In the market for a compact hatchback

[dja4260]

2 dealers gave me the run around yesterday. I cannot believe how they will just lie to you to get you in.

Ford website had 2 focus's for 13,990. I called and verified both stock numbers were in stock. I get there 15 minutes after call and both are "sold" but here a focus for 15,500. Typical nonsense

Manager argued that the model listed was a six speed and that an auto trans cost more. I reminded him the the auto was a 6 speed and that the manual was in fact a 5 speed. He then offered me the upgraded model with disc brakes up front! LOL

I'm already frustrated with the lack of knowledge and crud the dealers spew at you.

 

[sciphi]

Finding a dealer that is more honest than the rest can be a challenge.

What about putting a deposit down on one of those "loss-leader" cars over the phone after verifying it's on the lot (assuming it's a price you want to pay)? Then, if it "sells", you have a legal leg to stand on. And, the dealer knows you're a serious buyer, since there's already money in their pocket for their car.

 

[BigBuck]

What about the Elantra GT? The 2012 Elantra was the car of the year. I would assume this hatch would be just as good if not better.

 

[97tbird]

Impreza 5 door?
(...or is it not 'compact' enough?)

 

[hardcore302]

fiat abarth.

 

[Quattro Pete]

Originally Posted By: hardcore302
fiat abarth.

Where are the 5 doors?

 

[sciphi]

My brother signed the papers for a 2012 Mazda3 hatch yesterday. It gets delivered next week. Not sure on model, but it does have the Skyactiv 2.0 liter engine and a 6-speed manual transmission.

 

[SLCraig]

Fit.
It's huge inside, and reliable.

 

[dja4260]

Going to a few dealers this morning. Going to drive the fit, yaris, and possibly the versa.

 

[sciphi]

With the Fit, make sure to drive the MT version. Our AT, while a very nice car to drive, suffers from the usual curse of the AT on a small car.

 

[MBS500]

My friend's wife just got brand new Yaris hatch. Hands down it is 2 times better than previous models. Dashboard is in right place also. I've driven 2007 Yaris sedan for several long trips (max 700 miles one trip), and this one(2012) for around 150 miles in city/hwy teaching her how to drive. Interior doesn't look so cheap anymore I think it doesn't feel so bumpy as 2007 and brakes are acting normal. 2007 doesn't brake, and than grabs it so hard that you are about to hit windshield with your forehead

I sat in base model with stick, manual windows, seats kinda flat(butt will hurt in long trips).Nice car for work commuter, also it has chain, so no $500-1000 timing belt change expenses. Also it is 100% made in Japan if it matters (quality)

 

[MBS500]

I also testdrove Fit several years ago- didn't like it.
The absolute cheapest way--if you order 1.6 Versa sedan with stick. Has fine legroom, could be under $12 basic and also has a chain. I know it's not a 5 door, just saying.
Otherwise, Yaris or Veloster/Veloster Turbo. Veloster looks awesome and beats competitors in price/power ratio. Plus it looks cool. MPG drop not that big compared to N/A Veloster, but fun factor is much grater with turbo and 6speed.
Minus direct injection possible issues(dilution and carbon buildup in da future)

 

[2008wrx]

FIT is way too expensive.

 

[Smokescreen]

Not sure about the 2012 Fit, but previous years my co-worker has one and its a common complain of his that it has issues with scooping up snow and packing the backside of the engine compartment.

 

[dja4260]

I drove the Fit and Yaris. I liked the Yaris interior more. The dealer is going to call me when they have a manual one in as both were automatics. The fit is more versatile with the crazy folding seats. I'll see who offers me what for my trade in and who can offer better financing.

 

[dja4260]

I just drove the Mazda 2. It felt small and cramped compared to the Fit and Yaris. I like the Yaris the most.

 

[A_A_G]

2nd gen Scion xB

I've had mine for 5 years and its a great vehicle. I've only done fluids, filters and tires, everything else is still original.
-Reliable 2az-fe
-Fits 5 people very comfortable, people can't believe how roomy it is when they ride in it.

Its not getting 40 mpg, but I can get 30-32 hwy doing the speed limit.

 

[SLCraig]

Originally Posted By: dja4260
I drove the Fit and Yaris. I liked the Yaris interior more. The dealer is going to call me when they have a manual one in as both were automatics. The fit is more versatile with the crazy folding seats. I'll see who offers me what for my trade in and who can offer better financing.


The 2012 Yaris is great. So much better infact I actually think its worth looking at when compared to a Fit. But you said it.. If space is your main concern, the Fit wins. Easily.

Yaris is most improved though, SO much better than the previous model.

 

[addyguy]

Can't go wrong with a Yaris, you really can't...hope it works out!

 

[dja4260]

Well I wanted the Yaris in manual. Dealer called and my only option is the 4 speed auto. I can pay 1.5k more for the Yaris sport model that is stick. Brings the sticker price to almost 18k.....

I want the Yaris, not the automatic. I'm going to continue looking around and see what pops up.