Kia sports some of the best priced cars on the market!

Since the European market shows no sign of recovery and the oil and gas prices continue to increase, small, fuel-efficient cars are more appealing than ever.

The number of cars priced $15,000 and under has increased by 17%, and the percentage is increasing, according to auto analysts. Of course the small price comes with fewer options and lack of luxury, but this is not a time to be picky.

The list of America's 12 Cheapest Cars includes models such as the Kia Spectra at $12,895, which although cheap can easily compete with the higher-end, inexpensive used cars. The cheapest new car available in the US is the Kia Rio, at $10,890, which features a five-speed manual transmission with a 1.6-liter, four-cylinder engine.

"Generation Y buyers have grown up with technology, conveniences and luxury," says Kim. "They don't want to earn things; they want them now, and they expect them now. Automakers are scrambling to get high-end features into small vehicles."

(Courtesy of In Auto News)