2008 MAZDA3

Like the Jetta, the Mazda3 is another car that feels richer than its compact size suggests. Here the emphasis is on sportiness, not all-out luxury, but the dashboard's contrasting textures look suitable enough. The Grand Touring trim's perforated leather seats feel exceptionally rich for a $20,000 car, and with this trim you'll also get seat heaters and automatic climate control. Plus, Mazda's 2.3-liter engine should prove snappy enough to make it to work by 9.