For Your Consideration...

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IntelliChoice.com has been singing the praises of small vehicles like the Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic for years. In fact, the Civic has been a big "Best Overall Value of the Year" winner in our analyses for several years in a row.

You might be in the mood (or in the forced financial situation) that is requiring downsizing into a right-sized vehicle for your transportation needs. After all, regular readers of The Bell Curve know that I have been espousing taking a hard look at your TRUE driving habits and buying a vehicle that meets those standards. More often than not, drivers find themselves saddled with vehicles purchased in the all-too-common "just in case" mentality. "Just in case I need to pick up Aunt Mabel and her three dogs at the train station, I better get a truck." "Just in case I am asked to take the neighborhood kids to soccer practice next week, I better get an eight-seat SUV." I think you know the feeling.

So should you immediately run off to your local Toyota, Honda, Ford or Chevrolet store if you need a smart small car? Not so fast. The Corolla, Civic, Focus and Cobalt are great options, but you should be aware of two small cars I recently drove and found to be solid alternatives with loads of spirit and style.

The Mitsubishi Lancer was introduced as an all-new model in 2008 and carries on with power and refinement available in several models: DE, ES, GTS and Ralliart. (Don't forget the incredible and potent Evolution versions at the top of the range.) All of the standard versions are powered by a 2.0 liter four-cylinder engine good for 152 horsepower and 146 pound-feet of torque, driven by a five-speed manual or continuously variable transmission (CVT). Fuel economy noted during my time in this little sportster was in the 27 MPG range, but that was with my typically heavy right foot. But most important as an option to the big four noted above is the unexpected refinement and solidity. Many small cars claim to be "sport sedans," but my experience says the Lancer is one of the few that can back up this claim. Its size is not too small and it can easily carry five adults, but it is the style and presence that will keep your attention when you visit your local Mitsubishi dealer. Trust me...I have driven them all!

2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart Sedan

Another small car well worth your consideration is the SX4 line from Suzuki. This brand has been on a growth spurt despite the overall industry downturn, and this can be attributed to hitting the market with the right sized vehicles for the times. From the Grand Vitara SUV to the all-new Equator pickup, Suzuki is trying to offer its owners the benefits of active-lifestyle vehicles without the high cost or expense of owning. Just check out its new tag line for proof --"Live Large, Drive Small."

When it comes to the SX4 sport sedan and crossover, Suzuki didn't make many compromises: 143 horsepower, 136 pound-feet of torque, and all-wheel drive in the crossover version. The sedan boasts a low-profile stance, which is suspended by KYB shocks and tuned stabilizer bars. All this for a starting price of under $15k. And get this--the SX4 is now the least expensive vehicle on the road with an available satellite navigation system, at just under $16k. We are talking serious value here...with a healthy dose of fun and individuality.

2009 Suzuki SX4 Sport Sedan

And that might be the best part of these Mitsubishi and Suzuki vehicles--you are guaranteed to be one of the few and proud examples in the mall parking lot or along your drive to work. Just start counting all of the Civics and Corollas and Cobalts....

Posted on 2008-10-03 | Permalink | |

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