The Mazda3 has just been named one of the 2011 “Top 10 Coolest New Cars Under $18,000” by Kelley Blue Book. This accolade marks the Mazda3’s eighth consecutive year making the list, a feat well worth celebrating. Kelley Blue Book selects vehicles for the list based on whether the vehicle is fun to drive, fun to own, and has that ever-important ‘cool factor’ – all while remaining under $18,000.

“At some point we’re going to have to give Mazda3 a lifetime achievement award for its unequaled streak of appearances on our annual list of coolest cars,” said Jack R. Nerad, executive editorial director and executive market analyst for Kelley Blue Book’s Kbb.com. “For the eighth year in a row – every year of the car’s existence, in fact – the Mazda3 has earned a spot on our list for its standout sheet metal, excellent interior and exceptional driving dynamics.”

The Mazda3 is undeniably fun, possessing the ‘zoom-zoom’ mentality infused into Mazda’s machines. But that’s not all – the compact sedan is also surprisingly efficient with a standard 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that offers 148 horsepower and 135 pound feet of torque. With an affordable based price of just $15,800, the 2011 Mazda3 also boasts EPA fuel economy rating of 33 highway/24 city when equipped with the 2.0-liter engine (automatic) and 29 highway/22 city when equipped with the 2.5-liter engine (automatic).

“Nearly half of all Mazdas sold in the United States are Mazda3s, so we are proud of the 2011 Mazda3 for earning a spot on Kelley Blue Book’s Kbb.com ‘Top 10 Coolest New Cars Under $18,000’ list,” said Jim O’Sullivan, president and CEO, Mazda North American Operations. “This award illustrates Mazda’s dedication to producing engaging and fun-to-drive vehicles.”