult passengers. If you choose a model with the continuously variable transmission, the Versa will reduce your fuel costs by offering superlative mileage: 34 mpg combined (31 city/39 highway).

3. Devote More Time to Your Family: 2017 Chrysler Pacifica

Many of us spend more time at the office than we do in the company of our loved ones. But we all know that you need to focus on family relationships if you want them to thrive.

New for 2017, the Chrysler Pacifica minivan is perfectly equipped to encourage family togetherness. Whether you're shuttling your star athlete to a Little League game or taking a road trip with the entire brood, the Pacifica will impress you with roomy accommodations and an upscale environment. Its list of available features is extensive and includes an in-vehicle vacuum cleaner. Pricing starts at $29,590.   

4. Reduce Stress: 2017 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Sedan

Let's say you work hard, and you're very well paid for your 18-hour days and aplomb with frantic customers, demanding clients and savage competitors. That kind of stress can suck the joy out of life, but there are ways to defeat it. It helps to find things to appreciate in the present moment.

One vehicle that facilitates this zen approach is the 2017 Mercedes-Benz S-Class sedan. The S-Class offers comfort, refinement and a generous list of pampering luxury features. For example, the front seats are available with a massage function that adds heat for a hot-stone effect. This spa on wheels has a starting price of $97,525.

5. Go Green: 2017 Chevrolet Bolt

Most of us realize it's important to support the well-being of the planet. From recycling to taking a more minimalist approach to consumption, the choices you make affect Mother Earth.

And that goes for the car you drive, too. Electric cars such as as the 2017 Chevrolet Bolt don't emit the greenhouse gases that contribute to global climate change. The Bolt is able to travel for up to 238 miles between charges; that range is double what you'll find in similarly priced electric vehicles. The Bolt rewards your green awareness by giving you brisk acceleration and ample features. Base models start at $37,495.

6. Volunteer More: 2017 Toyota Prius

Giving back brings many benefits. It allows you to support a charity you believe in, and it can help you meet new friends who share your causes and concerns. 

The 2017 Toyota Prius offers everything you need to for volunteer activity. There's generous cargo capacity that's useful whether you're taking meals to the elderly or transporting toys to children in need. It provides comfortable ride quality and a spacious cabin. Best of all, the Prius achieves fuel economy of 52 mpg combined, and this will help you save money at the pump if your volunteer work requires lots of driving. Pricing starts at $25,550.

7. Enjoy Life to the Fullest: 2017 Porsche 911

The 2017 Porsche 911 is your go-to car for pleasure-filled living. With its remarkable handling, it has the chops to turn every commute into something extraordinary. Additionally, the 911's cabin is a great place to be, with premium materials and appealing design. Base models begin at $90,450.  

8. Fall in Love: 2017 Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio

If your goal is to find an object of affection, we'd suggest the new-for-2017 Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio. With pricing that starts at $73,595, this sexy Italian charms with a sharp exterior and memorable performance. If you're more interested in forging a love connection with someone of the human persuasion, the Giulia Quadrifoglio can help there as well. Everyone looks more attractive when they're behind the wheel of a stunning European sports car.