Kelley Blue Book has chosen their Top 10 Tax Refund Cars; cars they believe your tax refund should be spent on.  I’m not certain I agree with everything on their list, in fact, maybe two on the list would be cars I’d actually consider. 

Here’s a sampling of their choices:

2010 Audi S5 Cabrio
2009 BMW Z4
2010 Ford Shelby GT500
2009 Infiniti G37 Convertible
2009 Porsche Cayman

Now, unless you’re very rich, are 100% certain your job will survive the recession and you can justify spending over $50,000.00 for a Cayman or $55,000.00 for an Audi Cabrio in these lean times, this is one list I think I’ll pass on.  Realistically, nobody in my crowd pockets a tax refund or stimulus check anywhere close to what these cars cost. In fact, most of my friends call themselves fortunate to get $100.00 back, so there’s just no way they could even afford a down payment for most of the cars on the list - at least certanly not right now.  

In addition, KBB recently announced the results of their latest Kelley Blue Book Marketing Research survey of in-market new-car shoppers.  Seventy-three percent of consumers said they would consider buying a new car with help from items like their 2008 tax refund, a stimulus check or new-car-related 2009 tax deductions.

Sure, I can get behind those figures but I think most people surveyed weren’t thinking about buying a $40,000.00 BMW with their refund checks, either.  Even with tax rebates, the stimulus package which encourages more 2009 car purchases, as well as sales tax deductions, people want a vehicle that’s a good buy, that won’t break the bank, gets good fuel economy and most importantly, one that’s affordable. I know we’re living in the disposable age, but cars cost a lot of money even with rebates, refunds and deals.

I’m a loyal KBB follower, but I just can’t get behind this list.

If you’re like me and the majority of my friends who can’t afford anywhere near a $50,000.00 car, take a look at my choices below instead you’re likely to find something affordable, that fits nicely into your budget and doesn’t skimp on looks, features or safety, either.

Tina’s Top 10 Tax Refund Cars:

• Nissan Versa
MSRP: $9,990
26/34 mpg

• Mazda 5 (minivan)
MSRP: $18,665
22/28 mpg

• Ford Fusion
MSRP: $19,270
23/34 mpg

• Kia Sportage SUV
MSRP: $20,370
20/25

• Nissan Altima 2.5 S
MSRP: $21,040
23/32mpg

• Kia Sorento SUV
MSRP: $22,165
17/23 mpg

• Volkswagen Tiguan SUV
MSRP: $23,200
19/26 mpg

• Volkswagen GTI
MSRP: $23,230
21/31 mpg

• Chrysler 300
MSRP: $27,665
18/26 mpg

• Volkswagen Passat Wagon
MSRP: $29,690
19/28 mpg

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