subcompact car

Style Maker: The All-New Nissan Versa

April 29, 2020 by admin 4 Comments

The all-new Versa offers its own take on the brand’s “V Motion” grille.

With three new Nissan car models in just over a year, you might think the segment is poised to rebound. It likely isn’t, especially as sales of crossovers and trucks remain strong. Of course, we’re imagining what the market will look like once the present COVID-19 crisis is behind us.

Apparently, Nissan is taking a wider approach to the market, by doubling down on cars while updating its other models. The car pie may be shrinking, but for the remaining players there are enough sedan shoppers around to keep the market viable.

After rolling out an all-new midsize Altima sedan in 2019, Nissan has done likewise with the subcompact Versa and the compact Sentra, the latter reviewed here. It’s a clean-sheet overhaul for the Versa, which is now a sedan-only model. Gone is the previous Versa Note hatchback. If you’re looking for utility, the small Nissan Kicks and Rogue Sport crossovers fill the void.

2020 Nissan Versa Review

Nissan offers the 2020 Versa in three trims: S ($16,400), SV ($17,640), and SR ($18,240). There is also a basic S version with a manual transmission retailing for $14,730. Add $925 to all trims for the destination and handling charge.

Certain color choices cost $395 more, including the monarch orange metallic of our test model. The available package is reserved for the top-trim SR model. There are also various accessory packages available, including lighting, electronics, floor maps, and trunk carpeting, which are installed at the dealership.

A profile view of the 2020 Nissan Sentra. Behind it is the “Franklin Male Academy Building” on the grounds of Louisburg College in Franklin County, NC. The college was chartered in 1787 and remains the only two-year (junior) residential college in the state.

Exterior

Nissan’s design language continues to evolve, as expected. What’s noticeable about the new Versa is that it takes elements from the brand’s largest sedans – Altima and Maxima – and includes them. One noticeable feature is this model’s grille design, what Nissan calls “V Motion” to underscore its shape. In the Versa it isn’t as strongly apparent as it is in the Sentra, but it’s still evident.

Owing to its smaller footprint, the Versa has a stubby hood and rear deck. Between the wheels you’ll find a strong door-handle-level character line, a rising beltline, and in the top trim a floating roof. Details such as the shark-fin antenna, LED lighting, and fashionable wheels suggest a more expensive model.

The standard equipment includes a chrome grille, halogen headlights, automatic lights, 15-inch steel wheels, and dual power outside mirrors. Upgrading brings in the LED lights, fog lights, aluminum alloy wheels, heated side mirrors, and a rear spoiler.

Interior

We won’t say the Versa seats five even with seatbelt placements for that many occupants. Ideally, it is a four-seater with ample room up front and tight quarters in the rear. If you’re tall and consigned to the rear seat, you better hope the front passengers do not have their seats pushed back.

Nissan employs soft-touch materials and plastics throughout the cabin. The dashboard is sculpted and layered, making for a pleasing design. Nissan places the display panel in the lower dashboard just above the center console. We liked the large open storage compartment at the base of the console and that’s where your cell phone sits.

Our test model featured a leather-wrapped steering wheel, piano black trim, and sport cloth seats with orange stitching. The front seats are adequately padded and offer fair support for long trips. The covered storage compartment between the front seats doubles as an armrest. It is small, deep, and features a USB port. We like that the front doors have wide pockets, suitable for holding drink bottles.

The rear 60/40 split fold-down bench seat doesn’t offer a center fold-down armrest. It isn’t as thickly padded as we would prefer, but it does offer ample room for two. What’s especially welcome is the near 15 cubic feet of trunk storage space – that’s larger than most cars in the segment and matches what some midsize models offer.

Among the standard features for the 2020 Versa are full power accessories, a tilt-and-telescopic steering column, air conditioning, and cloth seats. The list of upgrades includes heated front seats, upgraded cloth options, and leather touchpoints.

Technology

On the tech front, Nissan supplies the Versa with a 7-inch touch-screen display, three USB ports, Bluetooth, Siri Eyes Free, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone compatibility, and four speakers.

Some models come with a six-speaker audio system with satellite radio and include Nissan Connect apps. This represents a basic offering but it is far better than what we saw a decade ago.

Safety

Nissan supplies every Versa model with several driver-assist technologies, including high-beam assist, lane-departure warning, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, and rear automatic braking. We’ve seen the latter feature offered as an extra-cost option in far pricier models.

But Nissan doesn’t stop there. Beginning with the SV trim, Nissan adds blind-spot warning with rear cross-traffic alert. Thus, Nissan offers many of the advanced features we like with adaptive cruise control the sole major exception.

Performance

Every 2020 Versa is governed by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine. This one makes 122 horsepower and 114 pound-feet of torque. Nissan pairs this engine with a 5-speed manual gearbox in base models.

Few customers, however, will likely choose the manual transmission, chiefly because not a lot of drivers know how to use one or prefer not to have one. What’s especially interesting about today’s vehicles equipped with manual transmissions is that they’re not as fuel efficient as automatic transmissions. In the Versa’s case, we have a continuously variable transmission sending power to the front wheels in most models.

Here, the mpg difference is profound: 32 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway for a combined 35 mpg. This compares to 27/35/30 mpg city/highway/combined in the base model. Even though fuel prices are low as of this writing, we think springing for the CVT makes sense.

Performance is not the Versa’s forte. But it isn’t a sluggard. This small sedan offers adequate off-the-mark acceleration and decent passing power. Under full throttle – such as when traveling down a highway entrance or when passing, the Versa does what is must do. The engine does whine when tapped to perform, but the CVT eases as various “steps” within the band curve. That a CVT is present won’t be noticed by the average driver, but it will be quickly detected by everyone else.

Electronic steering, front and rear stabilizer bars, and decent handling combine to give the Versa an improved driving feel over earlier models.

Competitive Set

We mentioned that the Versa’s competition is shrinking. That’s true with models such as the Ford Fiesta on the way out and likely the Chevrolet Sonic following. Fiat Chrysler doesn’t have a true subcompact offering, but it still offers the mini Fiat 500. The Mazda2 is gone in name only as it is rebadged as a Toyota.

The remaining players include the Honda Fit, Toyota Yaris, Volkswagen Golf, Hyundai Accent, and the Kia Rio. Mitsubishi and Subaru are two other manufacturers that are absent from the segment.

Our Recommendation

Rarely do we recommend a base model and that holds true for the Versa. Yes, it is the only trim with a manual, but if you’re an enthusiast, this isn’t the model to consider.

We think either the SV or SR model are good choices, but we’d pay the extra $600 for the latter, gaining such features as LED headlights with LED accent lights, 17-inch split 5-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels, a body-color rear spoiler, keyless entry with push-button start, and sport cloth seat trim. A $300 Convenience Package adds heated front seats and intelligent (adaptive) cruise control.

2020 Nissan Versa Specifications

Nissan	2020 Versa
Segment	Subcompact Car
Price Range	$14,730 to $18,240
Destination Charge	$925
Standard Engine	1.6-liter, I4
Horsepower	122 @ 6,300 RPM
Torque (lb.-ft.)	114 @ 4,000 RPM
Transmission	5-speed manual or CVT
Seating	5
Curb Weight (pounds)	2,599 to 2,729
Wheelbase (inches)	103.1
Length (inches)	177.0
Width (inches)	68.5
Height (inches)	57.3 to 57.7
Head room (f,r…inches)	39.5; 36.3
Leg room (f,r…inches)	44.5; 31.0
Shoulder room (f,r…inches)	53.1; 53.6
Hip room (f,r…inches)	50.9; 50.1
Storage (cubic feet)	14.7 to 15.0
Gross vehicle weight (pounds)	3,461 to 3,605
Towing (pounds)	NR
Payload (pounds)	NR
Fuel	Regular unleaded
Fuel Tank (gallons)	10.8
EPA Fuel MPG (city/highway/combined)	27/35/30(5MT); 32/40/35 (CRT)
Manufacturing Plant	Aguascalientes, Mexico

Data compiled by Tom Keegan. Specifications supplied by the manufacturer.

Highlights of the 2020 Nissan Versa

March 9, 2020 by admin Leave a Comment

Small cars typically offer big value and the 2020 Nissan Versa is an excellent example of such a model. Redesigned for 2020, the Versa is Nissan’s smallest car, a subcompact five-passenger sedan.

One of the big changes for the year is that the previously available Versa Note hatchback is no longer available. Instead, Nissan offers the 2020 Versa as a sedan only in S, SV, and SR trims. Prices range from $14,730 to $18,240, plus a $925 destination charge.

Highlights of the all-new 2020 Versa:

1. Launch of the third generation. The Versa name continues for yet another generation, this one marking its third. Previous generations included a hatchback, named the Versa Note, beginning in the second generation. This is the first time the hatchback isn’t offered with the sedan, but we’re not surprised as the Kicks crossover largely fills that spot, although at a significantly higher price point.

2. Modern look and feel. Previously, the Versa held the position as the cheapest car in America and it showed. This time around, Nissan decided to relinquish that title, as it poured additional resources into improving its smallest car. And it shows. The exterior aligns with the rest of Nissan’s sedan lineup, with a modern and clean design that’s shared with the compact Sentra, midsize Altima, and the flagship Maxima. Inside, the cabin features full power accessories and push-button start, beginning with the base model.

3. One engine choice; an improved one at that. Every 2020 Versa comes with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with 122 horsepower and 114 pound-feet of torque. That’s a noteworthy improvement over the 109 hp/107 lb.-ft. torque rating of the 2019 version. The base “S” model works with a 5-speed manual gearbox or customers may upgrade to the continuously variable transmission (CVT) available elsewhere. The Versa moves at a leisurely pace, but customers are rewarded with a stellar 32/40/35 mpg city/highway/combined rating for the CVT model.

4. Improved safety features. Safety is on the minds of new car buyers and the Versa does not disappoint. Besides the requisite rearview camera, the base S model includes frontal collision warning with automatic emergency braking, rear automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and automatic headlights. Blind-spot warning comes with the middle SV trim. Adaptive cruise control is bundled with heated front seats to form a Convenience Package ($300), which is available only with the top-trim SR edition. In fact, it is the only package offering available across the Versa line.

5. Standard and optional tech equipment. All models come with four speakers, a 7-inch touch-screen display, Siri Eyes Free, Bluetooth, and three USB ports. Available features include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone compatibility, and satellite radio.

6. Spacious cabin, roomy trunk. Now back to the cabin. Thanks to a slightly larger footprint, the Versa’s cabin is more spacious than before. You can fit four with ease or five in a pinch. Beginning with the SV trim, you’ll find a 60/40 split fold-down rear seat with access to the trunk. Its 15 cubic-foot trunk is very large for the segment, matching what many midsize sedans offer.

Versa Musings

A well-equipped 2020 Versa will cost under $20,000, and that’s a strong price point for first-time car shoppers. Not everyone wants a crossover, thus the 2020 Versa makes a compelling argument for a car. Its fresh style, an updated powertrain, modern interior, and advanced safety features make it one worth considering.

2020 Nissan Versa Specifications

Nissan	2020 Versa
Segment	Subcompact Car
Price Range	$14,730 to $18,240
Destination Charge	$925
Standard Engine	1.6-liter, I4
Horsepower	122 @ 6,300 RPM
Torque (lb.-ft.)	114 @ 4,000 RPM
Transmission	5-speed manual or CVT
Seating	5
Curb Weight (pounds)	2,599 to 2,729
Wheelbase (inches)	103.1
Length (inches)	177.0
Width (inches)	68.5
Height (inches)	57.3 to 57.7
Head room (f,r…inches)	39.5; 36.3
Leg room (f,r…inches)	44.5; 31.0
Shoulder room (f,r…inches)	53.1; 53.6
Hip room (f,r…inches)	50.9; 50.1
Storage (cubic feet)	14.7 to 15.0
Gross vehicle weight (pounds)	3,461 to 3,605
Towing (pounds)	NR
Payload (pounds)	NR
Fuel	Regular unleaded
Fuel Tank (gallons)	10.8
EPA Fuel MPG (city/highway/combined)	27/35/30(5MT); 32/40/35(Xtronic)
Manufacturing Plant	Aguascalientes, Mexico

Data compiled by Tom Keegan. Specifications supplied by the manufacturer.

Photo copyright Nissan Motors.

Toyota Yaris: Small Footprint; Big Value

January 1, 2020 by admin 1 Comment

The 2020 Toyota Yaris is subcompact model with hatchback and sedan choices.

If you take heed to various Internet reports, you may think that new car ownership is far beyond your reach. Indeed, in May 2019, Kelly Blue Book reported the average transaction price for a light vehicle (passenger vehicle) was $37,185.

But the average transaction price can be certainly misleading, as it is based on what consumers choose, including luxury models and well-equipped pickup trucks. The market for sub-$20,000 vehicles remains strong with most manufacturers offering multiple models. For its part, Toyota is represented by three models, including two Yaris subcompacts: a sedan and a hatchback.

That Toyota still offers any models priced below $20,000 is amazing, especially as most come with its Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 package of driver-assist technology features. These safety items aid drivers in avoiding accidents, while also reducing their insurance premiums. But the tech is not cheap: it can cost thousands of dollars per vehicle to offer a full suite. Toyota offers the tech to stay ahead of federal requirements and to supply consumers with what they want.

As for the Yaris, it doesn’t have TSS 2.0. Instead, it features low-speed forward collision warning, and forward automatic emergency braking. Why the omission of adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and other features? For the simple reason the Yaris isn’t really a Toyota.

Yes, the Yaris is branded by Toyota, but it is the work of Mazda, which is partly owned by Toyota and remains a strategic partner for several projects, including this model and an upcoming jointly owned factory in Alabama. The current-generation Yaris, introduced in 2017, replaces a Toyota designed and built-in-France vehicle. This one originally was developed for Scion and is still sold as the Mazda 2 in many other markets, but not in the U.S.

Design Highlights

Mazda’s design influence is all over the Yaris. In fact, save for the appropriate Toyota badging and thin upper grille, everything about the Yaris is a Mazda.

That’s not just a badge thing either, especially if you’re already a fan of the brand’s KODO (soul of motion) design scheme. The look includes curving lines, rounded edges, and pulled-in corners. It adds a distinctive look to each model, adding personality too.

The list of standard features is impressive with the hatchback as this model comes with fog lamps, heated side mirrors, alloy wheels, and a rear spoiler. LED lights are standard with the top trim model.

Inside, the cabin is a cut above what you’d expect in this segment with its split dashboard, choice materials, and spacious door pockets. Where cabins from another era screamed “cheap,” the Yaris’ interior imparts an upscale vibe.

The front seats aren’t especially comfortable, however, especially for tall passengers. My six-foot-frame felt alright, until I realized thigh support was lacking an inch or two of room that would have been desirable. As for the rear compartment, the space back there is also quite small, suitable best for a pair of youngsters. We think most people will opt for the hatch and the extra utility gained by folding down the rear seat.

The list of standard interior features includes full power accessories, push-button start, air conditioning, and cloth seats. Opt for the top-trim model and you’ll gain a tilt-and-telescopic steering column, imitation leather seats, and automatic climate control.

Tech and Safety

You won’t find lots of high tech features the Yaris, but you’ll enjoy enough to find the experience satisfying. At least that’s our opinion.

The 2020 Yaris has a 7-inch touch-screen display, a six-speaker audio system, Bluetooth, two USB ports and now comes with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone compatibility. The latter choice is new for this year and is a welcome feature, especially with the included turn-by-turn navigation features.

As for the display, it won’t look familiar to Toyota owners as the Mazda layout was kept with this model. Still, the panel features big icons and may also be managed by a control knob.

Toyota products also have a standard suite of safety features offered under the Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 umbrella. But because the Yaris is, in fact, a Mazda, those features are not included with this model. TSS 2.0 is one of the more advanced packages offered and includes lane keep assist and adaptive cruise control. Although those features are absent, the Yaris does have low-speed automatic emergency braking with collision avoidance warning.

Under the Hood & On the Road

All versions of the 2020 Yaris are motivated by a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine. This one develops 106 horsepower and 103 pound-feet of torque and works with a six-speed automatic transmission (a six-speed manual gearbox is standard with the Yaris L sedan).

The Yaris is geared toward efficiency, with a 40 mpg highway rating. Keep this point in mind when pressing down on the gas pedal and the return on your effort is a token response, at best. Indeed, the Yaris simply shines as a Point A to Point B vehicle, as it delivers just enough propulsion to move this diminutive model.

We give the Yaris props for its decent steering and nimble handling. The brakes are firm, but we should remind you that the ride is bumpy at times – this vehicle simply isn’t large enough to consume most abrasions. Kudos for the manufacturer for delivering a smooth-shifting automatic too.

Choosing Your Yaris

Toyota offers the 2020 Yaris sedan in L, LE, and XLE trims and the hatchback in LE and XLE trims. The sedan starts at $15,650 and tops out at $18,750. The hatchback costs either $17,750 or $18,750. All prices do not include the $945 freight charge. There are no package options available, therefore you won’t find such amenities as a premium audio system, leather seats, or a 115-volt outlet.

Our pick for either body style is the top-trim XLE. This model delivers everything the Yaris offers and at a final cost below $20,000. Also, we’d choose the hatchback as it has more cargo-carrying space than the sedan.

Competitive Set: Hyundai Accent, Kia Rio, Chevrolet Sonic, Ford Fiesta, Nissan Versa, Volkswagen Golf, and Honda Fit.

2020 Toyota Yaris Specifications

Toyota	2020 Yaris
Segment	Subcompact car
Price Range	$15,650 to $18,750
Destination Charge	$945
Standard Engine	1.5-liter, I4
Horsepower	106 @ 6,000 rpm
Torque (lb.-ft.)	103 @ 4,000 rpm
Transmission	Six-speed manual or automatic
Seating	5
Curb Weight (pounds)	From 2,385
Wheelbase (inches)	101.2
Length (inches)	171.2
Width (inches)	66.7
Height (inches)	58.7
Head room (f,r…inches)	38.2, 36.8
Legroom (f,r…inches)	41.9, 34.4
Shoulder room (f,r…inches)	53.1, 50.0
Hip room (f,r…inches)	48.6, 49.5
Storage (cubic feet)	15.9 (hatchback); 13.5 (sedan)
Gross vehicle weight rating (pounds)	NR
Towing (pounds)	NR
Payload (pounds)	NR
Fuel	regular
Fuel Tank (gallons)	11.6
EPA Fuel MPG (city/highway/combined)	32/40/35
Manufacturing Plant	Mexico

Data compiled by Tom Keegan. Specifications supplied by the manufacturer.

See Also — Highlights of the 2020 Hyundai Accent

Highlights of the 2020 Hyundai Accent

September 23, 2019 by admin 7 Comments

The 2020 Hyundai Accent nows offers a CVT.

The Hyundai Accent is the smallest of all cars sold by this Korean manufacturer. It sits beneath a cohort of compact Hyundai models, including the Elantra, Veloster, and Ioniq.

Introduced in 1994, the 2020 Hyundai Accent represents the third year of this fifth-generation model. A hatchback version is no longer available in the U.S., so that leaves the sedan as the lone body style available.

Although small in size, the Accent is big in style, available amenities, and efficiency. To that end, we’ll look at some of the outstanding facts about this model.

2020 Hyundai Accent Highlights

1. Highly affordable.

You can purchase a new car for under $20,000, which is the price point for the 2020 Hyundai Accent. The base model comes in nearer to $16,000 with the destination charge. When careful negotiation and keeping a sharp eye out for incentives, we think you may be able to get your final cost down to about $15,000.

2. Three trims to consider.

Hyundai offers the 2020 Accent in SE ($15,195), SEL ($17,550), and Limited ($19,300) trims. Add $1,100 for the CVT on the base model. You’ll add another $930 for the destination cost.

3. Cutting-edge style.

Econoboxes of old were uninteresting, predictable, and essentially devoid of styling. Not so with the Accent. This model has a bold grille, wraparound headlights, distinct cutouts for the available fog lamps, a high beltline, fashionable wheels, and a notched trunk. The interior, although offering its share of plastic materials, includes some soft-touch fabrics too. Some cars scream “budget,” while the Accent whispers “affordability.”

4. More power under the hood.

This year, the 2020 Hyundai Accent goes for more power, thanks in part to a continuously variable transmission, which replaces the previous automatic gearbox. This model makes 130 horsepower and 119 pound-feet of torque, up from the previous 120 horsepower and 113 pound-feet of torque. Not only is there more power at the ready, but fuel economy climbs 4 mpg with it.

5. Amenities that surprise.

You’ll have to opt for the Limited model to enjoy the full range of amenities available, but they are there. Things like keyless entry with push-button start, heated front seats, and automatic temperature control. Even something so desirable as a 7-inch touch-screen display appears with the SEL trim.

6. Room for two or four or five.

Subcompact cars, including the 2020 Hyundai Accent, are typically very comfortable for the driver and front passenger, offering ample head, shoulder, hip, and legroom. The back seat is where things get interesting. On paper, it can fit three, but it is more comfortable for two. Even then, legroom is limited, therefore that space might be best for young teens or children in booster/car seats. The trunk measures 13.7 cubic feet. What’s especially helpful is that the rear 60/40 split-bench seat folds down, which extends storage space into the cabin.

7. No lack of tech features.

The standard tech package includes a 5-inch touch-screen display, a CD player, and a four-speaker audio system. You’ll also find an auxiliary jack and a USB smartphone connection. Move up to the SEL and you’ll find the larger screen, six speakers, satellite radio, and smartphone compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Hyundai adds a pair of USB charging points too.

8. Very limited driver-assist technologies.

Let’s face it: we find driver-assist tech helpful in many cases. The Accent offers forward collision-avoidance alert on the Limited trim, but there are no other aids available. This lack of advanced tech isn’t unusual for the class, therefore if it is important to you, then you’ll want to upgrade to one of Hyundai’s compact models for availability. We think the automaker will add more features soon, but not with the 2020 Hyundai Accent.

Making a Case

The lack of advanced safety tech notwithstanding, the 2020 Hyundai Accent does what it needs to do to supply a gateway to the brand. It doesn’t cost much more than a late-model compact used car and it comes with longer warranties than most competitors. For these reasons, Hyundai is worth a look, with many small and affordable models available for your inspection.

Competitive Set: Toyota Yaris, Honda Fit, Fiat 500, Nissan Versa, Mitsubishi Mirage, Volkswagen Golf, Chevrolet Sonic, and the Kia Rio.

2020 Hyundai Accent Specifications

Hyundai	2020 Accent
Segment	Subcompact car
Price Range	$15,195 to $19,300
Destination Charge	$930
Standard Engine	1.6-liter, I4
Horsepower	120 @ 6,300 rpm
Torque (lb.-ft.)	113 @ 4,850 rpm
Transmission	Six-speed manual or CVT
Seating	5
Curb Weight (pounds)	2,502 to 2,701
Wheelbase (inches)	101.6
Length (inches)	172.6
Width (inches)	68.1
Height (inches)	57.1
Head room (f,r…inches)	38.9, 37.3
Leg room (f,r…inches)	42.1 33.5
Shoulder room (f,r…inches)	54.2, 53.7
Hip room (f,r…inches)	51.7 50.8
Storage (cubic feet)	13.7
Gross vehicle weight rating (pounds)	3,439 to 3,638
Towing (pounds)	NR
Payload (pounds)	NR
Fuel	regular
Fuel Tank (gallons)	11.9
EPA Fuel MPG (city/highway/combined)	29/39/33 (MT); 33/41/36 (IVT)
Manufacturing Plant	Ulsan, South Korea

Data compiled by Tom Keegan. Specifications supplied by the manufacturer.

See Also — N Line Debut: 2019 Hyundai Elantra GT

Photo copyright Hyundai Motors.

History of the Honda Civic

July 5, 2019 by admin 6 Comments

The first-generation Honda Civic, a right-hand hatchback.
(Public domain photo via Wikimedia)

A casual look at the automotive landscape over the past half-century and you will see how the Japanese automakers have penetrated the US market to become the automotive powerhouses that they are known as today.

From humble beginnings in the late 1950s to its market strength today, companies such as Honda, Toyota and Nissan have introduced dozens of models, including some that are the industry’s best sellers. Honda itself has achieved great respect in America for introducing fuel-efficient and high-quality small cars including the Civic.

Originally a subcompact model, the Civic has grown into a compact line with near midsize interior room, a vehicle that is also built in America.

American Honda History

Years before Honda began selling automobiles in the United States, this Japanese manufacturer established a U.S. subsidiary, American Honda Motor Co. in 1959. The company established its headquarters in Los Angeles and immediately began to market its line of motorcycles. By the mid-1960s it was an established leader, adding trail bikes to reach a younger audience.

In 1969, Honda introduced its first car, the N600, to the Hawaiian market and then to three western states, including California. Originally sold through motorcycle dealerships, Honda realized that Americans preferred shopping for cars through car dealerships, something it began to do in 1973 as the Honda Civic went on sale.

The fourth-generation Civic was sold from 1987 to 1991.
(Public domain photo via Wikimedia)

First-Generation Honda Civic

Honda’s entrance into the US car market was perfect timing. When the Honda Civic, its first widely available model went on sale, America was experiencing the first of two gas shortages that sent up fuel prices and had consumers looking at smaller, fuel-efficient cars. The Honda Civic was an all-new model, replacing the Honda 1300 it had sold in Japan.

The original Honda Civic was introduced in 1972 as a 1973 model, that vehicle was available as a coupe, a three-door hatchback, and a five-door hatchback. The first-generation Honda Civic featured an 1169 cc engine and had power disc brakes, reclining front bucket seats, and an AM/FM radio, equipment not offered or costing customers extra in competing, mostly American models. Immediately, Honda established a reputation for providing value, laying the foundation for model and brand success.

Winning New Customers

Honda’s success with the Civic can be attributed to several things including delivering a high-quality vehicle at a competitive price. Three years after the Civic was introduced, Honda stretched the hatchback’s wheelbase and created the Accord. Both models fueled Honda’s ascendancy and enabled this Japanese automaker to conserve costs by interchanging many parts between the two models.

Honda’s strategy with the Civic also included updating this vehicle frequently with product cycles as short as four years where six years was the industry norm. This allowed Honda to set the pace among small car producers and win new customers to the brand.

The seventh-generation Civic was offered from 2000 to 2005.
(Public domain photo via Wikimedia)

The second-generation model was introduced in 1979, coming in larger and with a 1335 cc engine. It offered a four-speed automatic and a five-speed manual transmission, something only its Japanese competitors offered.

Honda continued to build up and out the Civic line, through the 1980s and 1990s, adding different body styles including wagon and two-seat variants. In 1996 a natural gas model was introduced.

Modern Honda Civics

By 2000, the Honda Civic had completed its sixth generation, with a newly refreshed seventh=generation model released just before the turn of the millennium. That vehicle was sold in coupe and sedan configurations with a special Si three-door hatchback also available. It also marked the beginning of the Civic’s move from a subcompact to a compact model, following the Accord’s earlier move to a midsize model from a compact.

The seventh-generation Honda Civic also welcomed its first hybrid model, outfitted with a 1.3-liter gasoline engine and paired with a five-speed manual or a continuously variable transmission. The 2003 Honda Civic Hybrid was rated at 38 mpg in the city and 45 mpg on the highway.

Honda began stretching out the model generations for the Civic beginning with the seventh-generation edition, taking five years before the eighth-generation model was introduced. By then, the Honda brand was adding new models including its first pickup truck and a midsize crossover model.

The tenth-generation Civic includes a sporty coupe.

The eighth-generation model, introduced in 2005, assigned the coupe and sedan to one platform and the hatchback to a different platform. Throughout the 2000s the Honda Civic maintained its status as one of the top 10 best-selling cars in the country, typically competing with the Toyota Corolla as the top-selling compact.

In 2011, with the introduction of the ninth-generation model, Honda continued to offer gasoline and natural gas models, and also brought back the Civic Hybrid it had discontinued briefly a few years earlier. In 2015, Honda rolled out the tenth-generation Civic, available in sedan, coupe, five-door hatchback, Si trims, and Type-R models.

Tuners and Modifiers

Through the years, the Honda Civic has won numerous awards including Car of the Year recognition from Road & Track, Motor Trend and Automobile magazines. It has also been recognized as a top tuner car, a category that describes vehicles that are fun to drive and modify, according to Popular Mechanics.

Mugen Motorworks, a wholly-owned Honda subsidiary, has long been at the forefront of tuning Honda engines including those that power the Civic. Civic fans are known for swapping out their original engines for higher-displacement Honda engines in a bid to compete with the Volkswagen GTI, Mitsubishi’s Lancer Evolution, the Scion tC, and other models.

More than four decades have passed since the Honda Civic took to America’s roadways. This model has grown and evolved through the years, but it hasn’t lost its status as having one of the best resale values of any car on the road.

Little Car, Big Value: 2018 Hyundai Accent

May 8, 2018 by admin 5 Comments

Entry-level Hyundai Accent is new and impressive.

If “entry level” represents the 2018 Hyundai Accent, then you find yourself in a laudable position. Hyundai’s smallest model has always had its accent on value, but its latest version is handsome, nimble and supplies a quiet cabin.

The Hyundai Accent remains one of the few new models you can buy for about $15,000 with a well-equipped Limited coming in at just under $20,000. Now in its 24th year and launching its fifth generation, the latest model comes as a five-door sedan only. Canada and Mexico continue to enjoy a five-door hatchback too.

2018 Hyundai Accent Overview

The 2018 Accent is a front-wheel drive, subcompact model with room for five. It is available in three trims: SE, SEL and Limited. My test model was the Accent Limited with a final price of $19,905.

Hyundai is always aggressive with its retail cash and/or financing offer. We have not seen a lease on the Accent in about a year — my recommendation is to buy one. If you must finance, you will likely acquire the title within five years. That leaves another five years of Hyundai’s powertrain warranty to keep you covered.

2018 Hyundai Accent

Hyundai Accent by the Trim

Customarily, I review models as a whole, leaning heavily on the trim presented to me. That almost always means the top trim, which also means you do not always have an accurate picture of the models available.

So, instead, we will break things down by trim and include pricing information. However, we do not include the $885 destination fee or taxes, tags, insurance or other expenses. As for discounts and other specials, you will need to head over to the Hyundai retail site for the current details.

Accent SE ($14,995)

All 2018 Accent models come with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with an output of 130 horsepower and 119 pound-feet of torque. Hyundai pairs this engine with a six-speed manual transmission. If you prefer the six-speed automatic standard elsewhere, add $1,000 to your price.

Standard exterior equipment includes power side mirrors and 15-inch steel wheels. Inside, you will find power windows, power door locks, a tilt steering column, air conditioning, cloth seats and a 60/40 split-folding rear bench seat.

Tech features include a 5-inch color display, a four-speaker audio system, Bluetooth, and USB and auxiliary audio ports. Among the safety highlights you will find a rearview camera with dynamic parking guidelines.

2018 Hyundai Accent

Accent SEL ($17,295)

As is usually the case, moving away from the base model brings with it important benefits. Typically, this is where we recommend shoppers start their search as there are multiple amenities not available elsewhere offered there.

To begin, the Accent SEL comes with automatic headlights and puts disc brakes at all four corners. You will also find heated side mirrors and 15-inch alloy wheels. Inside, Hyundai adds a center console with a sliding cover and includes a front passenger seatback pocket.

Among the tech items, there is a six-speaker audio system with satellite radio. Hyundai also brings in Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a rear USB charging port and a seven-inch color display. The Android and Apply smartphone features are a big deal for many drivers.

2018 Hyundai Accent

Accent Limited ($18,895)

The Accent Limited is the model that seems most like the Sonata, Hyundai’s popular midsize sedan. In fact, if you called it a “Baby Sonata” you would not be too off the mark. This model has chrome touches on the grille and beltline molding and LED daytime running lights and LED tail lamps.

Further, Hyundai includes projector headlights, front fog lights, 17-inch alloy wheels and a power moonroof. Inside, Hyundai supplies a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, heated front seats, automatic temperature control and an information display.

On the tech front you will find a proximity key with push-button start (the car senses your presence and unlocks the driver’s door), a hands-free trunk and the Blue Link connected car system. Here, you get a three-year complimentary Blue Link subscription, what provides such features as remote engine start (not on the manual), in-car maintenance scheduling, remote lock and unlock and car finder. It works with your iPhone, Apple Watch, Amazon Alexa, Android, Google Assistant and smartwatches powered with Wear OS by Google.

The Accent Limited also supplies forward collision-avoidance assist, not available on the other trims.

2018 Hyundai Accent

Packages and Accessories

What you won’t find with with any Hyundai Accent are packages as everything comes built into the respective trim.

On the other hand, you can opt for dealer-installed accessories, including a cargo tray ($80), mudguards ($115) and carpeted floor mats ($125). The Accent’s appeal is for budget-minded owners and it succeeds in that endeavor.

On the Road: 2018 Hyundai Accent

Regardless of trim, all models have a 1.6-liter, four-cylinder engine. With an output of 130 horsepower, you will enjoy considerably more horsepower than what similar-sized engines produced just a generation ago. Hyundai uses gasoline direct injection, delivering gasoline directly into the combustion chamber of each cylinder.

The technology means your Accent moves faster and burns less gas, although we noticed the engine is loud under hard acceleration. And as for efficiency, we’ve seen larger engines in bigger cars return a higher number than the 38 mpg highway for the Accent.

Although we cannot count on the workings of the manual, we can do with the automatic. The automated gearbox is best operated in drive mode where the shift pattern is cleaner. Yes, we noticed the Accent’s transmission has a tendency to stretch out gear shifts longer than what we like and at times hunt around for the right gear under full throttle.

Steering is light and loose feeling, not exactly supplying certainty or clarity on the road. Working in the Accent’s favor is its size, which makes it easy to enter and leave tight spaces. The Accent won’t win plaudits for ride comfort, particularly on washboard surfaces. At least you’ll know which portions of the road to notify the DOT of needed repairs. The front seats are supportive with ample head and leg room. Rear seat access is tight, but once you’re seated that space easily rivals some midsize cars. Just don’t expect to seat three adults, even in a pinch.

2018 Hyundai Accent

Hyundai Accent Parting Thoughts

The Hyundai Accent is the attainable car for consumers who might also consider a late-model used car. That said, if you are in a favorable financial position, then the Accent Limited is the best choice, simply for its many amenities.

Hyundai remains strong in the car space, even as some competing manufacturers pull back or limit their offers. Not only will you find the compact Elantra and midsize Sonata sedans, but a line of compact electrified vehicles under the Ioniq umbrella. This spring, the Veloster Coupe returns after a one-year absence, bringing with it a turbo and the first expression of the brand’s “N” performance line.

Finally, always seeming to work in the Hyundai scheme of things is its class-leading warranties. From its fully transferable new car warranty to its lengthy powertrain warranty and onto its roadside assistance plan, Hyundai offers maximum protection combined with a minimum price. That represents value with a capital V.

2018 Hyundai Accent

2018 Hyundai Accent Specifications

Hyundai	2018 Accent
Segment	Subcompact sedan
Base Sticker Price	$14,995 ( plus $885 destination charge)
Price as tested	$19,905
Standard Engine	1.6-liter, inline-four
Horsepower	130 @ 6,000 RPMs
Torque (lb.-ft.)	119 @ 4,850 RPMs
Transmission	Six-speed manual or automatic
Seating	5
Curb Weight (pounds)	3,439 to 3,638
Wheelbase (inches)	101.6
Length (inches)	172.6
Width (inches)	68.1
Height (inches)	57.1
Head room (f,r…inches)	38.9; 37.3
Leg room (f,r…inches)	42.1, 33.5
Shoulder room (f,r…inches)	54.2, 53.7
Hip room (f,r…inches)	51.7, 50.8
Storage (cubic feet)	13.7
Gross vehicle weight (pounds)	3,439 to 3,638
Towing (pounds)	NR
Payload (pounds)	937 to 979
Fuel	Regular
Fuel Tank (gallons)	11.9
EPA Fuel MPG (city/highway)	28/37 (manual); 28/38 (automatic)
Manufacturing Plant	Ulsan, Korea

See Also — Hyundai Kona: New B-Segment SUV

PHEV: 2018 Mini Cooper Countryman

March 13, 2018 by admin 3 Comments

A plug-in hybrid electric vehicle for the Countryman line.

2018 Mini Cooper S E Countryman ALL4 — The PHEV Countryman delivers a 12-mile, all-electric range under a full charge.

The Mini brand hardly needs an introduction, the quintessential British automotive marque known for its ultra-small cars. Now owned by BMW, Mini has thrived since it was sold to the German company in the 1990s. Indeed, in 2017, Mini distributed 371,881 vehicles worldwide, its best year ever.

The US market has been a tough one for Mini as consumers continue to gravitate toward larger models, something the brand doesn’t offer. That said, a new Countryman began easing brand losses in 2017, as sales of Mini’s largest model rose by 17 percent.

The 2018 Countryman line includes six models with front-wheel drive standard and all-wheel drive available. Further, you’ll find turbocharged three- and four-cylinder models along with manual and automatic transmission choices. One of the six Countryman models is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle, which is also the test subject featured here.

2018 Mini Cooper S E Countryman ALL4

2018 Mini Cooper S E Countryman ALL4 The Mini Cooper S E Countryman ALL4 is the name for the new model, a four-door all-wheel drive vehicle. Just let the name sink in for a moment. Is it catchy? Is it memorable? I have to answer both those questions with the negative. Indeed, each time I shared updates on Twitter or Instagram about the vehicle, I found myself calling it something else — its full name was simply too hard to remember.

Just so you know, “Cooper” is automatically added to the Mini name for all modern models. Named after racing legend John Cooper, you wouldn’t be wrong calling the brand “Mini Cooper” although sales information and most references simply use the “Mini” term.

As for the series of letters and names with this model, here is the breakdown:

S — Stands for “sport,” representing most performance models from Mini.

E — As you might guess, “E” is for electric.

Countryman — The model line family. Countryman and Clubman are essentially the same models, although the former is heavier and more expensive than the latter.

ALL4 — Mini’s term for all-wheel drive.

2018 Mini Cooper S E Countryman ALL4

Highlights of the Electrified Countryman

1. Traditional design.

The Countryman is a handsome model and certainly not “mini” in size. Unlike the diminutive Mini hardtop, the Countryman is a subcompact and a fairly sizable one at that. Overall, its dimensions rival the Volkswagen Golf and that’s a good thing for people who crave the room.

2. Substantial weight.

Most small cars have a lightweight, tinny feel to them. Not so with the Countryman. Drop the hood, close each door and bring down the liftgate and you’ll feel the weightiness, even some resistance. Likewise, you’ll also experience a reassuring thud. Although the Countryman is small, it is also heavier than you might expect. And more so with the PHEV as this model approaches two tons.

3. Build quality.

2018 Mini Cooper S E Countryman ALL4 Manufacturer build quality is up across the industry, although some small cars use generous amounts of plastics and scant soft-touch materials. Never mind the poorly fitted panels you’ll occasionally behold. The Countryman’s cabin is absolutely a cut above the rest and likely cut from the same cloth as the BMW brand, at least when it comes to the choice of materials used and overall quality.

4. Make it a hybrid.

So, how does the Countryman S E qualify as a hybrid? By adding a permanent-magnet synchronous AC motor and a 7.6-kWh lithium-ion battery pack to the drivetrain. Mini mates this motor to a turbocharged three-cylinder gas engine and a six-speed automatic transmission. With the combined power at the ready, this Mini delivers maximum performance of 221 horsepower and 284 pound-feet of torque. Chew on those numbers for a moment.

On the Road

The gas engine alone is peppy, although it doesn’t match the turbocharged 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine found elsewhere. Under normal driving conditions, the engine supplies sufficient kick. Under hard acceleration and with the electric motor kicking in, the Countryman “S” lives up to its name.

The all-wheel drive system may be the best among mainstream brands, but this shouldn’t be too surprising, given the BMW relationship. Otherwise, the Countryman delivers a fun driving experience, whether you’re zipping down the straightaway or rocking the twisties. You’ll find weighty steering, nimble handling and firm braking — not unlike what you’d enjoy with performance models such as the Ford Focus ST and Volkswagen Golf GTI.

2018 Mini Cooper S E Countryman ALL4

Let’s Go Electric!

BMW’s electrification efforts are well known, represented primarily by its “i” line of models, the I3 and the I8. Here, you have a choice of pure-electric models or electric vehicles with a range extender, i.e. a small gas engine/generator to keep these hybrids moving.

With the Countryman PHEV, Mini went the traditional PHEV route where the gas engine is the primary motivator and the electric motor supplements same. Only in this case, Mini went with a system that seems too mild even for this small vehicle.

To wit, the electrified Countryman has only a 12-mile all-electric range. This means once it reaches a full charge, you can activate a switch located on the center console and drive on electric power until the battery is depleted. This represents the shortest range of any PHEV. Specifically, the Countryman has about half the range of the Toyota Prius Prime and one-quarter the range of the Chevrolet Volt.

Sadly, even a partial charge isn’t enough to “convince” the system to run on full electric power. I found that out on the third of three charges using public charge stations. The first two times the PHEV traveled 12 to 14 miles as expected, but the third time I was denied as I hadn’t waited the full 2.5 or 3 hours for a full charge.

Instead, after two hours of charging, I had to hit the road. But I wasn’t expecting to discover my efforts thwarted when the system turned down my request to go electric. At least in the other models I’ve tested with just a partial charge you could go “all electric” for at least a few miles.

2018 Mini Cooper S E Countryman ALL4

Parting Thoughts: Mini Countryman PHEV

Mini introduced a fully-electric concept vehicle in 2017 with plans to put it on the road in 2019. It represents the second stage in the brand’s electrification efforts, one this writer hopes will result in improvements in the PHEV.

Sadly, the added price of the PHEV isn’t enough to justify its limited range and small gas tank. My test model came in at exactly $40,000, adding $3,200 to the base price. That base price is approximately $3,600 more than the Volt and $9,700 more than the Prius Prime.

Sure, the Mini can tout its premium look and feel, but the high price and small EV benefits aren’t enough to justify this model.

2018 Mini Cooper S E Countryman ALL4

Sticker price from $36,800 (plus $850 destination)
Price as tested: $40,000
Seats 5 occupants
Engine: 1.5-liter twin-turbo I3 gas
134 horsepower
162 foot-pounds of torque
87 horsepower; 122 pound-feet of torque: electric motor
221 horsepower; 284 pound-feet of torque: total system power
Six-speed automatic transmission
Wheelbase: 105.1 inches
Length: 169.8 inches
Width: 71.7 inches
Height: 61.4 inches
Passenger volume: 94 cubic feet
Storage volume: 15.9/48.5 cubic feet
Towing capacity: NR
EPA: 27 mpg
Premium grade gasoline
Fuel tank: 9.5 gallons
Curb weight: 3,948 pounds
IIHS safety rating: Good; incomplete ratings
Limited vehicle warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles
Powertrain warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles
Corrosion warranty: 12 years/unlimited miles
Vehicle assembly: Louisville, Kentucky USA

See Also — Maximum Fun With a Mini Countryman

New Car Affordability: Toyota Yaris

April 15, 2015 by admin 5 Comments

The smallest model in Toyota’s broad product arsenal is the Yaris, a subcompact three- or five-door hatchback. It competes in a segment dominated by Nissan and will soon find in-house competition in the form of the 2016 Scion iA.

2015 Toyota Yaris

Whoever said that Toyota Motors is not an interesting company? The largest manufacturer of passenger vehicles in the world has assembly plants across the globe and makes good use of that manufacturing base to send its cars to a variety of markets, large and small.

The Toyota Yaris is a subcompact hatchback, built in France and shipped to the United States. Where Peugeot, Citroen and Renault have not found a way to resume US marketing, this French-built three- or five-door hatchback has. And for that reason the smallest of all Toyotas has earned a place in a segment that is dominated by the Nissan Versa and Versa Note, Ford Fiesta and the Hyundai Accent, to name a few.

2015 Toyota Yaris

A 2015 Toyota Yaris showed up one week recently and it happened to be the same day that a Nissan Versa Note also made an appearance. Subcompact media fleet cars are not that common — manufacturers know that these models are not representative of their brands as they are cheap and usually make use of older technologies, such as the four-speed automatic transmission offered with the Yaris. Nevertheless, I always assure the manufacturer representatives that I will give these models a fair review — there are people who want an inexpensive new model and these tiny people movers give them that access.

One more side note before we look at the model at hand — I was in New York when Scion introduced two new models, including a Mazda-based iA subcompact that hits Toyota showrooms this fall. Straight out I will tell you that the Scion poses a big threat to the Yaris as the iA is sportier and more refined than the Toyota. If your Toyota dealer still sells Scion, you will be able to see what I mean beginning this September.

Toyota introduced the Yaris for the 2007 model year, what replaced the previous Echo. That earlier subcompact was an odd duck, with an exaggerated roof line and narrow proportions. The first generation Yaris ran for five years and included a larger, sedan variant. Beginning with its overhaul in 2012, the sedan was dropped, leaving a pair of hatchbacks for customer inspection.

2015 Toyota Yaris

View manufacturer details and pricing

2015 Toyota Yaris

One Engine, Two Older Transmissions

Toyota keeps things simple with the Yaris, by offering one engine choice, a 1.5-liter in-line four-cylinder engine making 106 horsepower. Toyota pairs this engine with a five-speed manual and also offers a four-speed automatic. Both transmissions seem dated in this era of near universal six-speed gearboxes, especially the automatic. But designing a new transmission to pair with the small four would be costly and with each model retailing for under $17,000, Toyota must realize that the price point trumps everything. Besides, this model gets as much as 37 mpg or 3 mpg less than the comparable Versa Note with a continuously variable transmission.

The styling differences between subcompact hatchbacks is quite small. Every model has a small fascia and swept-back hoods and roof lines. The roof tapers to the lift gate and then plunges to the rear bumper. What sets the Versa apart from the pack, at least up front, is its more subdued version of Toyota’s design language, with a small upper grille and an oversized lower grille. Furthermore, its distinctive and singular front wiper is interesting — both for its visual statement and massive proportion. A small wiper to the rear seems like the polar opposite and it doesn’t quite cover the entire glass surface.

2015 Toyota Yaris

Yaris Trim Levels

You can buy the 2015 Toyota Yaris in L, LE and SE editions. The base three-door is priced from $14,485 and the base five-door starts at $15,945. The LE edition is priced from $16,505 (3-door) and $16,880 (5-door). Choose the SE edition and you will pay $16,820. The SE is only available with the five-door body style.

Get in behind the wheel of the Toyota Yaris and you take in the simplicity that defines this class. Sure, there are some creature comforts available, including a tilt steering wheel, air conditioning, power windows and door locks, power steering, and a 60-40 split folding rear seat. Daytime running lights are standard across the model line.

Also available — depending on trim level — is a leather-trimmed steering wheel, a sport meter and a tachometer. Choose the SE edition and you get these features plus a more refined sport fabric and piano black accents. Entune Audio with a 6.1-inch color display is standard across the model line. A sport-tuned suspension, a solid stabilizer bar and larger four-wheel disc brakes up front are also an SE hallmark.

For 2015, the Toyota Yaris gains an optional dealer-installed navigation system. Bluetooth connectivity and a USB port are also included.

2015 Toyota Yaris

New Car Affordability

Spartan may have defined base models of a generation ago, but today’s drivers expect and demand features that previously were not sold in this segment. Essentially, you get many of the higher-end technologies and options sold in more expensive cars in vehicles that cost under $17,000. That makes for an attainable price point for people who prefer to buy new and not settle for a Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicle from their dealer.

The driver’s seat is fairly comfortable and probably can be endured by most people. Of course, that is an important consideration when buying any vehicle for long term use. The instrument panel and center stack are sensibly designed with everything in easy reach. Three oversized knobs manage the climate control with a 12-volt outlet, USB and auxiliary input connections immediately underneath.

Seating is for five and five can ride in a pinch, although shoulder and hip room are tight in the back. For people who need optimum leg room in a small car, the compact Corolla is the choice here. And that Corolla comes in at a price point that stays below $20,000, what can easily siphon sales from the Yaris.

2015 Toyota Yaris

On the Road

Engage the transmission and this little people hauler moves carefully from a dead stop. The engine strains at first, but as the gears move up the motor settles down. That makes for a notable difference between the Yaris and the Versa Note, the latter equipped with a continuously variable transmission that causes the engine to bellow as you move up to highway speeds. But both models have their fair share of wind noise, what seeps in through the front windows and is best cancelled by playing the audio system. Refinement isn’t standard in this class if it is available at all.

The Yaris handles as expected and that means it is uninvolved, but it gets the job done. There is no amount of finesse present, but the electric-assisted steering does make for sharp and tight turns. That’s a desirable attribute when you need to maneuver into the tightest places, where most larger cars dare not tread.

The Toyota Yaris meets the requirements of drivers who have limited means and are simply looking for a way to move between two points. It offers average storage space behind the rear seat and that rear seat does not fold completely flat. Yet, if you need to move boxes, take camping gear or carry groceries, the extra room is usable and comes in handy.

As previously mentioned, the upcoming Scion iA will present strong competition for the Yaris when it shows up this fall. The Toyota Corolla should also be considered as it offers excellent rear seating room, a very good price and even better fuel economy. That may explain why Toyota is only shipping 25,000 copies of the Yaris to North America this year, knowing that consumers have other choices within the Toyota fold.

2015 Toyota Yaris

Sticker price from $15,945
Price as tested: $18,000 (estimated)
Seats 5 occupants
1.5-liter 16-valve in-line four-cylinder gasoline engine
106 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm
103 foot-pounds of torque @ 4,200 rpm
2.95 inches bore by 3.33 inches stroke
Engine compression ratio: 10:54-to-1
Four-speed automatic transmission
Wheelbase: 98.8 inches
Length: 155.5 inches
Width: 66.7 inches
Height: 59.4 inches
Passenger volume: 85.1 cubic feet
Storage volume: 15.6 cubic feet
Towing capacity: NR
EPA: 30 mpg city, 36 mpg highway
Regular grade gasoline
Fuel tank: 11.1 gallons
Curb weight: From 2,335 pounds
IIHS safety rating: Marginal — moderate overlap front; Good elsewhere.
Limited vehicle warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles
Powertrain warranty: 5 years/60,000 miles
Corrosion warranty: 5 years/Unlimited
Vehicle assembly: Onnaing, France

Toyota Yaris photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine.

Honda Fit EV Lease Reduced to $199 Month

March 24, 2015 by admin Leave a Comment

The EV market is overloaded with models as demand is, at best, tepid. Shoppers looking for a deal may not have to look far as manufacturer incentives roll out.

Automotive manufacturers sometimes must resort to taking extraordinary measures to move slow selling models. Price cuts, larger rebates and zero percent financing are among the incentives automakers employ to move less desired models.

Among the slow sellers are those vehicles that fall under the broad electric vehicle (EV) umbrella: hybrid electric vehicles, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles and pure electric vehicles, among others. Car companies build some vehicles, particularly hybrids, to meet niche consumer demand.

Honda Fit EV In the case of many pure electric vehicles, a token product is built to meet stringent California Air Resources Board requirements. Specifically, those models are manufactured in small numbers, but even with limited production, demand is quite low as high prices and limited range annul interest.

Honda Fit EV

The Honda Fit EV is one such model that a manufacturer has difficulty selling even in small numbers. Indeed, for the first two months of 2015, Honda has sold just 63 copies of its only all-electric vehicle, a model introduced last year. Nevertheless, Honda has seen much higher interest in its hybrid offerings — its hybrid-only CR-Z and hybrid variants of its Accord and Civic models are selling in far greater numbers.

To stoke sales of the Fit EV, Honda has introduced new lease options that lower the monthly cost of “ownership” to just $199 per month. Moreover, that lowered amount will be applied to current Fit EV leases as well as to shoppers of used models. In other words, holders of two-year Fit EV leases now paying $259 per month for this vehicle will have the option to extend their lease terms and pay just $199 per month. The lower rate also applies to anyone shopping for a used Fit EV.

Besides the lowered lease rate, Honda will also maintain several perks with its sole pure EV entry to include: unlimited mileage, routine maintenance and collision insurance coverage. Although Honda is not giving the Fit EV away, it is doing everything that it can to lower the cost of vehicle ownership (or management) for shoppers.

Range and Recharging

Honda Fit EV Like the standard Fit, a subcompact model that slots below the Civic in Honda hierarchy, the Fit EV seats five people. It has an 82-mile electric range and when connected to a 240-volt outlet, the Fit EV battery can be recharged in under three hours. In the odd world of EPA fuel economy measuring, the Fit EV is rated at 118 MPGe for combined city and highway driving. Furthermore, the EPA says that the Fit EV consumes $500 worth of “fuel” per year, in this case electricity. Likely, vehicle owners have far lower energy costs as they take advantage of free public charging stations at work and elsewhere.

Honda is not the only manufacturer to resort to extraordinary measures in a bid to move slow moving EV models. In 2014, the Ford C-Max Energi, Ford Focus Electric and the Nissan Lease S were being offered for $199 per month lease deals. And in a bid to lead the market, at least in pricing, Mitsubishi lowered the price of its i-MiEV to just $189 per month. Those deals surfaced in October 2014 and were ended in early November.

Savvy Shoppers Find Great Deals

Granted, the broad EV segment still has limited appeal and prospective customers are not likely to beat down dealer doors in a bid to secure special deals. Seeing that demand is even lower as gas prices have fallen, additional offers from other manufacturers also seem likely. Thus, savvy shoppers can buy or lease an EV from a position of strength and should inform themselves of the options available to them.

Fit EV photos courtesy of Honda Motors.

Strike a Chord With the 2014 Nissan Versa Note

August 15, 2013 by admin 3 Comments

Small cars offering very good value, ample interior room and excellent gas mileage may very well drive the auto industry in the coming years. Not so much in profits, but in helping car manufacturers maintain and expand market share. The thinking here is that if you like a certain entry-level model, then you may also be drawn to larger and more expensive models for that brand down the line. Automakers want to keep your business they know that you can and will depart for a competitor if you are dissatisfied.

Nissans strategy in this area had it relying exclusively on the Sentra for nearly a quarter of a century, a compact model that has been a good seller for the brand. Beginning in 2007, the subcompact Versa was introduced and slotted beneath the Sentra, a model sold in sedan and hatchback body styles. For 2014, the hatchback is all new and it has a special name too Versa Note to distinguish it from the sedan. It is a fresh body style and it is also the latest vehicle tested for Auto Trends.

2014 Nissan Versa Note

So, why the Nissan Versa Note? Specifically, why create a sub-model for a vehicle that was updated just two years ago? Thats easy: to remain competitive.

Indeed, Nissan recently shared 13 ways that the Versa Note stands out in its segment including its very good fuel mileage (40 mpg highway), special styling (370z-inspired tail lamps) and certain engineering and technology features not usually found in this segment (active grille shutters and around-view monitor).

Nissan could just as easily have left well enough alone, but the Versa is a top seller. The older hatchback design is now gone, replaced by a new look that is simply better.

Nissan Versa Note

Trim Levels and Packages

The 2014 Nissan Versa Note is sold in S, S Plus and SV trim levels with technology packages available. As tested, a Versa Note SV with a convenience package was the vehicle I had for the past week.

All Nissan Versas, sedans and hatchbacks alike, are powered by a 1.6-liter four cylinder engine, rated at 109 horsepower. A five-speed manual transmission is standard; as equipped the weekly driver had a continuously variable transmission. Choose a CVT and you get an infinite number of forward gears, an arrangement that is supposed to produce smooth shifting and better fuel economy. Nissan backs its CVT with a 10-year/120,000 mile warranty, whichever comes first, double its usual powertrain warranty.

Sporty and Thrifty

The Versa Note hatchback benefits from a clean sheet design, one that is dominated by sporty fascia accented by flared headlamps. A steeply sloped windshield, sculpted doors and a tail lamp design ripped from the 370Z coupe are among its distinguishing features.

Inside, the cabin makes excellent use of interior room with its small footprint, most evident in the rear seat where passengers enjoy generous amounts of leg room and good head room. You can fit three people back there with ease or fold down the center armrest and stash your drinks instead.

You get a four- or six-way manually adjusted drivers seat, with two extra adjustments offered to SV buyers. A four-way manually adjusted front passenger seat is standard across the model line. Nissan dresses the seating surfaces in cloth, using a finer quality cloth for higher end models. The front bucket seats offer fair support, with taller drivers finding the seat comfortable for local trips. For longer trips the lack of lumbar support and a short seat cushion can be wearing.

Nissan makes use of plastic throughout the cabin, but it isn’t the dollar store cheap look that you still find in some cars in this class. The center stack is dominated by a small audio screen that doubles as a rear view monitor. No navigation system here unless you order the tech package, adding $2,000 to the price. Young and cash-strapped buyers (is there a difference?) might do just as well using their smartphones navigation app and saving their money.

Order the Nissan Versa Note with the convenience package and you get the display audio system with a 4.3-inch screen. That package includes SiriusXM satellite radio, a USB input with iPod control, the rear view monitor and the rear center seat armrest. As tested, this Note retails for $17,320.

Stand out features for the Nissan Versa Note include its oversized glove box with an in-dash box too. Even much larger vehicles don’t offer the amount of front storage space that the Note offers, giving you places to stash your purse, to hide a smartphone and to squirrel away other items out of plain sight. Neither box, however, locks keep this in mind. In door bottle holders and storage pockets as well as a nifty hidden storage area near the liftgate demonstrates that Nissan carefully considered what you want in a car.

Will the Nissan Versa Note Get Your Vote?

View manufacturer details and pricing

On the Road

Keyless entry gets you into the Nissan Versa Note with a standard ignition switch included. Choose the SL package and push button start, heated front seats, fog lights and alloy wheels are added.

Get behind the wheel of this front-wheel drive subcompact hatchback and the steering wheel tilts, but it does not telescope. That means you will hold your arms straight out as you drive, what soon becomes wearisome on longer trips. Sure, one finger driving on the open road with cruise control activated can help, but how safe is that? Omitting a telescoping steering column means customers will look at models that are equipped with them including the Chevrolet Sonic and Ford Fiesta.

Ive been a fan of Nissans CVTs for some time, recognizing that this manufacturer does a better job than most with its engineering and reliability. Off the line, the powertrain moves the Note with ease, and keeps this car moving forward without much laboring. However, that was my impression only when driving alone as a car full of people slows this vehicle down considerably. The little Nissan weighs just 2,400 pounds and adding 600 pounds of payload (people and their things) can impact performance noticeably.

The Versa Note’s engine is a noisy one too, not unexpected given that Nissan went light on the sound deadening materials to achieve its well-earned 40 mpg highway rating. Floor it and the Note screams, but not like the opera singer that belts one out at the appointed time. It is much less refined too, but we are talking about a budget hatchback and not the soaring voice of a Mezzo-Soprano. Electrically-assisted steering, standard across the model range, responds as expected.

Purchase Point

Up until now, I have avoided recommending various models, but will reverse course effective immediately. I like the Nissan Versa Note and a younger me would definitely consider this model despite two problems: driver seat comfort and the limited adjustable steering column. I always expect that a low-budget car will be noisy and much less refined than the midsize sedans I usually prefer, something an audio system easily counters.

The consumer I believe that will be most interested in this model will be the first-time car buyer, perhaps the recent college graduate with her first job lined up. It also can make for a good second car, a commuter vehicle that gets very good gas mileage. Long trips with several people in tow will slow this vehicle down and the limited storage area may be a problem when more than two people are present. Otherwise, fold down the rear seat and your storage room should be sufficient.

2014 Nissan Versa Note SV

Sticker price from $15,990 (est.)
Seats 5 occupants
1.6-liter 16-valve I-4 engine
109 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm
107 foot-pounds of torque @ 4,400 rpm
3.07 inches bore by 3.27 inches stroke
Engine compression ratio: 9.8-to-1
Continuously variable transmission
Wheelbase: 102.4 inches
Length: 163.7 inches
Width: 66.7 inches
Height: 60.5 inches
Passenger Volume: 94.1 cubic feet
Storage Volume: 21.4 cubic feet
Towing Capacity: N/A
EPA: 31 mpg city, 40 mpg hwy.
Fuel Tank: 10.8 gallons
Curb Weight: From 2,412 pounds
Vehicle Assembly: Aguascalientes, Mexico