VOLKS VOGAN JETTA SE

Premium features like one-touch power windows and mirror-integrated turn signals are the stuff of big-league luxury cars, and they put the Jetta a cut above a Civic or Corolla. Our luxury choice is the Jetta SE, which gets a moonroof, 16-inch rims, a 10-speaker stereo and heated leather seats. OK, it's faux leather, but we doubt your passengers will notice. If they do, you can play the animal-rights card — just don't do it while you're waiting in line for your burger at the fast-food drive-through.