That's why our vehicle class buying guides will give you a concentrated dose of car shopping advice specific to whatever vehicle class you're shopping for.
Each guide tackles a different vehicle class, explains the pros and cons of owning a vehicle in this particular class, points out features to look for, and suggests things to avoid. The "Consumer Guide to" guides make it easy for the shopper who knows what type of car they want and needs help selecting two or three they want to test drive.
In addition, the "Consumer Guide to" series helps a buyer focus on the type of vehicle that's right for their needs. Many consumers cross-shop between classes, and our class buying guides help consumers remain focused on the right vehicles.
| The Consumer Guide to 2010 Alternative-Fuel Vehicles | |
 We take a look at the traffic-ready electric vehicles you can buy right now or in the near future. The vehicles covered here aren't exotically priced and go faster than 25 mph. | |
In the market for better fuel economy? The Consumer Guide to 2010 Hybrid Vehicles breaks down all of your gas-electric hybrid vehicle choices on sale this year. | |
New-car buyers can select from among 36 2010 models that can run on E85, a blend of up to 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline. Choices include cars, minivans, SUVs, and pickup trucks. | |
 Dirty diesel is a thing of the past. Check out which automakers offer clean diesel models for 2010. |
| The Consumer Guide to 2010 Cars | |
Subcompact cars have enjoyed a popularity surge over the past two years, thanks in part to steep fuel prices and heightening environmental concerns. These vehicles are some of the most fuel-efficient and affordable cars on the market. | |
Compact cars make sense for many people because they offer so much for so little. Our buying guide will help you navigate through this crowded class. | |
The premium-compact-car segment is one of the hottest, most competitive classes. Use our buying guide to research your options. | |
For a blend of passenger and cargo space, affordability, fuel economy, and variety, no other single vehicle comes close to matching the midsize car. | |
These upscale machines come replete with posh, leather-appointed interiors, heated seats, superb stereo systems, and lots of technological gadgetry. | |
As a class, this seemingly traditional gathering of sedans appears misleadingly dull. With available all-wheel drive and V8 engines with over 400 horsepower, this segment is as compelling as ever. | |
If you're lucky enough to afford one of these cars, you'll be treated to a powerful, luxurious, and comfortable vehicle. Here's an overview of the 2010 premium-large-car lineup. | |
Consumer Guide's sporty/performance-car class probably contains the most diverse variety of vehicles: Performance hatchbacks, drop tops, and muscular coupes. | |
The cars that Consumer Guide classifies as premium-sporty/performance are at the top of the mountain when it comes to acceleration, handling response, and of course, price. |
| The Consumer Guide to 2010 SUVs | |
Looking for a vehicle that's small on fuel consumption but large on utility? Check out a compact SUV. Our buying guide breaks down what's offered in this class. | |
This class may be small in numbers now, but it is poised to explode during the next few years. Interested in luxury and utility in a tidy package? Check out this buying guide. | |
Consumer Guide classifies 29 vehicles as midsize SUVs. Our buying guide will help you find the right one. | |
Consumer Guide classifies 18 different models as premium-midsize SUVs. Use our buying guide to compare them all. | |
Consumer Guide's large-SUV class is made up of six vehicles. Whichever model you choose, all large SUVs are designed for maximum cargo and passenger versatility. | |
Consumer Guide puts eight vehicles in this class. All players in this category appeal to well-heeled shoppers who want and need more than what any coupe, sedan, or smaller SUV has to offer. |
| The Consumer Guide to 2010 Pickups | |
In the market for a small pickup? Consumer Guide classifies 9 vehicles as compact-pickup trucks. Use our buying guide to check them all out. | |
The two top-selling vehicles in the nation are both full-size pickups. Are you in the market? Check out all your options with our buying guide. |
| The Consumer Guide to 2010 Minivans | |
Though the minivan might seem like an endangered species, there are still a handful of model-year 2010 vans that haven't yet succumbed to extinction. |
