Suggestion For Automakers

[jambo101]

Originally Posted by bronsin

Why isnt anyone in the industry building an economy dedicated car? People will buy it not because of the social status that comes with a car but solely for the fuel economy. (and lets throw in Toyota durability to sweeten the deal)

Wouldnt the Yaris fit that description?
Or the Toyota Scion I-Q?

[bronsin]

Originally Posted by jambo101

Wouldnt the Yaris fit that description?
Or the Toyota Scion I-Q?

Well, sort of.

The Scion comes with all sorts of upgraded features that make it start at $16,000. To actually BUY one you are writing a check for $20,000. Or something near that. They even make Scions that have a sticker of $20,000 and guess which ones the dealers usually have in stock?

Besides the Scion has a 1.3 liter engine when it could have the 1 liter.

It probably the best bet. Its better than a Smart. But am I paying ~$20,000 for an iQ? MAybe if Im forced to!

The Yaris is a step in the wrong direction from the ECHO. Its heavier. It doesnt get as good fuel economy. It has a 1.5 liter engine, not a 1 liter or even a 1.3.

The Yaris is probably the best bet on the market however, even compared to the iQ. For what the iQ costs youd probably be better off with the carrying capacity of the Yaris.

The problem is manufacturers dont make money on small cars. With the Smart and iQ, they are trying to make us pay the same ammount of money we would for a larger car.