Increasing environmental awareness as well as rising gas prices has created a demand for small, fuel-efficient automobiles. While the diminutive size of these subcompact cars used to draw stares a few years back, they are becoming an increasingly common sight on today’s roads. The following list profiles some of the most popular and recognizable ultra-small cars.
The Honda Fit is also an excellent choice for those shopping for an affordable, sporty small car. MSRP starts around $15,000. The Fit’s gas mileage – 28 city/35 highway – is similar to the Mini Cooper’s. The Fit has received many accolades in the automotive press due to its extensive list of options, fun-to-drive factor and its versatility. The Honda fit offers an excellent combination of fun, value and practicality.
Known for its style as well as its performance, the Mini Cooper is the iconic tiny car. With an MSRP starting at around $19,000 it’s also affordable fun. This pocket rocket also has a practical side with EPA-estimated fuel economy 28 mpg city/37 mpg highway. True to its BMW-produced roots, the Cooper has excellent handling. It’s also one of the most-recognizable cars on the road.
The Toyota Yaris has not been affected by the recent Toyota recall. In fact, the quirky Yaris offers an impressive array of safety features for a car in its class, including vehicle stability control and traction control. MSRP starts at $12,605 and gas mileage is impressive – 29 city/35 highway. The Yaris also offers an interior that is both roomy and stylish. It’s a sensible choice.
The Smart ForTwo is Daimler’s contribution to the subcompact market. The MSRP is around $12,000 for this toy-like automobile. Gas mileage is 33 city/41 highway. The Smart car is a good urban runabout that excels into fitting into tiny spaces (you can park it nose-first to the curb and still fit into a parallel-parking space!), but it’s not really a good choice for highway driving.
With an MSRP of around $13,300, the Kia Soul is the one of the most affordable small cars on the market. Its low price, avant-garde styling and customizable features have earned it many fans. Gas mileage is acceptable at 26 city/31 highway. The Soul also offers some unusual upgrades. For example, the lights in the speakers can be set to pulse with the music in the upgraded stereo system.
Consumers looking for a subcompact car have many choices on today’s market. From funky to fun to practical – there’s definitely something out there for everyone.
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