Compare values, such as cost, fuel-efficiency, performance and resale value, to see which 2012 new car model fits your needs.

+ How We Choose Our Best New Car Values

Kiplinger's Best in Class winners top our rankings thanks to stand-out performance, value and safety -- plus driving impressions from our own road tests.

+ VIDEO: Best New Car Values Under $20,000

Each vehicle featured here -- from the Toyota Prius Two to the Cadillac Escalade Hybrid -- is the least thirsty in its class based on annual fuel cost.

+ SLIDE SHOW: Pros and Cons of 5 Types of Green Cars

The cars that made this list had the highest three-year resale value.

New designs and redesigns bring a breath of fresh air each year. Usually, you pay a premium for these newly minted models, but not in 2012.

Kiplinger's auto columnist Jessica Anderson discusses this year's annual car guide picks.

Doing lots of driving this winter? Here are ten 2012 vehicles that offer a shovelful of value -- as measured by our annual rankings -- as well as all-wheel drive.

The more you know about the car-buying process, the more confidence you’ll have -- and the better the deal you’ll snag.

Before you set foot on a car lot, call several dealers in advance to negotiate prices over the phone and get firm offers via e-mail.

The best prices often come from services that will do the haggling for you for a fee.