(July 18, 2012) COSTA MESA, Calif. — NADAguides has announced its "Must Consider" list of five cars if you are buying new this summer. Two Kia models and a Buick, Toyota and Subaru made the list.

On the list that NADAguides says need to be considered are the 2012 Buick Verano sedan convenience group, the 2012 Kia Optima sedan 2.4-liter automatic LX, the 2012 Kia Sportage AWD EX, the 2012 Subaru Impreza Wagon 2.0i Sport Limited, and the 2012 Toyota Matrix Wagon FWD.

NADAguides says Must Consider list highlights vehicles that may not necessarily be at the top of consumers' minds, but are worthy of a closer look for in-market new car shoppers. Vehicles chosen for the list are competitively priced within their respective segments and hold their value well but are not seeing much in the way of advertising, promotional support, press or recent sales.

NADAguides analysts have highlighted specific trim levels that possess a combination of quality engineering, design and features, good performance and fuel efficiency resulting in noteworthy success for each vehicle's intended function and overall value.

2012 Buick Verano 4 Door Sedan Convenience Group — The Buick Verano combines luxury and technology features at a very reasonable price point and elegantly flaunts the new design direction of the brand.

Powered by a standard Ecotec 2.4-liter, four-cylinder, direct injected engine producing 180 horsepower and mated with a six-speed automatic powertrain, the Verano achieves an estimated 32 mpg on the highway.  NADAguides.com analysts were impressed with the Verano's E85 capability, enabling buyers the ability to choose Ethanol in addition to regular gasoline. 

The Verano has a starting MSRP of $22,585 and goes up to $25,595 with the Leather Package.

"We were impressed with the Verano's thoughtful design, luxury appointments, quiet ride and full suite of safety and technology features, making it a vehicle that should definitely be considered," said Troy Snyder, Director of Product Development for NADAguides.
      
2012 Kia Optima 4 Door 2.4L Auto LX — The 2012 Kia Optima is a mid-size sedan with FWD and seating for five and exciting design elements. The Optima 2.4-liter Auto LX trim has a standard 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine that produces 200 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque and is paired with a 6-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission that enables the Optima to achieve fuel mileage within an EPA estimated range of 22 mpg city to 35 mpg highway.

The LX comes with an impressive list of standard technology features including AM/FM/CD/MP3/Satellite audio system with SiriusXM Satellite Radio capabilities and three months complimentary service, Bluetooth wireless connectivity, and steering wheel-mounted audio controls.  In addition, the Optima LX features cruise control and an Active Eco System that allows drivers to optimize fuel efficiency while driving. 

The Optima LX has an MSRP of $21,000 and is backed by a 5-year/60,000-mile warranty
       
"The Optima offers the space, features and technology consumers demand in the popular mid-size sedan category with the peace of mind of an excellent warranty and a competitive MSRP,  Smooth driving, comfortable and sexy," Snyder says.

Kia Sportage AWD 4 Door EX —The 2012 Kia Sportage is a compact crossover powered by a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine that produces 176 horsepower and 168 lb-ft of torque and is mated with a 6-speed automatic transmission. 

The fun-to-drive and functional Sportage has an EPA estimated fuel economy range of 21 mpg city to 32 mpg highway. The popular EX trim comes with a host of standard technology features including UVO powered by Microsoft, premium audio with HD Radio, rearview back-up camera, back-up warning system, fully automatic dual-zone temperature control A/C, a power driver's seat, automatic headlamp system, automatic folding second row seats and more.  

The Sportage AWD EX has an MSRP of $25,400 and is backed by a 5-year/60,000-mile warranty.
       
"It is an honor and an achievement for Kia to have two of its vehicles named to NADAguides' very select annual 'Must Consider' list. The Optima and Sportage clearly embody the essence of Kia's full model line, which is defined by innovative design, upscale features, impressive safety scores, advanced technology and an overall high consumer value," said Michael Sprague, executive vice president of Marketing & Communications, Kia Motors America.

2012 Subaru Impreza Wagon 2.0i Sport Limited — All new for 2012, the compact five-door auto hatchback is powered by a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine that produces 148 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. 

Versatile  by nature, the Impreza Wagon 2.0i 5 Door Auto 2.0i Sport Limited also comes standard with Symmetrical all-wheel drive and has improved its fuel economy by more than 30 percent from the previous generation with an EPA estimated 25 mpg city and 34 mpg highway. 

With increased interior room, the Impreza is also loaded with convenience features such as a 6-speaker audio system, hands-free phone capabilities, navigation, steering wheel controls, satellite radio, and heated front seats, making it as comfortable as it is versatile. 

MSRP is $22,595 and comes with a 3 years/36,000 mile basic new-vehicle warranty, and roadside assistance for 3 years/36,000 miles.
       
"Wagons are typically overlooked by shoppers weighing the pros and cons of a sedan versus an SUV, however the Subaru Impreza Wagon is a great value and offers the best of both worlds. Sporty driving performance with function and all-wheel drive, it doesn't get any more versatile than this making the Impreza Wagon a vehicle you must consider," said Snyder.

2012 Toyota Matrix Manual S FWD — The 2012 Toyota Matrix is a five-door hatchback with a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine that produces 158 horsepower and 162 lb-ft. of torque. The FWD model comes with a 5-speed manual transmission and has an EPA estimated fuel economy range of 21 mpg city and 28 mpg highway.

The Matrix offers a host of standard comfort and convenience features including an all-weather package, power windows and power door locks, cruise control, power heated outside rearview mirrors, tilt and telescopic sport steering wheel, auxiliary audio jack, 12-volt power outlet and an engine immobilizer. 

The Matrix Manual S FWD has an MSRP of $19,565 and is backed by a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty.

"This compact wagon is a proven driver's car, packed with a long list of comfort and connectivity features that today's shoppers expect.  The Matrix is a great value for those looking for utility and reliability with spirited performance," Snyder said.