A big year for small cars
Date Posted: Monday, March 12, 2007Author:
Toyota Yaris: one of the new generation of superminis
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With narrow roads and parking spaces at a premium, Bermuda isn’t necessarily the best place to drive a big car. Fortunately, 2007 promises to a big year for small cars, with several new models appearing in showrooms, as well as a number of redesigned old favourites.
Worldwide concerns about fuel economy have boosted small car sales over recent years and manufacturers have responded well to demand. Buyers are no longer content with box-like entry level vehicle and the basic subcompacts of a few years ago have all but disappeared. Today’s small cars boast large cabins, improved handling and sleek styling, not to mention a host of features that come as standard such as air conditioning and electric windows.
We look at some of the offerings for 2007.
Toyota Yaris
The popular Toyota Yaris has been given a makeover for 2007. Known for its reliability and fuel economy, the second generation Yaris is available as a two-door hatchback or sedan. Both have smart, fun styling that will appeal particularly to younger drivers. The 1.5 litre engine provides a surprising amount of power and although it’s small outside, the cabin is roomy and comfortable. The Yaris comes with a wide range of features as standard, including a digital console.
Honda Fit
The Fit is Honda’s smallest and least expensive car but with sporty looks, impressive fuel economy and clever use of interior space, it raises the bar for small cars design. With a 1.5-litre, 16-valve engine, it boasts good acceleration, while mileage is as high as 33 mpg. Good suspension and stability mean the Fit is more than able to handle Bermuda’s winding roads.
Nissan Versa
Blending Japanese technology and French design, Nissan’s new offering this year is the Versa. Nissan says the name refers to the car’s versatile use of interiors space. More powerful and larger than the Yaris and Honda Fit, Versas have a peppy, 1.8 litre, 122 horsepower engine. Specs are high and even the base models have plenty of equipment, including a CD player, air conditioning and a 60/40 folding rear seat.
Kia Rio
Kia has just redesigned its smallest model - the Rio. The new Rio is larger and comes with improved safety features, including six airbags, side-impact door beams and front and rear crumple zones. It has a sportier appearance than its predecessors, although the basic model is lacking in some areas – no air conditioning, stereo or split seats. The 1.6-litre, four-cylinder engine produces 110 horsepower – more than adequate for Bermuda’s 35kmph speed limit.
Suzuki SX4
The 2007 Suzuki SX4 is an all-new four-door hatchback that blends the maneuverability of a subcompact with looks and hauling power of an SUV. The cabin is roomy and will appeal to families and the SX4 boasts a generous package of safety features as standard. It boasts an all-wheel drive system and 2.0-litre, four cylinder engine.