One consequence of the bigger-is-better mindset is how "small car" somehow came to mean "cheap car." Remember how recently power windows and locks were luxuries? Don't bother asking for CD; even cassette cost extra. What, you expect all body panels to have matching colors? Enough power to overtake a Schwinn rider? Power steering? Hey, let's not get greedy.
Thanks in part to recent video games and certain movies better left unseen, perceptions are changing. For the first time, most entries in the compact car ranks are now packed with features and driving hardware found on bigger, costlier cars. Many advertise their sporty nature and often go all the way by dressing the part - a sure sign of feeling confident. Why shouldn't they? They can do everything done by cars from a class up (or two), and with more ease.
Fun-with-less seems to be the plan of Japan's four underdogs. Mazda's 3, Mitsubishi's Lancer, Suzuki's Aerio, and Subaru's Impreza have more in common besides getting their clocks cleaned by the Civic in the sales race. Their engines range from 2.0 liters to 2.5; 1.5 was a common starting point not long ago. Their wheel diameters go up to 17 inches and wear serious tires; we used to be lucky to get all-season rubber on 14s. All have sport suspensions. All offer a wagon as a second body choice. And they're the only Japanese imports that are actually imported.
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