Hard Work Deserves Big Rewards - NADAguides.com Picks the Best Cars for Dads and Grads

List Highlights Sports Cars, Hybrids, Crossovers, Convertibles and Trucks that Any Dad or Grad Would Be Proud to Own

COSTA MESA, Calif., June 18 -- It only seems fitting that as we begin to kick-off the summer, we start celebrating two hardworking groups of people: Fathers and graduates. With all the long hours they put in and sacrifices they make, a reward is well-deserved. What better reward to give than a new car? To ease the process for those looking for the perfect car for their dad or grad, NADAguides.com, the leader in vehicle pricing and information, has identified its list of the "Best Cars for Dads and Grads" in five of today's hottest vehicle segments.

Sports Cars

Nothing ignites the soul of an auto enthusiast like a spirited drive in a sports car. For dads, the 2010 Camaro SS will do the trick in more ways than one. The Camaro blends the tire-melting performance of a 426 hp 6.2L V8 with styling straight from the late 1960s, the golden era of the American muscle car, at an amazing starting price of just $30,245.

Performance isn't reserved for the wealthy, as evidenced by the $22,000 Hyundai Genesis Coupe 2.0T. The 210 hp turbocharged 4-cylinder puts its power down through the rear wheels, which leaves it in a class all by itself. With a relatively low curb weight of about 3,300 pounds and a sport tuned suspension, the Genesis Coupe continues to thrill when the road gets curvy.

Hybrids

Dads concerned about fuel prices and the environment will love the EPA rated 41 city/36 hwy mpg 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid. Starting at $27,270, the Fusion Hybrid is loaded with technology, including voice-activated navigation with SYNC and Ford's SmartGauge with EcoGuide that manages to make economical driving fun.

For years the high price of hybrid technology has kept hybrid vehicles out of reach for most graduates, but the 2010 Honda Insight aims to change that. With a starting price of $19,800 the Insight provides a practical and affordable way to get 40 city/ 43 hwy mpg while making a strong social statement.

Crossovers

Dad deserves to be comfortable. With a standard tri-zone climate control and available heated and cooled leather seats, the 2010 Buick Enclave is certainly up to the task. The starting price is around $35,000 and an estimated 24 mpg on the highway also makes this luxurious crossover very affordable.

Starting at $21,245 the 2009 Honda CR-V is the perfect vehicle for the active graduate. Plenty of cargo room and available four-wheel drive add to the go anywhere, do anything attitude while great gas mileage figures of 20 city/ 27 hwy mpg keep operating costs low.

Convertibles

There's really nothing like driving with the top down, and for the dad who enjoys some sportiness to go along with it the 2009 Porsche Boxster S is an excellent choice. Porsche's renowned driving dynamics and a silky-smooth 310 hp flat 6-cylinder engine create an incredible driving experience that is further enhanced by the "wind through the hair" sensation. The $56,700 starting price might seem steep, but is a small price to pay for such a legendary machine.

Most recent gradates' love for the 2010 Ford Mustang is eclipsed by only one thing: their love for the Mustang Convertible. The 210 hp 26 mpg highway V6 results in a practical and fun-to-drive car that starts at only $25,995 and the classic styling ensures they'll never go unnoticed.

Trucks

Whether dedicated to work or fun, Dad can't go wrong with the 2009 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD. The 3,458 pound hauling capacity takes care of the work and the 13,000 pound towing capacity handles the fun. Whether in 6.0L gasoline or 6.6L turbo diesel trim, the Silverado 2500 continues to be one of the most capable and dependable trucks on the road.

In rear-wheel drive format with the 159 hp 2.7L 4-cylinder engine, the 2009 Toyota Tacoma can accommodate nearly any budget with a low starting price of $15,170. Any graduate will love the utility and rugged looks of the Tacoma, while parents will undoubtedly appreciate its reliability and five-star front and side crash test ratings.