Subcompact Comparo: Aveo, Fit, Yaris, SX4

The specter of $4.00 per gallon gasoline is enough to make you consider cheaper modes of transportation. Several automakers have recognized this trend in recent years and responded with low-cost economy car offerings.


We recently tested four of those cars. The side-by-side comparison revealed the strengths and weaknesses of each. The following is commentary on how they compare and the overall value of each. Our picks are listed in order of preference.

2007 Honda Fit (Price as tested: $15,720)

The Fit is driven by a 109-horsepower four-cylinder engine that delivers 33 mpg city and 38 highway when mated to a five-speed manual transmission or 31/38 when paired with a five-speed automatic. We drove the Sport model, which costs $1320 more than the base model and adds cruise control, keyless entry, an iPod connection, and 15-inch alloy wheels. All Fits have ABS, front side airbags and side curtain airbags.


Though its handling isn't appreciably sharp, the Fit has a fun-to-drive factor that is missing in the competitors. It may be the steering, which is by far the quickest and most direct. The ride is also the best of this bunch, as the Fit irons out most bumps well. The Fit's greatest attribute, though, is its use of space. There is plenty of head and legroom, front and rear, which is an accomplishment for a car this size. The rear seats fold flat to create a cavernous 41.9 cubic feet of cargo room, more than all but the SX4. As an added bonus, the Fit will almost certainly bring more money when it's time to sell, thanks to Honda's sterling resale record.

2007 Suzuki SX4 (Price as tested: $14,999)

The SX4 is offered only as a four-door hatchback, but a sedan will come in 2008. All-wheel drive is standard. The engine is a 143-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder, the largest and most powerful among this group. EPA ratings are the lowest of the bunch at 24/29 with the five-speed manual transmission, and 24/30 with the $1000 four-speed automatic. The SX4 has standard ABS with four-wheel disc brakes, front side airbags and curtain side airbags. We tested a five-speed base model.