One of the least expensive cars in the sub-compacts category is the Suzuki SX4. Replacing the Aerio sedan, this compact car is only available in front wheel drive. All 2009 SX4 models are equipped with a 2.0-liter, 16-valve, 4-cylinder, 143-horsepower engine with manual or automatic transmissions.

The Suzuki has several qualities that put it at the top of the sub-compact class. It’s the longest (177.6 inches), the second heaviest (2,745 pounds) and has the most rear leg room (35.9 inches) of the 14 vehicles listed in the category in automotive consumer publications.

So if you are in the market for an economical car, chances are that you would best consider the Suzuki SX4. It is priced in the market at $17, 639.00.

(Source) The Weekly Driver

Tags: automatic transmissions, compact car, economical car, front wheel drive, least expensive cars, Suzuki, suzuki sx4

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Despite being produced on a tight budget, the 2008 Ford Falcon has earned the nod as New Zealand’s Car of the Year for its excellent performance handling, value for money and ease of operation.

The FG-series Falcon was one of nine finalists for this year’s New Zealand Car of the Year award, which is open to new models launched in New Zealand during the 12 months prior to 1 November 2008. The others were the Fiat 500, Honda Accord Euro, Hyundai i30, Jaguar XF, Mazda 6, Nissan X-Trail, Subaru Forester and Volkswagen Tiguan.

Not many people are aware of the existence of the Ford Falcon, an economical car with home and quality finish that can appeal to any car critic today. Garnering the award is an achievement in itself and it certainly helps boost the Ford brand as well.

(Source) NZV8

Tags: 2008 ford falcon, car of the year, economical car, Fiat, fiat 500, honda accord, honda accord euro, Hyundai, hyundai i30, jaguar, Jaguar XF, mazda 6, nissan x trail, subaru forester

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The Honda City has been known to be the smallest and economical car suitable for yuppies these days and its conservative approach towards providing efficient modes of private transportation has been evident in recent years. With its new design, the 2008 Honda City has bagged a couple of awards that included:

Business Standard Motoring Car of the Year
Zigwheels Car of the Year
Zigwheels Sedan of the Year

The Honda City actually bested three other cars in its category and with its refined aero dynamics, it seems to gain attention wherever it may find itself in.

The new Honda City is fully loaded with all active and passive safety features including Dual SRS airbags, ABS with EBD and Brake Assist and G-CON (G-Force Control Technology) body with a crush-proof survival zone. The new 1.5 L i-VTEC engine delivers 118PS, while being extremely fuel efficient. It is the first car in its segment to be equipped with a 5-speed automatic transmission with paddle shift.

Source

Tags: aero dynamics, automatic transmission, car of the year, economical car, Honda, honda city, vtec engine

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