5 Best 2010 Models Under $30K

Looking for a great deal on a new car? These models are easy on your wallet-under $30,000-and can still get your heart pounding:

2010 Chevy Camaro¹
Who it's for: For those who want the mystique of old school muscle, mixed with thoroughly modern engineering.
Why it makes the list: The introduction of the all-new 2010 Chevy Camaro is a reason to rejoice. Why, you ask? Because Chevy did it right. The 2010 Camaro is a thrill ride. Both the V6 and V8 engines are all-aluminum, thoroughly modern barn burners. The V6 breaks the magic 300 barrier developing 304 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, while the V8 boasts a thumping 426 horses and 400 lb-ft of torque. Either way, you can expect extraordinary acceleration. When you toss grippy handling, head-turning looks, unique interior design and good fuel economy in the mix, the car is a winner. Even the most jaded auto-enthusiast will be impressed by the value-to-performance ratio this car brings to the table.
PRICE: Starts at $22,995.
2009 Chrysler 300²
Who it's for: For the family man looking for style and substance
Why it makes the list: Full-size, rear-wheel-drive sedans used to dominate U.S. roadways. Nowadays, there is only a handful and the Chrysler 300 is the clear standout, primarily for its unique combination of form and function. Ever since its debut in 2005, the 300 has been turning heads with its boxy, yet stylish look. And beauty isn't only skin deep. Inside, you'll find upscale touches everywhere, from the chrome accents to the soft-opening glove box. While the driving experience varies considerably from model to model, the ride is generally smooth and acceleration somewhat tepid in the base model.
PRICE: Starts at $26,665.
Dodge Ram 1500³
Who it's for: The workhorse who wants a bit more style.
Why it makes the list: Dodge Ram 1500 is a rebel among pick-ups. Its brazen styling has been turning heads and thumbing its nose at conventional truck wisdom since it first hit the road back in 1993 as a 1994 model. The 2009 Ram is no different; it's a real looker. But style is not what makes the 2009 so significant. Instead, it's the use of rear coil springs, a first for American pickups. They improve ride comfort and also deliver greater handling poise in the corners. The Ram's ride quality is now closer to that of a car than any body-on-frame pick-up yet, placing this half-ton truck at the head of the class. The most-popular Ram 1500 engine should continue to be the Hemi. The 5.7-liter V8 has been massaged to develop 390 hp, a 13 percent increase over 2008's 345 hp rating, and 407 lb.-ft. of torque-an 8 percent jump. Even with increased power, the Hemi's fuel economy is up an estimated 4 percent.
PRICE: Starts at $22,420.
2010 Ford Mustang⁴
Who it's for: Those looking for a great value-oriented sports car.
Why it makes the list: The original pony car solidified its place in the automotive hall of fame a long time ago. The 2010 model is being heralded by experts as the best Mustang built yet. For 2010, Ford carved away about half the body fat; what's left, appropriately enough, is all muscle. Staying true to Mustang heritage, there is a Mustang for everyone from a V-6 to a V-8 in a coupe, convertible or glass roof. The Mustang-centric double-brow dashboard has been retained, though it now is covered in materials that look and feel richer. There are even new three-section taillights, and they illuminate sequentially, from the center outwards. And something new: more control for steering and handling - even on the V-6 model, which is calibrated much like last year's GT - is crisp, rock-steady and unflappable. The Mustang is no longer just an animal on the straight-aways.
PRICE: Starts at $20,995.
2009 Jeep Wrangler⁵
Who it's for: The off-road enthusiast (or those who want to look like one).
Why it makes the list: The new Jeep Wrangler can't be beat for heritage, image, and no-compromises off-road ability. If you're looking for the most invigorating exposure to the great outdoors, this is your ride. The top goes down, the doors come off, and the windshield can fold down onto the hood (though with some effort). Meanwhile, the 10.2 inches of ground clearance, the steep approach and departure angles, and the two-door's short wheelbase make the Wrangler the go-to vehicle for those who want to hit the hills. And it's a Chrysler- deals will abound.
PRICE: Starts at $20,710.