Consumer Guide Automotive presents its Best Buy Awards to six 2012 compact cars. These Best Buys represent the best balance of attributes and price within the compact-car class. Also check out our 2012 Best Buy and Recommended selections for the 17 other vehicle classes.

2012 Best Buy: Ford Focus

Base MSRP: $16,500; Consumer Guide Rating: 67

2012 Best Buy: Honda Civic

Base MSRP: $15,805; Consumer Guide Rating: 62

2012 Best Buy: Mazda 3

Base MSRP: $15,200; Consumer Guide Rating: 66

2012 Best Buy: Nissan Versa

Base MSRP: $10,990; Consumer Guide Rating: 64

2012 Best Buy: Volkswagen Golf

Base MSRP: $17,995; Consumer Guide Rating: 71

2012 Best Buy: Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen

Base MSRP: $19,995; Consumer Guide Rating: 72