Top Small Cars for 2008

Small compact cars are becoming more and more popular.  Not only are they less expensive than larger models, they generally have better fuel economy ratings.  Those wanting to buy small cars have a large selection to choose from which can sometimes make the choice overwhelming.  However, taking into consideration safety ratings, customer reviews, dependability ratings, and crash test ratings can help narrow down your compact car choices to those that are designed to fit your needs and desires. 

2008 Chevy Cobalt™

The Chevy Cobalt™ began production in 2004 to replace the popular compact Chevy Cavalier™.  Designed with a similar body style, the Cobalt™ offers drivers many different variations.  The Chevy Cobalt™ is available in six models including the two door LS, LT, and Sport Coupe and the four door LT, LS, and Sport Sedan.  Priced from $14,000 and available in manual or automatic transmission, the Chevy Cobalt™ has become popular with high school and college students.  It makes a great and affordable first vehicle for someone who doesn’t have a lot of disposable income.  The Cobalt™ has excellent fuel efficiency that averages 22 mpg in the city and 32mpg on the highway.

2008 KIA Spectra™

With the 10-year/100,000 mile warranty to back it up, the KIA Spectra™ is becoming one of the more popular small cars on the market.  A fuel economy of 23mpg city and 32mpg highway, coupled with a low retail cost, is another reason those in the market for a small car are choosing the KIA Spectra™.  Available in three four-door options, this compact vehicle provides seating for up to 5.  The KIA Spectra ™ can be purchased in one of four basic colors.  If you like to buy small cars, the KIA Spectra™ is well suited for the young professional or a recent college graduate.

2008 Honda Civic Hybrid™

Most people living in the United States have to commute to their jobs.  Some people commute small distances, while others spend several hours each week traveling to and from work.  For these people, the top concern when buying small cars is finding one with great gas mileage.  The 2008 Honda Civic Hybrid™ combines the reliability of a brand that has been around for years with the technology that allows drivers to get upwards of 40mpg city and 45mpg on the highway.  Those who do a lot of driving will appreciate the comfortable interior and the optional satellite navigation system in the 2008 Honda Civic Hybrid™.

2008 Subaru Impreza™

If you are worried about safety and owning a small car, then the 2008 Subaru Impreza™ is the small car for you.  Of all the compact or small cars on the market, the Impreza™ has the highest frontal offset rating and side impact set results.  The Subaru Impreza™ includes side airbags, front and read head curtain airbags, and front seat-mounted torso airbags for additional protection.  Additionally, the Impreza™ has optional electronic stability control to help drivers stay on the road.  With optional GPS navigation and Sirius satellite radio, this small car for 2008 provides the comfort and safety often associated with larger model vehicles.  The impressive fuel economy and variety of colors make this top small car for 2008 an excellent choice for the small family.

Where To Find Additional Information

Before making a final decision on a small car model and make to purchase, it’s always best to be equipped with as much information as possible.  While these four compact cars listed offer great choices, there are many comparable models on the market.  Additional information on the best small cars for 2008 can be found through a variety of websites including:

www.fueleconomy.gov – Operated by the Environmental Protection Agency, this website provides consumers with the fuel economy rating for all vehicles.  Listed by model, make, and class size, it’s easy to find the best small car for 2008 and see how it compares.

www.jdpower.com – JD Power and Associates offer the most comprehensive information in regards to safety and dependability of small cars. 

www.iiih.org – The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety is the body that conducts research in regards to safety for all vehicles.  Those who view this site can find out how crash test dummies fared during impacts.

Manufacturer’s website – Taking a tour of the individual manufacturer’s website will give consumers an overall view before they buy small cars.  It’s a great way to see all the available features and colors for a particular model.

Whether you are a high school student, college graduate, young professional, or road warrior, a small car can provide comfort at a price affordable to most.  With the high price of fuel, the small car is becoming increasingly popular, and manufacturers are beginning to add features that were normally seen in luxury model sedans.  These features, such as GPS navigation, satellite radio, and side curtain air bags, make the small car a great investment.  

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