It has been suggested that the newest subcompact cars are a better choice than a hybrid for saving gas and that they are the new entry level vehicles. The hybrids are pricey and the old compact models have morphed into bigger versions of themselves leaving the compact market bereft if no new models were introduced. Lucky for us most car manufacturers have met the challenge and come up with some great choices. I asked Jody Victor to run them by for us.
Jody Victor: The new entry level cars or B-segment is an emerging focus on the automotive landscape characterized by small size, big economy, affordable price tags, and distinctive styling. But what is a B-segment vehicle? They're part hatchback, part liftback, part minivan hybrid, part mini SUV crossover or part some other tuck under, bend over or blend together vehicle that has style, convenience, green-friendly fuel-efficiency and a low-cost buy-in. While most car sales fell off 4% in April 2007, the Toyota Yaris and Honda Fit (2 examples of B-segment cars) had best-ever sales performances.
Some of the more well known B-segment models are the Chevy Aveo5 (lowest priced at $10,560), Honda Fit, Hyundai Accent GS, Kia Rio5, The MINI Cooper ( most expensive of the lot at $18,700), Nissan Versa (the longest overall with characteristic big interior), Scion xA(which is being replaced by the xD for 2008), Scion xB(great makeover for 2008), Suzuki SX4(lowest mpg at 23/28 mpg), and the leader of the pack Toyota Yaris (second lowest MSRP at $11,150, and best fuel economy on the road this side of a hybrid).
Thanks, Jody! We'll check 'em out!