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| Photo: Matthieu Lambert/Auto123.com |
9- Honda Jazz (Fit) Hybrid: Now we're talking! A sub-compact hybrid car that may be affordable and within reach of everyone. There are lots of things going for this little trooper. First, the hybrid system and its batteries have not diminished the car's impressive interior space; the novel Magic Seats are unscathed.
The Jazz Hybrid uses the Insight-sourced 1.3 L i-VTEC engine. The “green” gains are important. CO2 emissions are of only 104 g/km and according to Honda data, fuel consumption numbers will hover in the vicinity of 4.4 L/100km. An average driver in the average Fit can expect an average fuel consumption of 6.5L per 100km. Considerable indeed!
The car will go on sale in some European markets as early as next spring. The real question will be the price. As with most hybrids, regardless of how good they may be, the all-mighty dollar usually has the final word.
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| Photo: Matthieu Lambert/Auto123.com |
10- Suzuki Swift: This is the real one. Not the Swift that is a re-badged Daewoo/Chevrolet with Suzuki logos. This little car is only one of the numerous ultra hot and cool subcompact cars available on the Europe market and elsewhere in the World. The new Swift clearly demonstrates how far these economies have come.
The Swift can be powered by either a 1.2L 4-cylinder petrol engine or a 1.3L diesel 4-cylinder. AWD is an option if FWD will not do and transmission choices reside between a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic.
Well assembled and crafted with decent room for 4 occupants, the Swift manages real-world applications; great fuel economy, room for you, friends and gear. If this little car made its way to our shores, it would be a serious competitor to the Fiesta and Mazda2.
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| Photo: Matthieu Lambert/Auto123.com |
10.5- Hyundai ix20: I was supposed to stop at 10 but I can't help myself; I love all these little cars! The ix20, or what should become the next Accent (in my books at least), is slightly larger than the Swift, its cabin is impressively crafted and has a good trunk. And take a look at its styling! I mean, this is an affordable (better be) subcompact car!
I could go on and on... Throw in the Mitsubishi Colt, the new Chevrolet Aveo and everybody wins!
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