Obama may have declared the recession over; however, that doesn't mean that millions of Americans aren't still feeling the effects of our latest economic crisis. Consumer spending is down, unemployment is up, and, to add insult to injury, gas prices are still sky-high. So what does this all mean to the dedicated auto enthusiast? Time to buy a new car! While the rest of the country struggles to recover from its recent fiscal nightmare, automakers have been busy slashing prices and tagging on bells and whistles to already-attractive vehicles — and boy, have they caught our ear. The auto industry's current crop of entry-level automobiles are not only extremely affordable for prospective buyers, they're also offering drivers more than ever in terms of performance, amenities and comfort. On our list of the Top 10 Best Cheap Cars, which features our favorite vehicles for under $20,000, you will find a number of excellent, fuel-efficient options that challenge the way we look at so-called "budget cars." Low in price, high in value, and packed to the roof racks with special features, these cars are sure to add a little cheer to our post-recession blues.