8. Nissan Versa
For those who want something bigger than a microcar, the 2017 Nissan Versa should draw some attention. The four-door sedan gives more space than the Smart car, along with more power. The Nissan Versa has 109 horsepower and a full four cylinders.
The Versa definitely doesn’t have the recognizance of the Smart car, but it does have something more appealing – a price tag starting about $2,000 less. For around $12,000, you can get an EPA-rated 34 miles per gallon combined, factoring in 31 mpg city and 39 mpg highway.
7. Chevrolet Spark
“It’s not small, it’s fun size.” That’s one of the advertising slogans from General Motors about the Chevrolet Spark. And while it might be a little more driver-centric than some others, the Spark IS small. The 1.4-liter Ecotec engine falls just short of 100 ponies from a 1.4-liter engine, and it’s available in automatic or 6-speed manual.
If you’re looking for reliable transportation for a daily commute, or have a teen learning to drive, the Spark can do these well. Just don’t expect any overnighters – there’s virtually no space for cargo in the hatch. For 2017, the Chevrolet Spark starts at $13,000 and has an EPA-rated 34 mpg combined, 31 mpg city and 40 mpg highway.
6. Ford Fiesta
Now it gets interesting. The 2017 Ford Fiesta has perhaps the best combination of style and equipment. It’s available in a sedan or hatchback for whichever works better for your lifestyle. It’s a good-looking little diddy, and – dare I say – sporty. Its 1.6-liter I4 engine packs 120 horsepower under its small hood to tickle your fancies.
Your Ford Fiesta could suffice for a good all-around car, especially if you pick the sedan. You can expect a 35 mpg overall fuel economy, or 31 mpg city and 41 mpg highway, starting at $13,660. Or, should you want a little extra zippity-doodah, the Fiesta ST hatchback has 197 horsepower.
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