Compare and Contrast

I built a little spread sheet (because who doesn't like spread sheets?) comparing the car models I was interested in.  It helps me consider what the advantages and disadvantages are.

The biggest problem I have is that the prices aren't really going to be the prices.  I mean, how often do you hear about floor mats being "thrown in" or negotiating a discount on the model that's on the floor or whatever.  Still, it's what I got from building the cars on their individual websites as closely as I could match them.

Sorted by cheapest to most expensive.  I created the cars trying to get the three "options" that I'd really like to have, though as you can see I couldn't build the Fiesta or the Yaris with cruise control for some reason...  Still, since they're already topping the price list range and not offering very much in the way of cargo room (or any room in the Yaris' case).  It looks like I get the most from the Fit with the least amount of money as "options" that are important to me come standard.  The Nissan Versa is coming in a close second in the numbers game, though almost EVERYTHING is an add on, so we'll see what the real-world add-up is.  The Kia Soul + is in the top running as well; definitely the most distinctive vehicle of the group.

It's time to start setting up test drives.  Per Consumer Reports, I should have a checklist for inside and out (there example is WAY more thorough than I will ever be, but is a good reference), as well as a planned test driving route.  The route is planned to be about 45 minutes and includes all the types of driving I do: highway, city (residential and business), and dirt road.  They also recommended I call the dealership to make sure they at least have the model in the engine size and transmission I'm interested in so I can test the car I actually want, not the one they want to sell me.

I've got a lot going on, but I hope to set up at least the Honda, Nissan, and Kia test drives all on the same day and knock them out.  I'm sure I'll be taking notes and sharing my thoughts.

Update: 2011 Elantra

Thanks, Consumer Reports Blog, for a super-timely update on the 2011 Elantra!  Looks like the re-design for this year is even better than the quite good 2010 Elantra.  Hmm... maybe it will earn a higher place on the list?

First Look Hyundai Elantra (Video embedded in article webpage)

"Why do you think I have this OUTRAGEOUS Accent?"

"... you silly English kin-ig-it!"

My original thought was to look into the VERY inexpensive Accent.

Seriously, the hatch version starts at $9,985.  However, it only comes in a 3-door (2 passenger doors and a hatch) version, and I'd really prefer true back-seat doors.  Also, it's cheap because it's, well... cheap.  The base model doesn't even have ABS as an OPTION.  Now, I know how to break so they don't lock up, but resale wise not having that pretty basic standard feature is kinda crap.  Needless to say, the Accent was eliminated from my list after about 3 minutes of research.

Onto the Elantra Touring.

Base Model MSRP: $15,995 (no additions)
EPA Milage: 23/31

The Elantra is Hyundai's compact sedan, the Touring is the hatch version.  It comes will all the safety features standard (unlike the Accent) and some of the perks I want in a car like keyless entry.  The only possible add-ons would be cruise control and MAYBE steering wheel audio controls.

Too bad it's totally a mom-mobile:

Reviews on the Elantra SE are quite favorable, though.  Enough to make me think about looking at the sedan model:

Pretty sexy, no?  With a starting price tag of $14,830 (more than $1K lower than the hatch) and EPA mileage 29/33, it seems to be a better buy.  But is it really?  Let's compare (thanks, Hyundai website!)

Elantra GLS, MT	Elantra Touring GLS, MT
$14,830	$15,995
EPA mileage 29/33	EPA Milage: 23/31
Anti-Trap trunk release	not an option
Auto Headlights w/ off	not an option
Remote Trunk Release	not an option
A/C option	A/C standard
Trip Computer	not an option

So, the only thing I'd *loose* is standard AC.  I'd gain the standard remote doors and trunk.  Some of the options, like Cruise Control, remain the same.  So, unless the AC is $1K, the sedan IS a better buy then the Touring.  Reviews? Consumer Reports video:



Popular Mechanics Review of Hyundai Elantra

End result: Accent is off the list as is the Elantra Touring, but the Elantra sedan has made the list; the only sedan in a sea of hatches.


Potential Cars:

1. Honda FIT
2. Kia Soul
3. Hyundai Elantra
? Ford Fiesta
? Nissan Versa (& Cube)
? Mazda MAZDA A2 (& A3 5-door)
10. Toyota Yaris

Eliminated:
Kia Rio 5
Toyota Matrix
Hyundai Accent
Hyundai Elantra Touring

TOYOTA

To start, I still have faith in the Toyota brand even after the gas-pedal recall hullabaloo.  Recalls were widespread, sure, but they also resolved all the issues quickly and thoroughly.  My Runner and Face both drive Toyotas and are happy with their vehicles.  I've never heard anyone complain about having a "lemon" with a Toyota.  I'm a little over the typical Prius "I drive a hybrid so I can drive my car 1/4 mile down the road because I'm better than you" driver, but that's Society's fault, not Toyota's.  (I know not all Prius drivers are holier-than-thou- several of my damneder-than-thou relatives drive Priuses... just using a stereotype to save time.)

So, I like the idea of driving a Toyota.  The two hatch-back cars are the economy Yaris and the sedan Matrix.  Both have incredible standard safety features, like all Toyotas.  How do they stack up against the Fit, and my budget in general?

Toyota Yaris (5-door Hatch)

Base Model, ST, MSRP: $13,155

Est. MPG City/Hwy: 29/36

Need upgrade package for power locks & remote key.  Upgrade from radio also needs package.  Cruise control is an option.

Stability Control is standard.

Priced for my area w/convenience package (for CD player & aux jack, split fold-down back seats, and extra heating) price is $14,945.  Would want to add CC, but not an option on a "build a Yaris" so I'm not sure how that would affect the price.  

Consumer Report's video review.  Basically says outright it's a bit of crap for the money you spend, and the Fit's a superior car.  Other reviews (linked below) mention the same issues- pricey with options, noisy, sluggish response... Great mileage, though!  Breaking point?  Two measly cup holders for the front seats.  Pppphhhbbbbttttt!!!!!  Yaris, you're at the end of the list- yes, even below the Kia. 

Edmunds Review of the 2011 Yaris
US News Review of the 2011 Yaris

Toyota Matrix 

Base Model, ST, MSRP: $16,700

Est. MPG City/Hwy: 26/32

As with Yaris, most convenience stuff is in a package- power locks, remote entry, etc.  It has a telescopic steering wheel adjust like the Fit, and at least the CD player/Aux Jack is standard.  Has the same great safety features including Stability Control all standard.  Have to go to the next model up, Matrix S AND get the AWD version for over $20k for AWD- not sure if it's needed, but would be interesting to drive the AWD model to see the difference.  Still, not really in the market for a $20k car.  Mileage kinda sucks, actually....

Priced for my area w/ "power package" which has extra winter stuff like a rear windshield wiper, plus power locks and keyless entry is $19,300.  Whelp, that's $20K which effectively prices the Matrix off of my list.  See ya!

The list as it currently stands:
1. Honda FIT
2. Kia Soul

? Hundai Accent (& Elantra Touring)
? Ford Fiesta
? Nissan Versa (& Cube)
? Mazda MAZDA A2 (& A3 5-door)
10. Toyota Yaris 

Eliminated:
Kia Rio 5
Toyota Matrix

I-Kia?

The Kia Rio 5

Base Model (Lx) AT MSRP: $15,095 (w/ "value package" $16,540)
Estimated MPG City/Highway: 27/35

Silver's more my color... but the burnt orange is nice.

This one's pretty much ruled out by not having a standard transmission.  Still, it's worth considering a Kia due to their great warranty.  The Rio 5 is the SAME as the Rio Sedan, but with a hatchback.  It's a decent car, stuff-wise, for a decent price.  But it's coming out below the Fit... the prices are essentially the same but the Rio has less standard safety features, and the Honda will hold it's value longer than the Kia.

Oh, huh... look at this article about the 10 Least Safe Cars of All Time... guess you're out, Rio.

While browsing the site, I noticed the Kia Soul.  The Soul is in the Roller Skate vein of cars (think Cube, Element, etc), but it's got just about everything I'm looking for.  Here's the base specs:

2011 Kia Soul + (the base model was a little more basic than I wanted to live with)

MSRP: $15,495 (w/ my options $16,275)

Estimated MPG City/Highway: 24/30

Quality standard safety features including Electronic Stability Control (ESB).  This model has the power locks/windows/keyless entry type features that I like with the option added of cargo liner etc.  The mileage isn't awesome, but the rest of the car is totally comparable to the Fit.  I'm not a fan of the "logo seat covers" that is the ONLY interior option, but whatevs.

Edmunds Review of the Soul  Highlight quote: "There are other choices to consider, naturally, including ... the Honda Fit, which has livelier handling and surprisingly cavernous cargo capacity."

Car and Driver Review of the Soul Highlight quote: "Looks are the whole ballgame here, because beneath the radically angled window line and the buff fender bulges and the seat fabric that glows in the dark with the word “soul” is basically a good-sized but unspectacular economy box."


After research, the Soul falls above the Rio, but still slightly below the Fit.  

The Perfect Fit

The 2011 Honda Fit.  Yum.  This is the car I will measure all others on my list against.  Still, buying a car is a Big Deal (note the capitols) and so I feel like I have to explore every option in a thorough manner to be comfortable signing away several thousand dollars and 4-5 years of my life.

4-Door Hatchback 5 person
Base Model, ST, MSRP: $15,100
Est. MPG City/Hwy/Combined: 27/33/29

The base model has A LOT standard, so that's sweet.  I've added splash guards, a liner to the cargo area and keyless entry because I am now spoiled and it's worth $150 to never have to search for the lock in the cold and dark.  I'll have to see how good the floor mats are in person, since I can get really great all-weather mats for about the same price as Honda retail.

It's got SPACE:

Back seat folds completely vertical.  Great for tall laundry baskets or hockey sticks.

Back seats fold completely flat.  Could fit a big ol' goalie bag o' gear in that pretty easily.

Viola!  Instant room for a full sized inflatable mattress OR room for Ultra gear & crew crap.

What's even better?  The 2011 model has Electronic Stability Control standard for only $200 more than the 2010 model.  Previously you'd have to get the Sport Navigation package which a)only comes with Automatic Transmission and b) adds $4,210 to the base price.  I don't really need the navigation option, and it seems silly to have a "sport" model with an Automatic Transmission.  So, I'm psyched that this recommended safety feature is now standard (has to be standard on every car by 2012, fyi).  Other sweet standard features are ten, count 'em TEN cup holders, power locks and windows, AC, Cruise Control, and USB/Aux jack stereo interface.

Relevant reviews:
US News
Car and Driver

Edmunds
(Consumer Reports update linked in the paragraph above)

Have you driven a Fit?  Any suggestions?

A Neeewww CAAARRRR!!!

In a previous post I detailed my new budget plan with the end-game of purchasing a new car.  In the next few posts I'll be going through some of the cars I'm looking at with stats, options, prices, and relevant reviews.  I'd love any input you have.

Background: I currently drive a 2002 VW Cabrio convertible.  It's effing ADORABLE.  It's great to paralell park, and nothing is greater than taking that top down on a warm sunny day and going ... anywhere.  The most mundane errands are fun when buzzing around in this cute little car.  And it IS little.  I can find a parking spot just about anywhere, which was a huge boon when I was still living in the middle of the city.  I bought it from a co-worker on the SUPER cheap, with low mileage and a pristine body (the car, not the co-worker).  I blame credit the Cabrio with getting My Runner and me together- if it wasn't for a dead battery the day of playoffs (and the subsequent week), who knows what wouldn't have happened?

 Hallo, Auto!

Everyone loves topless driving

So why the heck do I want to sell?  Well, it's a Volkswagon, so there's essentially zero cup holders.  I know that's a bit trite, but I'm really looking forward to driving without coffee nestled in my crotch.  It's an automatic transmission, and even though it has 1st-3rd as options, I miss having a manual transmission in the winter.  It doesn't get the awesome gas mileage you would think for a small car with a small engine.  It's SMALL.  I barely consider it a 4 person car and I feel like I could be accused of entrapment whenever I have to transport someone in the back seat (insert obligatory Mall Rats joke here).  The trunk space is nearly as sparse.  When My Runner and I took the Cabrio to VT for a long weekend our luggage took up pretty much ALL the extra space in the car.

What doesn't work with the Cabrio informed what I'm looking for.  I'd like a small hatchback with a manual transmission that gets good gas mileage and has a good sized interior.  And lots of cup holders, (though it seems that every non-German car realizes this need as new cars have an average of 27 cup holders per passenger.)  My budget informs my price range.  I'll be selling the Cabrio in the spring/summer (best time to sell a convertible) and using the cash from the sale and my savings as a down payment.  Using calculators from my credit union and on cnn.com I was able to determine that I can afford a 4-year loan in the $15-$17K range.

I have a relatively broad list of cars to research.  I'd love any insight or suggestions you have!
Potential Cars:

• Honda FIT (I *love* this car... the list is so long because I don't want to be too partial)
• Kia Rio5
• Toyota Yaris (& Matrix- concerned the Yaris will be too small and the Matrix too big)
• Hundai Accent (& Elantra Touring- same concerns as the Toyotas, but these cars are CHEAP)
• Ford Fiesta
• Nissan Versa (& Cube- not sure I love the Cube's weirdness, but it's like an Element thats $8K cheaper)
• Mazda MAZDA A2 (& A3 5-door- I see a LOT of A3's on the road)