A relatively new player in the American car market, Daewoo represents Korean automotive ingenuity and integrity. When Americans think of cars from the Far East, they tend to think of the cars of Japan: Toyota, Mitsubishi, Honda, etc. Daewoo isn't necessarily a departure from these trusted brands; rather, they embody a renewed emphasis on producing efficient and reliable Eastern engines.

By Korean automotive standards, the term 'luxury' is defined differently. In the west, luxury cars are those that provide comfort at any price. In Korea, the term also carries an unspoken commitment to affordability. Daewoo cars represent economical luxury redefined--they are generally reliable, comfortable, perform well, and offer great gas mileage. Three of their top selling cars include the Daewoo Lanos, Nubira, and Leganza.

Daewoo prides itself on supplying cars that have excellent fuel economy and overall value. The Lanos, a inexpensive car that could be compared to the Hyundai Elantra in size and design, is a quick and reliable compact sedan. The Daewoo Lanos has front-wheel drive and one of the largest engines in its class. Features not usually included on other similarly-priced cars (like power door locks and windows and anti-lock brakes) are standard in the Lanos.

The Daewoo Nubira, a car about the size of a Ford Escort, is built to be a good value from bumper to bumper. Ideal for younger drivers like college students, this compact sedan goes anywhere. The Daewoo Leganza is their luxury offering, and it is noticeably different than the Lanos or Nubira. At under $20,000, the Leganza far out-prices like-minded sedans like the Honda Accord. If you're looking for great value, consider this Korean automaker.