Each year, AAA takes a comprehensive look at more than 200 vehicles and judges them according to many criteria, such as ride, performance, braking, handling, passenger and cargo space, value and fuel economy.
The 2006 Top Cars are:
Category Car EPA Miles Per Gallon (*estimated city/highway)
| Under - $15,000 | Mazda 3 | 25/35 |
| $15,000 - $20,000 | Honda Accord Sedan | 26/34 |
| $20,000 - $25,000 | Dodge Charger | 19/27 |
| $25,000 - $30,000 | Toyota Avalon | 22/31 |
| $30,000 - $35,000 | BMW 3 Series | 20/30 |
| $35,000 - $40,000 | Volvo S80 | 21/30 |
| $40,000 - $50,000 | Infiniti M35/M45 | 17/25 |
| $50,000 + | Jaguar XJ8L | 18/27 |
| SUV $30,000 | Ford Escape Hybrid | 36/29 |
| SUV $30,000 + | Mercedes-Benz M-Class | 16/20 |
| Minivan | Honda Odyssey | 18/28 |
| Pick Up Truck | Honda Ridgeline | 16/21 |
| Cool Car | Chevrolet Corvette Z06 | 16/26 |
* EPA estimated miles per gallon. Actual mileage may vary based on individual's personal driving habits and road conditions.
