FWIW - I bought a 2006 used Saturn Ion 2 with all the options,
sunroof, 11000 miles. It just came off 1 year lease. I was very
interested in either a FIT or YARIS, however every one of those
vehicles coming into this area until the end of the year is already
sold. I had the option to buy one sight unseen, and I would have
received it in January. The Saturn I got, in a new 2007 version costs
$17000. I got it for $12000. It will be garaged and cared for so
even though I would agree F/Y are better quality, this vehicle should
certainly provide satisfactory service to us. Also, it will tow 1000#
in case we want to pull a small fishing boat to the lake, which is
only 3 blocks from the house. Thanks to everyone for your input. It
was valuable information in making my decision.

On 2 Oct 2006 19:26:55 -0700, "ACAR" <getoutanpush@yahoo.com> wrote:

>
>Chris Lamb wrote:
>>
>> Of those 4 vehicles, and understanding my determinants, and hopefully
>> YOU knowing a whole lot more about these vehicles than I do, which
>> would you buy and why?
>
>Nissan Versa has a larger engine than its competitors so it may be able
>to tow your boat and still provide decent mpg.
>
>Element is not especially fuel efficient - a 2007 Camry delivers better
>mpg and is a much safer vehicle; Camry can tow 1000 lb.
>
>If you drive in town the new tiny cars offer some advantages. If you
>drive on the highway you should try to verify that the tiny cars will
>actually deliver the rated mpg and you should test drive them to see if
>you are satisfied with their highway performance.
>
>I'd probably buy a used Camry or Accord or Corolla rather than a new
>Fit, Yaris or Versa if I needed a commuter car (but I need highway
>performance/safety for my commute).
>