2012 is proving to be a big year for subcompact models. With more people looking for smaller, fuel-efficient vehicles, there have been a number of model redesigns and new models released. Here’s a quick look at what you can expect from the new class of 2012 subcompact cars.
Most Popular New Models
One of the most talked about new models is the 2012 Chevrolet Sonic. It will not only replace the Aveo, but it is considered to be the first refined and sporty subcompact car released by General Motors in a long time.
photo credit: Stradablog
Another popular model this year is the 2012 Nissan Versa sedan and hatchback. There are a number of great features considering its low introductory price, including a Bluetooth hands-free phone system and 5-inch touch-screen display, which offers both XM satellite radio and XM NavTraffic. The number of available features in the subcompact class continues to increase.
Top Models of 2012 Subcompact Cars That Feature Major Revisions
The Kia Rio has undergone a major redesign for 2012. It features a much more sleek and stylish look and is still considered to be one of the best options for fuel-efficient travel. It will also be the first North American B-segment vehicle to feature Idle, Stop, and Go technology which will place the engine on standby whenever the vehicle is not in motion.
The Rio’s sibling the Hyundai Accent is also totally made over for 2012. The Toyota Yaris also received a significant makeover and is one of the few B-segment vehicles to feature both a three door and five door option depending on the trim.
Best Cargo Room Model
While cargo room is normally not a deciding factor when looking at subcompact cars, the Honda Fit offers a surprisingly large amount of cargo room. The seeds can be folded down to provide you with nearly 60 feet of cargo space. This is larger than several compact SUV models.
Additionally, the Fit’s “Magic Seat” design provides with a variety of configuration options to ensure that you can accommodate multiple cargo sizes and shapes. There’s also a built-in pocket underneath the seat bench to provide you with an easy way to store smaller items.
2012 Subcompact Cars With the Best Fuel Economy
The subcompact car segment is known for its fuel efficiency and 2012 is no different. While your needs may dictate that you look solely at city or highway mileage, there are some models that stand out. The new Scion iQ, a small four-passenger model, can boast 36-mpg city. However, it gets only 1-mpg better on the highway, making it a good fit as an urban vehicle.
Nearly half of small cars of 2012 can get fuel economy of 40-mpg highway. Among those in this group include the Chevy Sonic, Ford Fiesta, Hyundai Accent, and Kia Rio. These models make use of lightweight materials and new engine technologies to achieve this efficiency.
Budget Friendly Models
In general, subcompact cars are all considered to be fairly budget friendly. When combining both the retail price and fuel efficiency, the Hyundai Accent is at the top of the small cars of 2012 list, followed closely by the Ford Fiesta. The Accent has a base price of the low $12,500 and the Fiesta comes in just above $13,000, making them among the cheapest 2012 cars.
Sporty Models
With their low center of gravity, agile handling, and light-weight, small cars can be a lot of fun to drive. An increasing number of models are offering turbochargers in the subcompact class. In addition to the ubiquitous Mini Cooper S, the Fiat 500 Abarth makes its debut in 2012.
The Abarth features a 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that outputs 160 horsepower. Legendary Formula 1 driver Michael Schumacher drives a 500 Abarth as his daily driver.
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