New 2006 Entry-Level Cars Trending Performance and Fuel Economy

Compacts:

The subcompact segment isn't the only category heating up, with high costs at the pump also driving compacts sales. A variety of automakers have stepped up with all-new entries, while others have given their cars significant upgrades. The compact segment also features non-traditional models, some that could be designated as crossovers and others minivans. You be the judge.

2006 Chevrolet HHR - Déjà Vu All Over Again

Is

Is Chevrolet's new HHR a crossover SUV? (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

Chevrolet's new HHR a crossover SUV? That's debatable. It looks like a classic 1940s panel wagon from the outside, thanks to help from ex-Chrysler PT Cruiser designer Bryan Nesbitt, who recently switched over to rival GM, but rides and handles like a car. Once inside this all-new crossover few will be able to argue against its accommodating interior, however, and the performance of its base 140-hp 2.2L 4-cylinder with 150 lb-ft of torque, standard with the $18,995 LS is more than adequate, while the optional 170-hp 2.4L four with170 lb-ft of torque included with the $21,195 LT, should be quite sporty.

2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser - A New Lease on Life

Chrysler's

The new PT features a wider, restyled grille, scalloped headlamps, modified taillights and an upgraded interior. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler Canada)

venerable PT Cruiser has been given the ultimate compliment for 2006, and I'm not talking about its new lease on life that includes a wider, restyled grille, scalloped headlamps, modified taillights and an upgraded interior, but rather the appearance of an imitator in Chevy's new HHR (shown last month in the crossover, SUV and truck guide). Mechanically its much the same, with a 150-hp 2.4L engine in base trim and top-line GTs getting a punchy 220-hp turbocharged version of the same engine. Available in "sedan" and convertible guises, the PT is still one of the most customizable vehicles on the market.

2006 Honda Civic - Better in Every Way

Canada's

All Civics, except for the Si and Hybrid, get an improved, larger displacement engine, now making 140-hp. (Photo: Honda Canada)

best selling car is better in every way for 2006. Its new design should be more appealing to buyers starting to tire of the old 2005 model, although it was still selling strongly last month. Once again a sedan and coupe model is available, the former available with a hybrid drivetrain and the latter dressed up in sporty 197-hp Si trim, but Honda, an early adaptor with its previous Civic wagon, hasn't bought into the current 5-door trend. Like the Si, base Civics get an improved, larger engine, now making 140-hp. The ride, while more refined, is sportier than the outgoing Civic.