Factoring in price - what's the best compact out now and why? (hybrid, MPG)
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What do you think? This category of cars includes the Dodge Dart now as well. The new Focus is nice but I think after you add a few options to it starts to get a little overpriced imho. I like the Veloster as well but I test drove it and thought the acceleration was really weak for bigger city driving and climbing 2 mile hills in my region of the country. I know the Civic is a good car but when I look at it I want to fall asleep. I'm leaning towards a Mazda3 at this point but looking for some input and thoughts.
What do you think? This category of cars includes the Dodge Dart now as well. The new Focus is nice but I think after you add a few options to it starts to get a little overpriced imho. I like the Veloster as well but I test drove it and thought the acceleration was really weak for bigger city driving and climbing 2 mile hills in my region of the country. I know the Civic is a good car but when I look at it I want to fall asleep. I'm leaning towards a Mazda3 at this point but looking for some input and thoughts.
Ive got same issue with focus AND 3.. when equipped the way I like, too far over 20k.. If I go that far might as well buck up 26ish for a tdi sportwagon or prius and double the COMBINED mpg and get a heck of alot more features/more car. Havent driven or priced a Dart yet, but already have same concerns with price.
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Originally Posted by wanderlust76
What do you think? ... I like the Veloster as well but I test drove it and thought the acceleration was really weak for bigger city driving and climbing 2 mile hills in my region of the country. ... I'm leaning towards a Mazda3 at this point but looking for some input and thoughts.
If hill climbing and performance is part of your criteria, BE SURE to try them all (as you want them equipped). I frequently rent compacts and can assure you there is a HUGE difference in performance / handling. I have been stuck for 2 wks in a Nissan driving curvy steep mtn roads. I thought that trip would never end. Similar trips in Toyota and Focus were semi enjoyable.
You CANNOT improve (engine / power / gearing) performance much, so get something you can stand to drive, forever.... (I will stick with diesels that you CAN enhance performance AND economy).
I would give the Mazda 3 a try-out. Some folks really like them. (handling)
The Dodge Dart really needs to be made into a two door, but like the Neon it appeals to nothing more than single moms in need of four doors.
I don't think the Dodge Dart seems that bad especially the R/T trim....Dodge has delayed the release of the R/T though. I like 4 doors I use the backseat for all kinds of things and I'm not a mom or a dad either one. After test driving the Veloster I guarantee the Dart has better performance and the Veloster is over 20k just like a Dart with similar options.
That thing looks like a cooler with wheels. The Mazda is worth a look especially with its economical new skyactive engine. Sporty handling w/ great mpg without having to go hybrid. The current Veloster is indeed underpowered but Hyundai has the turbo version coming out very soon. Have you taken a look at the Elantra?
Elantra is a good car they say but they are sooo common... they must be practically giving them away I see one on the road like every 5 minutes.
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