Who is Buying Small Cars? Lots of People

Just a few years ago the subcompact car in America was a tiny, cheap econobox with a noisy engine and no frills that few people wanted to buy.

But as gasoline prices settle in around $3 per gallon, the market for tiny cars is rapidly growing and changing as their styling, interiors and features continue to improve

"I don't think there's a segment that's come to life quite so quickly and robustly," said Jim Sanfilippo, senior industry analyst for Bloomfield Hills-based Automotive Marketing Consultants Inc.

Analysts say eight tiny cars are on the market from seven manufacturers, but that number is likely to grow as demand increases.


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nextGen - 8/18/2006 10:48:49 AM

+1 Boost

I will consider one in the future and depending on how gas prices shape out at that time. With what I pay at the pump to refill the tank, the cumulative amount on a yearly basis can buy me like several sets of nice tires in just one year which is something I'll need to replace soon. I've got about a 16-gal gas tank and it costs on average 50 bucks per week to get me to work and back. What a drain but thank goodness I don't drive a truck or SUV which I once owned. Btw public transportation isn't an option in my situation.

vcowman - 8/18/2006 11:06:44 AM

+1 Boost

I would love to see some fun to drive, hot hatches of yesteryear. None of this soulless nonsense.

mkk21 - 8/18/2006 12:04:56 PM

+1 Boost

Not that I'm interested in one, but I kinda do like the curvy front to this car. I doubt any of you care but does anyone know if they sell the four door liftback in the U.S. I looked on the website and they only have the two door version of the liftback. And I don't know if you guys ever watched Psych on USA, because the guy on the show drives the four door liftback. I kinda wouldn't mind checking out the liftback but I'd prefer the four door. It seems like it'd be a fun car to just go for a drive in.

Rupert - 8/18/2006 12:35:34 PM

+1 Boost

if the americans like small cars, maybe the french will start exporting again.
their small cars are great, bt probably too expensive for the american market.

nextGen - 8/18/2006 2:18:08 PM

+1 Boost

Bring the French designed/built cars over although I don't know anything about their prices. I'm not too picky with cars but an area I do appreciate is design and the French have some nicely sculpted ones.

asiddiqi - 8/25/2006 11:47:21 AM

+1 Boost

I'm guessing that more people are going to add a 2 or 3rd...econo car for commutes and around the town. Kind of a non issue for me now that I work out of the house. Probably save about $50 a week between gas and lunch. But if I did...I'd keep the sports car and drive a Honda fit to work.