Production of the Toyota Yaris has begun in the Japanese automaker’s French factory, which will export the subcompact to the North American market.

Toyota Motor Manufacturing France (TMMF) held an official ceremony to kick off the Yaris compact’s production and marks the first-ever, Europe-built Toyota model that will be exported to North America. Around 25,000 units will be exported each year for the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico.

SEE ALSO: 2013 Toyota Yaris vs 2013 Honda Fit

The French-made Toyota Yaris will be sold in more than 40 countries globally including South Africa and Egypt. The Yaris is the first vehicle ever produced in France to be certified with the new “French Origin Guaranteed” label.

The third-generation Yaris launched in Europe in the summer of 2011 with the Yaris Hybrid following in June 2012. The Yaris range saw sales grow 27 percent in 2012 compared to 2011. Last year, the Yaris accounted for nearly 22 percent of Toyota’s total European sales.

“Building on more than 10 years of experience in high quality car production, this Yaris is another endorsement of TMMF’s excellence in manufacturing,” said Makoto Sano, President of TMMF.

GALLERY: Toyota Yaris Production

Discuss this story at ToyotaNation.com

The Chevrolet Cruze Diesel is rated at 46 mpg on the highway, giving it the potential to get at least 700 miles to a tank.

But on a recent trip by Tessa Baughman, an energy engineer for General Motors, she was able to net 900 miles on a single tank cruising at 5 mph below the speed limit. Even in stop-and-go traffic, Baughman claims the Cruze Diesel’s tank was good for 800 miles.

SEE ALSO: Chevy Cruze Diesel Bests Jetta TDI With 46 MPG

The Volkswagen Jetta TDI on the other hand, is rated at up to 43 mpg and has a range of 795 miles based on an 18.5-gallon tank and a manual transmission. The Cruze Diesel comes with a six-speed automatic and a 2.0-liter, turbo-diesel that’s good for 148 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque.

Known to have the best highway fuel efficiency out of any non-hybrid on the road, the Cruze Diesel starts at $25,695 including an $810 destination fee.

Discuss this story at ChevroletCruze.net

The 2013 Honda Civic sedan has been awarded a five-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

The Civic sedan scored four stars on the frontal crash test, five stars on the side impact test, and four stars for rollover protection, giving it a five-star overall rating. The coupe on the other hand, while it had the same scores on each individual test, was awarded a four-star rating since crash dummies received more significant injuries in side-impact crash tests.

SEE ALSO: 2013 Honda Civic vs 2013 Nissan Sentra

The 2013 Honda Civic sedan was also named a Top Safety Pick+ from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and was the first small, compact car to meet the new standard.

Pricing for the Honda Civic sedan starts at $18,955 including a $790 destination charge.

Discuss this story at 9thGenCivic.com

The week is drawing to a close and while that can mean several things, most importantly (of course), it’s time for another installment of Ask AutoGuide, the information superhighway’s most exciting semi-regular feature. Beating the competition to market with mildly informative and generally accurate content is the name of the game. Our skilled geniuses are ready to spread their expertise like frosting on a sheet cake; just scoop it out of the tub and smear it all around.

If you’ve read any of the preceding nine installments of Ask AutoGuide you’re probably keenly aware of our on-staff Oracles; they’re the engine that drives this weekly column. You should also be aware of their violent mood swings and predilection for Velcro, be it shoes, wallets or even as a solution to keep their colostomy bags from breaking free. Hey, they can be messy but it beats getting up to use the restroom every six minutes.

In an effort to avoid overextending themselves the Oracles only work Mondays, Wednesdays and Tuesdays. They like to pre-ward themselves with extra time off. Think of their extended weekends as an anticipatory reward handed out before doing something good. Despite their part-time status our in-house experts are always able to lend a helping hand and this week Karen is in need of some advice.

She’s looking to replace her 1997 Jeep Cherokee, a vehicle that’s undoubtedly on the downward slope of a mediocre career. She wants a compact car that will hold its value; she’s also after something with a quiet interior and comfortable ride, things her Jeep couldn’t deliver even when showroom fresh.

Karen is willing to spend up to $24,000 on a new ride. She’s open to different suggestions but her only major caveat is that she doesn’t like vehicles with massive hoods. Unfortunately that rules out a Jaguar E-Type or the 1963 Lincoln Continental the Oracles were pushing for. She also said bells and whistles are important, presumably so are buzzers and claxons. She wants as many features as her budget allows.

Like cows, sheep and other multi-stomached animals AutoGuide’s Oracles have been ruminating on Karen’s vehicular dilemma and here is a condensed vision of their full report, the latter of which is longer than the Patriot Act and twice as boring to read. You’re welcome for sifting the gold nuggets out a dump-truck load of soil.

Suggestion #1: 2013 Toyota Corolla S Special Edition – $24,403

The Corolla is Toyota’s C-Segment sedan and it’s a nameplate that’s been around for generations. Believe it or not the car was introduced in the mid 1960s so it actually has some heritage. Unfortunately it’s a bit too retro for 2013, but more on that in a moment.

With every single option-box checked the car cashes out at a few hundred bucks more than the $24,000 limit. Fortunately Karen can forgo some frivolities like paint-protection film and a cup-holder ashtray to get the price down a bit. The $49 cargo tote is an absolute necessity, though. Where else are you going to find a storage bin, tub or crate to keep in the trunk? An old cardboard box that grapefruit came in would never hold any junk so don’t even try it (hint, hint).

The range-topping S Special Edition is the most gilded Corolla available. It comes with things like a navigation system that features a 6.1-inch screen, HD radio and Bluetooth, though no brush or paste; oral hygiene is between you and your dental professional.

Outside 17-inch alloy wheels, fog lights and a rear spoiler are standard, the latter of which adds a touch of excitement to an otherwise heinously boring design. If you want excitement in any way, shape or form this is not the car for you.

The Oracles might not have even considered the Corolla for Karen, but it was she who suggested it.

If you’re starting to get the feeling that Toyota’s Corolla is a little past its prime you ought to start reading palms and playing with tarot cards; clearly you’re gifted. The car is outdated, very outdated, in fact it’s a lot like driving the year 1998, which would still technically be an improvement over Karen’s Cherokee.

Nowhere is the Corolla’s deficiency more apparent than under its nondescript hood. Perched above the front subframe is an automotive relic. The car is hauled around by a powertrain so antiquated you half expect to see an Egyptian cartouche cast into the engine block.

Imhotep’s chariots were probably more advanced than the Corolla’s 1.8-liter four-cylinder. It delivers a modest 132 horsepower with just 128 lb-ft of torque. Output may be lacking but where the car really falls on its face is in the transmission department. It’s saddled with a four-speed automatic! In 2013 that’s totally inexcusable and reason enough to side step the Corolla like a cow patty.

SEE ALSO: 2014 Toyota Corolla Previewed in Furia Concept

This gearbox is the equivalent of bringing a knife to a gunfight. No, scratch that. It’s like fighting World War III armed only with pom-poms. Despite their mildly celebratory nature there’s nothing to cheer about with the Toyota Corolla.

Making things even worse, the car is not very efficient. According to the U.S. EPA Corollas with the automatic transmission (a five-speed manual is offered on lower-trim models) deliver 26 miles per gallon in city driving and 34 on the highway, netting it a combined score of 29 MPG. Again, ’98 is calling right along with the Lewinsky Scandal and new episodes of F*R*I*E*N*D*S.

Like college economics professors or used-carpet salesmen paleontologists believe the Corolla is a direct descendant of Mundaneasaurus, a semi-omnivorous dinosaur that killed its prey by boring it to death. You’ve been warned.

There’s plenty to grumble about regarding this compact Toyota but there are a few positives worth noting. The car is renowned for its bulletproof reliability, a reputation earned after decades of fighting the good fight against defects.  According to Toyota’s consumer website more than 80 percent of Corollas sold over the last 20 years are still on the road today. That’s a major plus.

Like Pandora’s box at least there’s hope; a redesigned model is on the way.

Suggestion #2: 2013 Honda Civic EX-L with Navigation – $27,378

Like Ford and Chevrolet, Toyota and Honda are bitter rivals, battling each other for sales and mindshare in an increasingly crowded market. Facing off against the antiquated Corolla in the C-Segment is Honda’s popular Civic sedan.

Right off the bat you can tell there’s a lot more going on with this car. When loaded with options the price is three grand more expensive. That’s because the Civic is much more advanced.

Like Southern and Eastern-European immigrants coming to America in the early 20^th century Honda’s top-of-the-line Civic EX-L sedan has features by the boatload. For a little more than $27,000 the car comes with modern necessities like sat-nav and voice recognition, automatic climate control, Bluetooth connectivity and a leather-wrapped tiller, not to mention heated front seats.

In the safety department the car is armed with a list of Ralph Nader-approved items including side-curtain airbags, brake assist, stability control and a high-tech ACE II body structure. That acronym is Honda-speak for Advanced Compatibility Engineering; all you really need to know is that it’s safe in a crash should you ever decide to rear-end a cement truck, plow through a weekend farmer’s market or roll the car 18 times in an attempt to recreate Smokey and the Bandit.

Additionally it’s a “Top Safety Pick +” from the Naderites at the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). That’s the highest score they give out for crashworthiness, although it’s a bit confusing how you can do better than “Top.”

Like the Corolla this high-end Civic is armed with darkness-defeating fog lights, it’s also got heated side-view mirrors and a power moonroof. A sporty-looking spoiler adds $399 to the car’s price tag and nothing to its performance; 17-inch wheels are nearly $1,200. Skipping other questionable options like door-edge trim, a car cover and splash guards will drop the Civic’s price by thousands.

Under the hood this car is powered by a 1.8-liter inline-four. Sound familiar? It matches the Corolla liter for liter. Regrettable its output is barely any better. The Civic’s single-overhead-cam i-VTEC engine delivers 140 horsepower; torque is IDENTICAL to the Toyota. It’s like they cheated off of each other and both failed the test.

SEE ALSO: 2013 Honda Civic vs. 2013 Nissan Sentra

It may not deliver a boot in trousers but the Civic’s engine at least gets to work with a slightly more modern gearbox, and we do mean slightly. The car features an all-around competent five-speed automatic transmission. It’s smooth and effective but a couple gears short in today’s world. Where the Corolla’s four-gear unit is from the Stone Age this one is at least from the Middle Ages.

The Civic’s performance is decent in most driving situations, it’s no V10-powered SRT Viper but it’s perfectly fine for normal motorists. It may be an almost-even match for the Corolla when it comes to output but the Civic trounces its Toyota counterpart in fuel efficiency. The car stickers at 28 miles per gallon ‘round town and 39 on interstate jaunts. Its combined rating is an impressive 32 MPG, 3 better than the Corolla.

Karen mentioned she’s in the market for a comfortable car that’s loaded with features. Well, the Civic offers just about every option available in a compact sedan and a few others, but that’s not all. The car is very quiet, refined and smooth going down the road – all qualities Karen demanded. But in typical Honda fashion it’s also engaging to drive. It feels more planted and appreciably sportier than the Corolla, best of all it should be every bit as reliable as the Toyota.

The Oracles’ only real complaint about the Civic centers on styling. They won’t mince words; the car is kind of weird looking. The Chevy Cruze, Dodge Dart and even the Nissan Sentra are all handsome small sedans, but this little Honda is just strange, even after its not-insignificant refresh for 2013.

Suggestion #2: 2013 Subaru Impreza 2.0i Limited – $29,946

Wowzers! Going with every available option and accessory pushes the Subaru Impreza’s price to 30 large. That may not be too much in today’s overpriced, overregulated automotive world but it’s a symbolic threshold, and crossing it puts you square in the big league.

Now, like the other two cars listed here that price can be massively reduced simply by skipping the litany of bullshit things Subaru offers. There’s an available battery warmer for instance. It costs $39.99. Buyers can opt for a cigarette lighter, which is also 40 bucks. A car cover is available for $129.99 but the bag to put it in costs extra. Subaru has the audacity to charge $14.95 for the luxury of a fabric satchel. You’d think after paying 130 bucks for a glorified fitted sheet they could at least give you a baggie to put it in. Not a chance.

Skipping other useless features like the optional 10-inch subwoofer, upgraded tweeters, bumper corner moldings and sport grill the Impreza costs a much more reasonable $24,965. That we can work with.

The Limited model comes standard with a lockable glovebox, automatic climate control, half a dozen speakers and leather upholstery. Navigation is part of a $2,200 package that includes a moonroof. These items should tick all of Karen’s luxury checkboxes.

The littlest Subaru is powered by a 2.0-liter boxer four-cylinder engine that puts out an adequate 148 horsepower. Torque weighs in at 145 lb-ft, more than either the Toyota or Honda.

Eschewing a traditional transmission the Impreza is fitted with a continuously variable unit or CVT for short. Subaru has branded it Lineartronic but the AutoGuide Oracles call it the Lame-O-matic Gearless-Special because it oozes like a bedsore. The driving experience provided by CVTs – not just this one – is not that pleasant. They’re great for efficiency but they always feel like they’re slipping.

SEE ALSO: 2012 Subaru Impreza Hatchback Review

One major advantage in Subaru’s corner is all-wheel drive – a relevant factor considering Karen commented an ideal quality would be a car that can “handle adverse weather/road conditions “. AWD is standard on every vehicle the company offers except the sporty BRZ coupe. It’s a major advantage in slippery conditions

Nearly matching the Civic in safety Subaru’s Impreza is merely a “Top Safety Pick.” It may be minus the “+” but you‘ll still be extremely well protected in a crash.

As for fuel economy, the ‘Rezza falls between the Corolla and Civic. According to the number crunchers at the EPA the car earns a combined rating of 30 MPG, stickering at 27 in the city and 36 on the highway.

COUNTING THE VOTES

So, what’s the right small car for Karen? Well, each one has its strengths (strength singular in the case of the Corolla) as well as a few weaknesses (and by few we mean many for the Toyota). Here’s the breakdown of this all-Japanese CelebrASIA festival.

Right off the bat you can tell the Corolla isn’t going to win this comparison. The car is something of an automotive relic. Toyota has left it on the market far too long without the substantial update it desperately needs to remain competitive. It sells on price and its reputation for quality, and sell it does.

The Impreza is a solid choice and a quality piece of engineering. It doesn’t standout out in any particular area, with one exception: it’s the only car here with all-wheel drive, and that’s a big advantage. If she can get past the annoying CVT it could be a good option for Karen, but perhaps not the best choice.

Honda’s Civic is a stalwart in the segment. It’s respected, it’s safe, it’s thrifty and it still knows how to have a little fun. It’s an excellent small car for Karen, as it meets all of her needs. Sure, the Civic may act like a lady but unfortunately she looks like a dude; her Adam’s apple is bigger than a ripened red delicious. Hopefully Karen’s ok with the styling. Also, she mentioned winter traction was a concern and the Impreza is a shoe in for grip, but with a good set of snow tires the Civic should be able to drive through just about anything. And that’s enough to seal the deal this week.

As always, good luck Karen in your quest for a new car and thanks again for taking the time to Ask AutoGuide.

If you need a little assistance shopping for your next vehicle feel free to do the same. Send a short message to ask@AutoGuide.com. Let us know the basics of what you’re looking for. How many seats do you need? What size of vehicle do you want? How much are you willing to spend? With some of those fundamentals out of the way we’ll get busy to come up with two or three must-see vehicles that you’ll have to put on your test-drive list.

Anticipation has been building up for the 2014 Toyota Corolla’s official unveiling ever since the Japanese automaker previewed it in the Corolla Furia concept.

The next-generation Corolla looks to be promising, and if a leaked order guide is to be believed, the overhaul will be substantial. Though the styling is expected to be a bit more tame than what’s shown on the Furia concept, the 2014 Corolla will still maintain a sleek and more modern design with a bit of influence from the Camry.

SEE ALSO: 2014 Toyota Corolla to be Unveiled Before L.A. Auto Show

As for what the order guide revealed, the new Corolla will be powered by a 1.8-liter, four-cylinder engine that includes the automaker’s Valvematic continuously variable valve timing and lift system. The current Corolla is also powered by a 1.8-liter four-cylinder, but that car only sports VVT-i, which only has variable valve timing.

The bad news is, the base model will apparently still feature a four-speed automatic, though the manual transmission option will sport six gears. On higher trim levels, buyers will be able to opt for a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

No performance figures were leaked, but it’s expected that the Corolla will improve on its current 132 hp and 128 lb-ft of torque offering, and will get better fuel economy.

Trim levels were revealed in the leak however, if it’s accurate. Four models will be available for purchase: base, LE, S, and Eco. Options in the guide include Softex leather, push-button start, and navigation.

[Source: Car and Driver]

Discuss this story at ToyotaNation.com

Scion has announced pricing for its 2014 tC and iQ models, along with its 10 Series Edition models which celebrate the brand’s 10th anniversary.

Updated for the 2014 model year, the new tC debuted earlier this year at the New York Auto Show with more aggressive styling, an upgraded interior, and an enhanced driving experience. The 2014 Scion tC will start at $19,210 for the manual and $20,210 for the automatic.

As for the 2014 Scion iQ, the Japanese automaker added the new Scion Display Audio while everything else carries over from the 2013 model year. Pricing for the 2014 Scion iQ starts at $15,665.

SEE ALSO: 2014 Scion FR-S Series 10 Video, First Look

Those interested in the Limited 10 Series Editions will be glad to know that they don’t demand a huge premium over the standard models. The tC will start at $21,440 and $22,440 for manual and automatic, respectively. The iQ will be $17,850 while the Scion xD manual will start from $18,155. Those looking for an automatic Limited 10 Series xD will have to pay at least $18,955.

Fans of the xB Limited 10 Series will have their pricing starting at $19,210 for the manual and $20,160 for the automatic.

The sporty FR-S starts at $27,425 for the manual Limited 10 Series while the automatic is priced from $28,675.

All listed prices exclude a $755 delivery, processing, and handling fee.

Discuss this story at ScionForum.com

Mazda has announced the launch of its”Game Changers” North American ad campaign, which begins this month.

“This is the largest advertising campaign for Mazda in the last 13 years, but more importantly, it is the most far-reaching and significant campaign in our history,” said Russell Wager, vice president of marketing, Mazda North American Operations.

The campaign will revolve and showcase several historically significant people who found a new way to excel at their respective disciplines, something the Japanese automaker takes pride in doing itself.

In its own view, Mazda has changed the game in the automotive world “to develop not just a suite of environmental and dynamic technologies, but a philosophical thought behind manufacturing a vehicle that has erased the proverbial line between efficiency and driving dynamics.”

The new ad campaign will be seen throughout North America in movies, television, print, and digital media. Much of the advertising campaign will center around the automaker’s SkyActiv technology which has allowed Mazda to build vehicles with excellent fuel efficiency, low emissions, and stellar driving dynamics.

“Game Changers will be the unifying advertising campaign to tell the story of Mazda’s rich heritage in developing new and different ways to build outstanding vehicles, both for the immediate future and the launch of the 2014 Mazda6 sedan, but also to support the ongoing development of our strongest-ever product onslaught,” Wager said.

GALLERY: Mazda “Game Changers” Ad Campaign

Discuss this story at MazdaWorld.org

Each week, we recap the most popular videos from AutoGuide‘s YouTube channel just in case all seven days passed you by and you missed out. This week, the battle of of mid-size sedans from Toyota and Honda takes top honors.

2013 Toyota Camry vs 2013 Honda Accord

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SEE ALSO: 2013 Toyota Camry vs 2013 Honda Accord

2013 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S Review

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SEE ALSO: 2013 Porsche 911 Carrera 4S Review

2013 Subaru BRZ vs. 2012 Honda Civic Si HFP

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SEE ALSO: 2013 Subaru BRZ vs 2012 Honda Civic Si HFP

Make sure to subscribe to AutoGuide‘s YouTube Channel for the latest in car news and reviews.

Honda is recalling nearly 46,000 Fit Sport models from the 2012-2013 model years to repair a problem with the sub-compact’s electronic stability control system.

According to the Japanese automaker, the stability control system in the affected vehicles may let the car tilt too far before it applies the brakes to prevent a crash. The issue was discovered during government testing of models with a particular set of tires. Honda has not received any reports of accidents or injuries related to the issue.

The Japanese automaker will notify affected owners in mid-May and they can take their vehicles to dealerships to have the system’s software updated free of charge.

Discuss this story at FitOwnersClub.com

It’s Friday and another work week is slowly…  drawing… to… a… close. Like Andrew Lloyd Webber’s epic musical CATS, this string of five days feels like it’s never going to end. At least people aren’t prancing around the AutoGuide offices in leotards and leg warmers. Meow!

The sweet aroma of freedom is wafting through the air as Saturday beckons from the other side of midnight. Normal business hours may be dwindling but like a Nevada brothel the Oracles never sleep. They on call ‘round the clock to provide car shoppers in distress with desperately needed assistance. A pitcher of espresso and a fistful or NoDoz are their only companions. Yeah, it’s lonely work but nobody said being an expert was easy.

This week Pat is in search of an affordable vehicle for her teenage daughter. Basic transportation is the order of the day but of course her offspring wants something with a little pizzazz; the girl’s been eyeing a Jeep Wrangler but momma says no. A high-riding four-by-four is verboten, just like access to the liquor cabinet or that high-school quarterback from the adjacent cul-de-sac.

Pat is considering a six-to-eight-year-old used vehicle, something reliable, safe and cheap to insure. An example she gave is the Honda Civic. That’s a fine choice but like a second-hand EpiPen pre-owned cars can be risky. Even with a CARFAX history report and a thorough inspection from a trusted mechanic they can still harbor hidden problems.

The Oracles have insisted on a new vehicle for Pat’s daughter who they’ve been referring to as “Abby.” They cannot be swayed on this issue. Attempted bribery with cream-cheese Danishes didn’t even work.

SEE ALSO: Need Advice Buying Your Next Car? Just “Ask AutoGuide!”

Factory-fresh vehicles feature numerous benefits over their used counterparts. They’re backed by impressive warranties, they’re equipped with all of the latest safety and convenience features plus they’ve never been slept in by a pack of weather-beaten drifters. Of course affordability is important and AutoGuide’s experts believe they can deliver a list of new vehicles that won’t break the bank. Here are some of the most inexpensive cars available today.

Suggestion #1: Nissan Versa 1.8 S Hatchback – $15,460

When price is the No. 1 priority it’s hard to beat the Nissan Versa. This B-Segment offering from the Japanese archipelago is a grand-slam value. The sedan version starts at just $12,000; most people probably have more loose change in their couch cushions than that.

The entry-level model is equipped with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers a strapping 109 horsepower. It’s matched to a five-speed manual transmission. Of course value is important in this week’s episode of Ask AutoGuide but driving like a pauper is not. The entry-level Versa is about as stark as the menu at a Soviet gulag.

Stepping up from there the Oracles are actually suggesting the Versa hatchback, specifically the 1.8 S. The lowest price for this car is about $15,500, which is still a steal by today’s standards.

Even with such an affordable base price the car is equipped with some surprising standard features including power windows and door locks, air conditioning with an in-cabin microfilter as well as a thumpin’ four-speaker sound system. Really, it’s everything you need in a car… and little else.

Under its nondescript hood the Versa hatch is powered by a 1.8-liter four-banger that delivers 122 horsepower. A six-speed manual gearbox is standard, but an abjectly antiquated four-speed automatic is an extra-charge option. The audacity! Higher-end Versas (that’s an oxymoron if we’ve ever heard one) are offered with Nissan’s fuel-saving but annoying Xtronic continuously variable transmission (CVT).

SEE ALSO: 2012 Nissan Versa Review

In the economy department Versas equipped with a manual gearbox deliver a recession-busting 26 miles per gallon in city driving and up to 31 on the highway. That’s ok fuel economy, but not great.

The Versa also comes with a “Good” safety rating, literally. The danger watchdogs at the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave the vehicle an overall “Good” rating in their rigorous offset crash test, which isn’t too shabby for a small car.

Suggestion #2: Toyota Yaris 3-Door L – $15,165

Toyota’s Yaris hatchback is the only vehicle on the road today that makes you talk like a pirate, yarrrr matey! Park one in your garage and everyday can be September 19^th.

Starting price for the three-door version of this salty cur is 15,165 buckaroos out the door, including destination and delivery fees. It undercuts the municipal-grade Versa by a couple hundred dollars. Clearly Toyota’s chumming the waters to attract ravenously value-conscious shoppers.

Still, even at that price the Yaris comes with some nice features. Air conditioning is standard as are fabric-trimmed seats (hopefully they’re not covered in burlap); power door locks, nine air bags and a fold-down back bench for extra luggage space are also included

Curiously, power windows are not offered on the base model, so limber up your wrists for a whole lot of crankin’. It’s like starting a Model T every time you head to the drive through.

Powering the Yaris is a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine and it only puts out a measly 106 horsepower. If Abby has ADHD this is the perfect vehicle for her as there’s nothing to get overly excited about. It’s the automotive equivalent of the Dewey Decimal system, functional and nothing more.

The Yaris L features a five-speed manual transmission for shift-yourself engagement. If three pedals are as off limits as a Jeep Wrangler then a four-speed autotragic gearbox is also available for an additional fee. Dig up your buried treasure chest because it’s $725.

SEE ALSO: 2012 Toyota Yaris Review

Like the Versa this little Toyota also earned a “Good” rating from the IIHS folks, but pushing the envelope one step further the car also drove away with “Top Safety Pick” honors, meaning it’s an even better choice if you have too much grog and drive off the gang plank.

Additionally fuel economy is a Yaris strong point. The car delivers 30 miles per gallon in the city and up to 37 on the highway.

Out and about the Yaris handles like a car, meaning it accelerates, stops and steers. Don’t expect driving excitement in any of these half-pint hatchbacks because you won’t find it. It’s a fruitless quest akin to searching for Amelia Earhart or trying to purchase booze from a Vatican City vending machine. At the end of the day just remember one thing about this Toyota: The Yarrrris is a carrrrr!

Suggestion #3: Hyundai Accent GS 5-Door – $15,590

If Nissan’s Versa is the DMV and the Toyota Yaris is a Social Security Administration branch office what low-level governmental building would the Hyundai Accent be? Answer: The post office, because stuff is always in motion. This spunky little five-door brings a healthy dose of passion and emotion to the segment without going totally off the deep end by bringing a scattergun to work.

Where the Versa and Yaris are strictly business the Accent is stylish and fun; it’s an attractive vehicle that a young person shouldn’t be embarrassed to drive. It beats the crap out of a hand-me-down ’94 Chevy Lumina.

Trouncing its Japanese competitors every Accent ships with 138 horsepower courtesy of a 1.6-liter inline-four. It’s postage-paid and insured; the car even clears customs without a hitch. The GS trim is delivered with a standard six-speed manual gearbox but an automated six-shooter is $1,200 extra.

As for creature features the Accent comes with much the same stuff its competitors do. Air-con is standard, as are luxurious body-colored exterior door handles. Protecting what matters most – its occupants – the car also earned a “Good” rating from the safety zealots at the IIHS. It’s not a “Top Safety Pick+” but an A- on the final exam is nothing to sneeze at.

SEE ALSO: 2012 Hyundai Accent GLS Sedan Review

Like a first-class letter arriving at its destination for a measly 40-something cents the Accent is equally thrifty at moving its cargo. Passengers and their parcels may not be hand-delivered by a uniformed representative of the U.S. federal government but you could do a lot worse than this South Korean subcompact. With a manual transmission the Accent should be able to stretch a gallon of unleaded 28 miles in the city and 37 on the highway.

Suggestion #BONUS ROUND: 2013 Mazda2 – $15,515

Betcha didn’t think of Mazda, didya? The company’s offering in the B-Segment is the Mazda2, a smiling little pumpkin-seed of a car. It’s competitively priced compared to its rivals and offers similar fuel economy and safety ratings.

Behind that toothless grin is perched a 1.5-liter engine that turns out just 100 horsepower, less than the asthmatic Yaris and far behind the athletic Accent. Transmission choices include a five-speed manual or a four-speed autobox that’s shorter on gears than Verne Troyer is on inches. Heel, Mini-Me! Heel! A feather-light curb-weight of right around 2,300 pounds makes up for a lot of that power deficit. Now if only Mazda would make a Mazdaspeed version of the Mazda2.

Standard features are more bountiful than the first Thanksgiving. Power mirrors, windows and locks, air conditioning, a 60/40 split-folding rear seat plus a USB port are all included in the base price, which is right around $15,500.

Joyless insurance mongers even like the car. At the risk of sounding like a sounding like a sounding like a sounding like a broken record the Mazda2 also earned a “Good” overall rating from the IIHS.

SEE ALSO: 2013 Mazda2 Touring Five-Point Inspection

If there’s any one particular downside to this vehicle it’s fuel economy. The 2 is not particularly thrifty, even with pitiful horsepower and a trim waistline. Uncle Sam says the car will do 29 miles to the gallon around town and just 35 on the highway when equipped with the manual transmission.

Suggestion #HONORABLE MENTION

So far the AutoGuide Oracles have started something of an Asian offensive by only recommending Japanese and South Korean cars. To be fair that’s a bit skewed but it’s still better than an offensive Asian.

For some home-grown flair the Oracles decided to briefly touch on a couple other vehicles before pushing their final recommendation. First up is the Chevy Sonic. Base MSRP for a five-door model is $15,595.  For mechanicals it offers a 1.8-liter engine and a five-speed stick. A 1.4-liter turbo with tons of torque is optional. Fuel economy is 26/35 for an average of 30. The Chevy Sonic feels sturdy like a big car and that’s a good thing.

The Oracles can’t mention the Bow-Tie brand without bringing up its archenemy, the Blue Oval. Ford vs. Chevrolet is a classic rivalry that dates back more than a century. Today the Sonic and the Fiesta face off in the B-Segment. Ford’s festive hatchback starts at $14,995 and comes with a 1.6-liter engine and a five-speed row-it-yourself trans. Other than that there’s not much to say. According to the EPA Fiestas of this configuration should deliver 29/39 MPG, which makes for an average of 33. As always your mileage will vary, probably significantly.

And then there’s the Honda Fit, the third of this trio of add-ons. They’re all of the sportier sort and generally a better buy if you want to spend a bit more.

IN CONCLUSION…

So, what’s the right new vehicle for Pat’s daughter “Abby”? Well, a Jeep Wrangler of course, but since that’s not in the cards, here are her options.

The Versa is affordable and that’s about it. Nissan’s subcompact offering feels decidedly like something generic and that’s never a good thing. It’s safe and solid but about as dreary as waiting in line for jury duty. Next!

Aye-aye, it’s Yar-us versus them, matey! Toyota’s B-Segment car is arguably a step up from the Versa; at least it has a small dash of personality. Additionally it’s significantly more efficient and comes in a quasi-sporty three-door configuration. But ultimately crank windows and pirate talk are enough to keep the Yaris from running aground.

Of this quartet the Mazda2 is easily the most fun to drive, after all it has “Zoom-Zoom” DNA. It’s light, scrappy and offers a rather nice interior for the class. Unfortunately it’s not as efficient as some of the others, meaning there’s one other vehicle that’s a better overall choice… the Jeep Wrangler…

This week the AutoGuide Oracles are recommending the Hyundai Accent. It’s pretty, powerful and efficient, plus it’s a great value. It’s an automotive jack of all trades, which makes it the perfect vehicle for a budget-minded young driver. And if there are any doubts about longevity, the car is backed by a 5-year, 60,000-mile new-vehicle warranty as well as 10-year, 100,000-mile powertrain coverage. Cha-ching!

As always, good luck in your quest for a new car and thanks again for taking the time to Ask AutoGuide.

If you need a little assistance shopping for your next vehicle feel free to do the same. Send a short message to ask@AutoGuide.com. Let us know the basics of what you’re looking for. How many seats do you need? What size of vehicle do you want? How much are you willing to spend? With some of those fundamentals out of the way we’ll get busy to come up with two or three must-see vehicles that you’ll have to put on your test-drive list.

Compact cars are affordable, they’re usually a lot of fun to drive and can deliver impressive fuel economy numbers. As government regulators push for ever-greater efficiency, small sedans and hatchbacks are becoming increasingly important.

While their list of virtues may be long, C-Segment cars do have some liabilities. For starters they’re usually not very spacious. Tall passengers can find their back seats about as roomy as a straight jacket. Likewise, luggage space is severely constrained. No one buys a Civic for hauling sheets of plywood.

Still, compacts are frequently called upon to lug loads of junk to upstate colleges; they’re asked to handle an extended family’s worth of Christmas shopping during the holidays; and they’re even enlisted to serve truck duty by hauling bags of topsoil or ready-mix concrete from home-improvement stores. Like mini moving trucks, drivers put these vehicles through their paces, and even though they may not have a lot cargo or passenger volume, room is an important factor to consider.

Here’s a list of the Top 10 Small Sedans with the Most Trunk Space.

Hatchbacks have a ton of versatility and use, and they’re also quite affordable, not to mention fuel efficient.

When it comes to the most affordable hatchback, there’s quite a few options out there. Unlike the Honda GEAR concept pictured above (which could preview a new affordable subcompact for the Japanese brand) all the cars on this list are easily attainable, and are competitively priced. Our top ten is seperated by a slim $4,000 margin from cheapest to most expensive. Check out the whole list, and see which cheap hatchback is the right choice for you!