Small Cars on the Way

Asian car makers such as Toyota, Honda, Kia, and Hyundai believe that U.S. automotive consumers are ready for small (read, tiny) cars that have been popular overseas for many years. Even Chevrolet is getting into the act with a Korean-made model, the Aveo.

What's the appeal? These cars, like the Toyota Yaris pictured here, are inexpensive and get outstanding fuel economy -- the perfect 0ne-person or two-person commuter car. The big difference between the new cars and mini-cars of some years ago is much improved quality. So, for about $10,000 you get a great little car that does about 35 miles on a gallon of gas.