EVEN with current slow sales of motor vehicles and expectations in some quarters that prices will hold at least for the first half of the year, operational costs are nonetheless increasing rapidly.

With mounting gas prices pushing the daily costs to run a vehicle, economy cars are increasingly becoming more attractive.

SUVs, although the vehicle of choice for many, are way above budget for the typical entry-level consumer both to purchase and operate.

New or pre-owned, smaller more frugal vehicles such as the Suzuki Swift and Honda Fit on the other hand possess brand appeal, are less expensive and offer resale value.

And, most importantly, are easier on the pocket to maintain.

SUZUKI SWIFT

Price: 1300cc —$2.00 million approx

    1500cc — $2.5 million approx

Engine(s):

1300cc DOHC-16V 1500cc VVT DOHC-16V

Body style:

5-door hatchback Transmission: 5-speed manual

    4-speed automatic

Dimension:

Wheelbase — 2,390 mm (94.1 in) Length — 3,755 mm (147.8 in) Width — 1,690 mm (66.5 in) Height — 1,510 mm (59.4 in)

Brakes:

ABS, Front - ventilated disc, Rear - drum Tyres: 165 / 70R14, 185 /

60R15 Top Speed: 180kph (speedometer) Fuel Tank Capacity: 43 Litres

Fuel consumption: unavailable Safety Features: Front airbags

(driver/passenger) Special Features: AM/FM/CD player, keyless start

system (available)

HONDA FIT

Price: $2.0 million approx Body style: 5-door hatchback

Engine:

Europe and Japan markets 1.3 L 4 cylinder i-VTEC 1.5 L 4 cylinder i-VTEC North American market 1.5 L 4 cylinder i-VTEC

Transmission:

Europe and Japan markets CVT 5-speed manual 5-speed automatic North American market 5-speed manual

Layout:

Front-wheel drive /four-wheel drive

Dimension:

Wheelbase

— 2,500 mm (98.4 in) Length — 3,900 mm (153.5 in) Width — 1,695 mm

(66.7 in) Height —1,525 mm (60 in) Tyres: 165 / 70R14 Fuel Tank

Capacity: 42 Litres (11 US gal /9 imp gal ) Fuel Consumption:

unavailable Brakes: ABS Safety Features: Airbags (passenger and driver)

Special Features: 60:40 split rear seat. Offers a low, flat surface

increasing cargo area that can hold items as long as seven feet

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