|
Economy Cars: Lanos, Mirage, Metro, Accent, Swift, Echo
By Bob Storck
During the seventies these were the most popular cars with their modest
cost and great fuel economy. They have suffered with recent prosperity,
but still remain a popular choice for first cars and commuter duty. In
many ways, the major justification for these vehicles is to offset the
thirsty large engines for the government mandated fuel economy average.
When British, German, French and Italian cars came into the US market
during the 1950's, they were regarded as flimsy vehicles for those who
couldn't afford "real cars." Ten years later the Japanese followed the
format. Now the Koreans are on the same course with Kia, Hyundai and
Daewoo. Some domestic cars started at this level, but grew larger, more
powerful and plusher to follow their buyer's incomes and tastes. Now the
byword is quality. While prices have crept upward, that is more due to
increased demand for convenience features.
Typically the cars have four or fewer cylinders, with most of the lower
priced ones delivered with manual transmissions. The top highway mpgs
have dropped from the high 50s to the 40s as economy has faded from the
public need.
These thrifty cars still remain a popular choice for first cars and
commuter duty, but no longer are they merely small and spartan. The
Toyota Echo shows that making a car taller improves the interior room
without requiring a larger parking space. With new competition from
Daewoo's Lanos and a redesigned Hyundai Accent, there's much to choose
from.
Economy Cars
|
