Small cars that have big reputations
COMPACTS: Automakers presenting new vehicles that are roomier, economical and fun to drive
Contrary to popular opinion, bigger is not always better. And, keeping up the cliches, good things do come in small packages.
Just take a look at these five smallish cars at the auto show.
First, proving that a compact car isn’t a boring car, stop by Ford’s display and check out the all-new Focus RS. Ford has imbued the RS model with performance technologies that should provide for an exhilarating driving experience — including raceinspired Ford Performance all-wheel drive and an industry-first drift mode. Powered by Ford’s 2.3-litre EcoBoost engine that produces 350 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque, this hot hatch has a muscular stance with large brake cooling ducts and vertically mounted fog lamps.
Another hatchback here at the Vancouver show is the all-new Chevrolet Cruze Hatch. This car is based on the sedan version of the Cruze, but should offer a bit more utility with a sporty attitude. The Cruze Hatch comes in LT and Premier trims, plus there’s the RS package that adds unique front and rear fascias, rocker panels, rear spoiler, fog lamps and, when applied to the Premier model, 18-inch alloy wheels. The Cruze Hatch is powered by a 1.4-L inline four-cylinder engine that features turbocharging and stop/ start technologies and electric power steering. That hatch opens up to offer 524 litres of storage space behind the rear seat, and with the seats folded forward, it expands to 1,336 litres of usable cargo space.
Honda has its all-new 2017 Civic Coupe on display. As part of the Ci vic’ s 10th generation lineup, the coupe’s wheelbase has been stretched and it’s wider. The roof is lower, and the car is shorter overall. Overall interior room has grown with increased space for back seat passengers. Two engines are offered, including the standard 2.0- L four-cylinder in lower trims while the mid to higher level trims feature a 1.5-L turbocharged power plant.
Scion, under the Toyota umbrella, is a relatively new car company that was introduced in the United States in 2002, and then in Canada in 2010. The brand currently markets the xB and tC models, the rear-wheel drive FR-S, and now the compact iM. For the iM, Toyota has essentially taken its Auris hatchback — a vehicle available in other global markets — and added Scion badges, a body kit and 17-inch alloy wheels. Powering the iM is a 1.8-L inline-four cylinder engine, and it can be paired with either a six-speed manual gearbox, or, for an extra $825, a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
Still under the Toyota umbrella is the 2016 Lexus CT 200h Special Edition. This luxury hatchback offers a low profile and wide, sporty stance — all set off by the unmistakable Lexus spindle grille.
Under the hood is the Lexus hybriddrive system, built around a 1.8-L Atkinson Cycle inline four-cylinder engine and a high-torque electric motor and battery setup — the car can be driven in one of four selectable modes, Normal, Sport, Eco and EV. The CT 200h Special Edition is the top of the line for the model, and it adds to the F Sport series of accessories Atomic Silver paint on the outside and two-tone black and scarlet upholstery with contrast stitching on the inside.