Autoblog takes on Gratiot: Cars don't have to be old to be cruise-worthy

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As big as the muscle car market has become, not everybody wants to spend their weekends working on a vehicle that gets 8 mpg while still reaching 60mph slower than a V6 Accord. For some, their everyday transportation has become their passion. Other vehicles, like the 80’s Monte Carlo or Buick Grand National, are collectible because they act as newer versions of the muscle cars of the 60s and 70s, but with smaller price tags.

While Gratiot avenue still reserved most of its space for vehicles that are older than I am, plenty of newer classics had their day in the (hot) sun as well. Our favorite was the Ferrari 328 GTS Fiero dressed up in its best Italian suit, and was on sale for “only” $13,000. There were three or four Prowlers, a few souped-up PT Cruisers, plenty of Corvettes, and a couple of Vipers as well. There was even a Dodge Nitro that someone dropped at least $15,000 on. Take a look at the high-res image gallery of our 80’s-and-up shots from the Gratiot Cruise.

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Honda Fit

Redesigned in 2009, the Honda Fit now has improved rear seat leg room as well as increased cargo capacity in what was already a spacious package for a small car. What’s more — the back seat folds flat into the floor for a giant amount of cargo room, assuming your tween or teen is tall enough to sit up front. With a starting price at sub-$15,000 and a combined fuel economy of 30 mpg, the Fit is easy on the budget.

Honda

Buick LaCrosse

Forget the old, stodgy Buick of days past. The redesigned Buick LaCrosse has bold styling, an updated interior and a choice of two powerful V6 engines. There’s substantial rear seat legroom for kids who are growing like weeds, while standard safety equipment includes six airbags, anti-lock brakes, stability and traction control. And if you’ll be giving driving lessons to your teen in the next few years, you’ll be comforted by the Top Safety Pick rating from the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety.

General Motors

Mazda5

While smaller than your average minivan, the Mazda Mazda5 seats six in three rows and features such as the foldout snack tray, large siding doors and low floor mean big kids can be self-sufficient while Mom plays chauffeur. Mom will be happy behind the wheel with available features like a navigation system, Bluetooth capability and heated leather seats to keep her riding in style while standard side airbags for the front seats, side curtain airbags, traction and stability control provide peace of mind.

Mazda

Honda CR-V

The Honda CR-V has long been a favorite for parents and now for 2010 it’s even better. The 2.4-liter engine now has 14 more horsepower, yet also has improved fuel economy. Big Kids will like the reclining rear seats and large storage compartments for holding all their loot. Safety is key too, with six airbags, standard stability control and a Top Safety Pick from the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety. For added security, there’s a backup camera and four-wheel-drive available.

Honda