My best small car I ever had was a 1999 VW New Bettle TDI (deisel). This car had every option VW offered. I bought used with 60 K miles, at very good price. Spent 1K on timing belt and de-sludging of deisel engine. Had car for 4 years. I have to say it was a great car. no problems mechanically putting on another 100k miles.I drive the speed limits and was getting 46mph in the city and 59mph to 61 mph on the road on long trips consistently. For all around driving, comfort and handling it wast the best. One big flaw in the car was it sat very low to the ground, hit a piece of ice in the road. I believe it was a piece of stone or cement in it. Knocked off the oil drain plug and the loss of oil blew the turbo charger & engine. Insurance company totaled. I was tired of the Beetles looks, so I decided to replace with one of the new smallcars. Mileage could not come close on any of the crop of them, all the hatchbacks had plenty of cargo room for my needs but only the Fit & Versas interior were decent in my opinion. The ride, interior and seating went to the Versa. I bought the Versa Mar 2009. 3k less than Fit comparably equipped. I am well satisfied with the Versa, all around. But will go back to another Deisel if and when they become more popular in other vehicles US. Also miss the unmistakable engine sound of the deisel in a good way.
The honda fit is a great car that wont let you down
to me though it is rather ugly the mini diesl is a very economical but still looks great get the cooper D though as the basic is rather slow
the ford fiesta that is avalible in europe is coming over to the USA as is the Focus they are great cars and the best selling in the UK
have a test drive of the honda fit and the mini, it might be worth waiting for the Fords though
hope i was helpful
The new fiesta is coming over to the USA next year!!
I highly recommend it the Brits love it and it blows all other cars in the class away for its price range. For a more premium version the new VW polo may be hitting the USA its not as exciting as the Fiesta but is built to the highest standards. If your looking for fun the Alfa Romeo Mito is rumoured to be going to the states as well and in my opinion is one of the most attractive cars on the road.