Archive for the ‘small cars’ Category

It's not surprising at all that the smallest, least expensive vehicles typically get short shrift on features. You won't find power windows or mirrors, central locking, air conditioning, or even sound systems on some of the most affordable versions of the cheapest models. But while most automakers also skimp on safety features for these most frugal rides—either making them optional or not available at all on base models or so-called value-leaders—there are a couple of gems for 2010 that don’t make those compromises.

One of them is the Toyota Yaris. For 2010, Toyota has decided to phase in its so-called Star Safety System, which includes...

If you've looked at the Versa and lamented that it's actually a bit bigger and thirstier than what you'd hoped for, you're apparently not alone.

Nissan thinks that there's a reasonably strong market for an even smaller model, so the automaker's high-mpg replacement for its Micra minicar will be sold in the U.S.—beginning as soon as 2011. That's according to Automotive News, citing company officials in Japan. Nissan has sold the MINI Cooper–sized Micra minicompact in other markets for decades. While Nissan has before sold U.S. cars smaller than the Versa (20 years ago, its own Sentra hatchback was smaller than the current Versa), this new...

Volkswagen is reportedly working on both convertible and high-performance versions of its subcompact Polo. Be forewarned, the chance is relatively small that these models would come to the U.S.; but if they did they'd considerably increase excitement at the affordable end of its lineup.

According to Autocar, the go-fast Polo would use a version of the 1.4-liter twin-charge (supercharged and turbocharged) engine, with the potential for up to 280 horsepower. Front-wheel drive would be retained, but the model would use an electronic limited-slip differential employing the individual brakes to control wheelspin and torque steer.

Another model...