HATCHBACK
The Audi A3 offers the versatility of a compact hatchback with seating for five. Power comes from a turbocharged 4-cylinder or a V6 engine. Quattro all-wheel-drive is an option.
Powered by a 1.6-liter 4-cylinder, the Chevy Aveo comes in sedan and hatchback bodystyles and features a handsome and spacious interior. The ride is comfortable, but not sporty.
Available with a choice of 4-cylinder engines, the Chevrolet HHR seats five in a spacious and versatile cabin. A two-seat panel version without rear seats is available.
The PT Cruiser combines the retro look of late-'30s American iron with modern performance, efficiency, and features. The PT Cruiser comes in hatchback and 2-door convertible bodystyles.
Powered by a choice of 4-cyl. engines, the Caliber combines design elements of several classes, but trails the competition in build quality. SRT4 offers affordable performance.
The Honda Element is a utility vehicle that's designed to maximize space and hauling options in a fairly small package, with driving characteristics similar to a small sedan.
The Honda Fit is one of the most versatile vehicles in its class, thanks to its "magic" rear seats. It is powered by a willing 1.5-liter 4-cylinder and offers excellent handling.
The Hyundai Accent is a competent subcompact car that's big inside, sprightly underway and includes an impressive array of standard features.
Powered by a choice of 4-cylinder engines, the Mazda Mazda3 comes in sedan and hatchback bodystyles with handsome and sporty styling and excellent handling.
The handsome Mazda Mazda6 comes powered by a pair of four- and six-cylinder engines and is sportier than its competition, both in appearance and in its handling and driving dynamics.
The Mini Cooper is available in hatchback and convertible styles and comes with a handsome exterior, stylish interior, and excellent handling.
Powered by a 1.8l 4-cylinder, the Nissan Versa offers seating for five with plenty of interior space for a car in this class and comes with decent handling. Safety features include multiple airbags.
With its boxy layout, the Scion xB offers ample space for five people and there luggage. Engine power, courtesy of a 2.4l 4-cyl., is adequate, the ride sporty, but wooden on the freeway.
Like its predecessor, the xA, the Scion xD comes well equipped, with air con, a Pioneer stereo, a full complement of power accessories, six airbags, anti-lock brakes, EBD, and brake-assist.
The smallest car available in the US, the Smart Fortwo comes powered by a 1.0l 3-cyl. engine and offers space for two passengers in hatchback and convertible bodystyles.
Available in sedan and hatchback styles, the Subaru Impreza comes powered by a 2.5l flat-4. Standard all-wheel-drive provides ample traction in all wheather conditions.
The Toyota Yaris is powered by a 1.5l 4-cylinder, offering solid construction, good handling, and a relatively spacious interior for up to five passengers.
