15. Fiat 500L
If you don’t need an SUV, the Fiat 500 is a decent option for drivers looking for a compact car that will reduce your gas bill.
The 500L is the more family-friendly, larger two-door version of the Fiat 500. While it offers more storage space and a bit more room for taller people, the car is stiff and undeveloped, and pedal responsiveness is jumpy. Older models aren’t any more impressive either. Kelley Blue Book’s expert reviewer criticized its crash test scores, resale value and interior room, and the 2014 and 2015 versions of the Fiat 500 are listed among used cars to avoid. The stylish European look by the Italian carmaker, which has merged with Chrysler, is not enough to justify the price tag. You may want to consider a more reliable competitor, such as Honda.
Reliability score: 29
• $22,500 starting price
• 27 mpg