Slideshow
The Wallflower Cars
Jul 31, 2013
When is less popular more desirable?
Popularity is one reason to choose something: a shirt, a car even someone to date, but it isn't always the best reason to make a purchase. Remember when leisure suits, fanny packs, and Britney Spears CDs were must-have items? Popularity doesn't guarantee that you'll like what you get long-term, and sometimes you'll find something you like even better if you look beyond the latest star.
- Read More Great Stories at AOL Autos
- Great Weekend Drives
- Top 11 Safest Cars 2007 & 2008
- Ten Most Expensive Coupes
Consider the Wallflowers
Some car shoppers ignore great choices simply because "they're not popular." It's just like overlooking the kinda-cute girl next door; she won't make other guys jealous, but she might end up being perfect for a long-term relationship. For your benefit, we've assembled a list of vehicles to consider even though they aren't anywhere near the most popular sales stars. Why? Well, because they may actually be a better choice in the long run.
- Read More Great Stories at AOL Autos
- Great Weekend Drives
- Top 11 Safest Cars 2007 & 2008
- Ten Most Expensive Coupes
The Sedan Wallflower: Mercury Sable
According to Automotive News, last February Mercury dealers sold an average of only five new vehicles each. Logically, these dealers will do anything to put you in a Sable. The Sable is roomy, high quality, and powered by an efficient 3.5-liter V-6. Styling is tasteful if a bit understated. Don't be afraid to take a great deal on this ultimate wallflower.
- Research the 2008 Mercury Sable
- Full Overview
- Compare This Car
- Get a Free Price Quote
The Sporty Wallflower: Saab 9-3
Saab dealers want a piece of the 3-Series's sales action. They'll show you a deal on a handsome performance car that is thoroughly improved for 2008, boasting over 2,100 changes to the 2007 edition. Pick from turbocharged 4- and 6-cyinder engines and quality that's never been better.
- Research the 2008 Saab 9-3
- Full Overview
- Compare This Car
- Get a Free Price Quote
The CUV Wallflower: Ford Taurus X
For 2008, Ford replaced the Taurus X's power train with a punchy and efficient 3.5-liter V-6 and 6-speed automatic. Ford also made hundreds of other improvements to this roomy, 7-passgner full-sized crossover. Ford wants to sell more than the 3,000 Taurus XÔøΩs per month, so you're likely to get a better deal on this than an Edge.
- Research the 2008 Ford Taurus X
- Full Overview
- Compare This Car
- Get a Free Price Quote
The Cute 'Ute Wallflower: Kia Sportage
There was a time when Hondas were styled somewhat oddly. Today, they are refined, and the upstart Kia is the quirky one. Buying the feature-heavy Kia means you'll live with imperfect looks. However, because Kia wants to grow sales, you can drive a Sportage for thousands less than the popular Honda CR-V.
- Research the 2008 Kia Sportage
- Full Overview
- Compare This Car
- Get a Free Price Quote
The Minivan Wallflower: Hyundai Entourage
The 2008 Hyundai Entourage is a well-equipped minivan at a super-competitive price. However, in March, Hyundai dealers couldn't even sell 700 units. In the same period, Chrysler sold over 13,000 of its vans. The Town & Country has feature advantages over the Entourage, but you may want dollars in your pocket more than stow 'n go seats in your van.
- Research the 2008 Hyundai Entourage
- Full Overview
- Compare This Car
- Get a Free Price Quote
The Next Wallflower SUV: Nissan Rogue
The smooth lines of the new Rogue are clean but completely unremarkable. There's nothing flashy about this car-based crossover. Since it's available with only one engine (a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder) and one transmission (an automatic continuously variable transmission), many shoppers will look right past it to V-6 powered choices. That is a big mistake. The Rogue is peppy, roomy, and loaded with value.
- Research the 2008 Nissan Rogue
- Full Overview
- Compare This Car
- Get a Free Price Quote