Model Tested: 2017 Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid Blue Engine: 1.6-liter I-4 Atkinson-cycle, 104 horsepower 109 lb-ft torque plus electric motor, 43 horsepower 125 lb-ft torque, net system power 139 hp, 195 lb-ft Transmission: 6-speed twin-clutch automatic transmission, front-wheel-drive EPA Rating: 57-mpg city/59-mpg highway/58-mpg combined … read more

Model Tested: 2017 Fiat 500 Pop Hatchback Engine: 1.4-liter I-4, 101 horsepower 97 lb-ft torque Transmission: 6-speed automatic transmission, front-wheel-drive EPA Rating: 27-mpg city/33-mpg highway/29-mpg combined Base Price: $14,995 As Tested: $19,120 Performance: Excellent fuel economy; our best was 35.0 hwy Sport mode … read more

Model Tested: 2017 Honda Civic Hatchback Sport Engine: 1.5-liter I-4, 180 horsepower 177 lb-ft torque Transmission: 6-speed manual transmission, front-wheel-drive EPA Rating: 30 mpg city/39 mpg highway/33 mpg combined Base Price: $21,300 As Tested: $22,135 Performance: Strong, easy revving turbocharged engine Butter-smooth 6-speed … read more

Model Tested: 2015 Subaru Impreza 2.0i Sport Engine: 2.0-literflat four-cylinder gas, 148 horsepower, 145 lb-ft torque Transmission: CVT automatic transmission, all-wheel-drive EPA Ratings: 27/City—36/Highway—31/Combined Base Price: $23,295 As Tested: $26,885 Performance: Reasonable acceleration, but nothing like the WRX variant Smooth CVT transmission Seamless … read more

Model Tested: 2014 Ford Fiesta SE Hatchback  Engine: 1.0-liter I-3 Turbo Ecoboost, 123 horsepower 125 lb-ft torque  Transmission: 5-speed manual transmission front-wheel-drive EPA Ratings: 32/City—45/Highway—37/Combined Base Price: $16,080 As Tested: $18,585  Performance: Surprisingly peppy performance from such a small engine Smooth 5-speed manual … read more