Fuel-Sipping Compact Cars an Alternative to Hybrids and Electrics

A recent report from the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association highlights the aggressive development of fuel-sipping subcompact cars in Japan. It identifies the intense competition among Japanese automakers to achieve ever better fuel economy and how fast the technology is moving.

The Honda Fit gets 58 mpg and the Demio/Mazda2, with its Skyactive-G engine, achieves 71 mpg. The Daihatsu Move nets 64 mpg using a 660 cc engine, while the Nissan Micra/March nets nearly 69 mpg with its new DIG-S engine. These ratings are based on Japan's 10-15 test cycle. The Honda Fit and Mazda2 are sold in the U.S., but with somewhat more thirsty engines.

Nissan