Hot hatches... Which do you prefer? (Sub-Compacts)

**empy** · September 22nd, 2007 08:32 PM

i have only tried driving or riding in the Yaris, Jazz, Swift and Versa. the Versa would be my choice of the four, because it is surprisingly roomy and surprisingly powerful...although the USDM engine probably has a more powerful (and gas guzzling) engine than the ones sold in Asian markets.

the Demio looks like it has good potential, especially with the great driving dynamics that Mazda has been able to put in its Mazda3...maybe some of the magic of big brother was handed down.

all in all, i would stick with what i know and go with the Versa, although looks-wise i like the Yaris the best. the Mini Cooper S would trump all of these, but that is in a different price range, of course.

**basti08** · September 22nd, 2007 09:30 PM

I think the Versa/Tiida, size-wise, is meant to compete with compacts. its pricing though is competitive with that of the subcompacts. So, features and power, the Versa/Tiida has the edge (its heavier too).
The Getz borders on the sub-compact and minicar segment. It's biggish as a minicar but a tad small as a sub-compact. Locally, it competes with sub-compact cars so i threw it in the options. But the Accent, is really Hyundai's bet for the sub-compact segment.
The Swift is really a mini-car, but engine, features and pricing made it a Jazz/Yaris main rival.

**CVT** · September 22nd, 2007 09:49 PM

It still is the Jazz for me..... Aesthetics, functionality and technical innovation....

Luv.Jazz

3909:trampoline:

**empy** · September 22nd, 2007 10:44 PM

basti makes a very good point, the Versa is kinda big. in person, it looks only a little bit smaller than a Mazda 3.

the Jazz is deceptively roomy. much smaller than the Versa, but the placement of the cabin and the boxy exterior design allow it to maximize its interior space.