QOTD: What's the Best "Bang For Your Buck" Vehicle on Sale Right Now?

“What’s the best car right now?”

This question is the bane of existence for any automotive journalist. Not only is there no answer for this particular line of questioning, the inquirer is also looking for validation on their decision to buy a Honda Civic. Then you’re required to explain “it’s about your needs” and the best car is probably one costing more than the inquirer can afford. However, if your need is to have a really annoying CVT wedged in a cramped two-door coupe that can only be driven by those under 5’10” when equipped with the optional sunroof – well, they’ve hit the nail on the head.

But, what about best value for money vehicles on the market?

Everyone can argue about value and they typically do. Yesterday was a good example of that with the “garbage can full of pistons” X-Type. Even if you can pick one up for $3,000 or less, you’re committing to a lifetime of possible expensive issues dependant on its level of care from the five previous owners who’ve cut and run. You’re typically better off in the long run with a Toyota Corolla with twice the mileage costing twice as much. There’s something to be said for ease of maintenance and a trouble-free mind whenever you pull onto the freeway.

But, when it comes to best value – at least in my eyes – you can’t beat the Dodge Grand Caravan.

It’ll seat seven people in relative comfort and comes with “tailgate seating” for those times at the beach or while actually tailgating. Take out the seats and it can be used as a plywood transportation mobile or makeshift roadside tent if you have a blow up mattress. You can option all sorts of nifty storage solutions: Stow-and-Go, fold-flat seats, etc. Oh, and the base model? 283-hp V6 engine for under $20,000 if you play your cards right while haggling. Catch a Dodge-Chrysler-Jeep-Ram dealer on a bad month while the mothership is throwing cash at these things and you can score one for under $17,000.

What say you, Best & Brightest? What’s your pick for best value vehicle on sale right now?