5 of the Best New Cars for 2009

Taking a look at the best new cars for 2009 can leave you a little bewildered. What might be the best car in one person's opinion might not be the same for another. Cars are rated for their fuel efficiency, reliability, appearance, features and of course cost. They are also subdivided into several categories from sub compacts to hybrids and everything in between. Using the reports in U.S. News and World Reports, this is a look at the best to come for 2009.

· 2009 Honda Fit: This car has been rated as the best in the subcompact class for its overall ratings. The interior design offers plenty of head and leg room for taller people and the redesigned seats make it much easier to transport those bigger packages. A well performing power train that gets 27/33 mpg, matched with Honda's usual outstanding reliability make this a great choice for 2009. Prices start at $14,550 MSRP depending on location and option packages.

· 2009 Chevrolet Malibu: Redesigned for 2009 the Chevrolet Malibu tops the list for mid-sized cars. The spacious interior offers a quiet luxurious feel at an affordable price. Scoring well in the safety areas and driving pleasures as well makes this a great choice. Coming in at 22/30mpg with a base MSRP of 21,605, makes this the top of the midsized sedans for 2009.

· 2009 Toyota Avalon: Topping the list for an affordable large car, the Avalon offers a best in class interior space loaded with features. The most fuel efficiency in it's class, 19/28 mpg, coupled with Toyota's unbeatable quality and reliability, make this car a sure fire winner. With a base MSRP of $27,845 this one is a definite winner.

· 2009 Nissan 370Z: Everyone loves a sports car, and Nissan has been building great ones for years. The new 370Z for 2009 is no exception. It's more compact than its predecessor the 350Z, but more powerful with a 0-60mph time of less than 5 seconds. Equipped with a 3.7L V-6 and either a 6 speed manual or 7 speed automatic, this car should give even the Porsche Cayman a run for its money for considerably less. MSRP on this starts around $29,930 for the base model.

· 2009 Toyota Camry Hybrid: From the makers of some of the best built cars on the road today comes the top of the hybrids for 2009. Filled with what we have come to expect from Toyota as far as amenities and creature comforts, this car adds the extra benefit of being eco-friendly. Designed with the average city commuter family in mind, the Camry Hybrid offers an excellent fuel economy rating of 33/34 mpg while not sacrificing any quality or comfort. Starting at a base price of $26,150 not only makes this a good deal, but falls into the IRS tax rebate charts, saving you even more of your own green.

Every car manufacturer strives to be the best with each model they build. This is just a look at some of those cars, you should always do your research thoroughly before buying your new car. Combining the opinions of several people, with your own research and needs, will make sure that the purchase you make will be one that will give many hours of pleasant driving.

Sources: US News and World Report, Motortrend Magazine, JD Powers