“Whether you’re looking for a hatchback, sedan, or a micro car, the 2015 model year has all-new vehicles in that segment and more…”

If you’re in the market for a new car but don’t haven an unlimited budget, fear not… you have quite a few options.

AS 2015 VW Golf

VW Golf ($18,995)

The VW Golf is undeniably popular. With more than 30 million sold around the world since it first hit the streets, it just keeps getting better. For 2015, the ever-popular 3 or 5-door variant comes with a new engine, new architecture and new sheet metal.

Based upon Volkswagen’s latest technological masterpiece, the “MQB Platform”, the Golf embodies the spirit of the original, and incorporates all of the latest engineering advances. It is the safest, best-handling and roomiest Golf of all time.

Thanks to the use of high-strength steel, it’s more rigid, but also safe, with better handling. Though the Golf has grown in size it has dropped in weight by up to 35.8 kg/79 pounds (depending on model.)

An all-new, 1.8L direct-injected turbocharged engine, delivering 170 horsepower and 184 pound power it-feet of torque.

The shape and design elements remain as defined, as ever, with a distinctive C-pillar and roofline framing classic Golf side windows, but the striking new front end and steeply sloped hood leave no doubt this is an all-new model.

AS 2015 Subaru Legacy 01

Subaru Legacy ($23,495)

The all-new Subaru Legacy will pleasantly surprise those in need of a mid-size sedan with all-wheel drive.

Priced under $24K, its trunk accommodates for 425L, there’s room for five, and its 2.5L, 4-cylinder engine produces 175 horsepower.

On the base model, you have the choice of a 6-speed manual or an available Lineartronic CVT with paddle shifters and manual mode.

One of the weakest points of the Legacy was probably the interior. For 2015, it’s significantly updated. Its infotainment system also receives a much needed revamping. Inside the entry-level Legacy 2.5i you’ll find an AM/FM stereo with SiriusXM satellite radio, a Radio Data Broadcast System, an in-dash CD player, a 6.2-inch multi-function touchscreen display, Subaru STARLINK connectivity with smartphone integration, a rear-view camera. Furthermore, the multi-touch display offers swipe and scrolling gestures, similar to smartphones and tablets.

AS 2015 MINI Cooper

MINI Cooper ($20,990)

MINI’s street legal, go kart-like Cooper is now in its third generation and better than before.

This pint-sized 3-door can be outfitted with a choice of two new engines: either a 3- cylinder engine with a peak output of 134 horsepower or, if you move up to the S trim, you’ll get a 4-cylinder engine with an output of 189. You can match either engine with either a 6-speed manual or an available 6-speed automatic.

And as the MINI Cooper grows up, it also grows in dimensions. It’s 114 mm longer, 44 mm wider and 7 mm higher than its predecessor.

AS 2015 Honda Fit

Honda Fit ($14,495)

Unveiled at the 2014 North American International Auto Show, the all-new, five-passenger, five-door vehicle comes with style and flair.

And just because it doesn’t have a huge price tag, it doesn’t mean you don’t get some pretty great standard features.

Those include things like: Bluetooth connectivity, a multi-angle rearview camera, and Expanded View Driver’s Mirror.

For customers looking for premium features in the subcompact segment, the Fit will be available with smart entry with push-button start, heated side mirrors, heated front seats, Honda’s exclusive LaneWatch display and a 7-inch Display Audio touchscreen interface with HondaLink smartphone connectivity.

The 2015 Fit marks the debut of an all-new direct-injected 1.5-litre DOHC i-VTEC engine. It produces 130 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 114 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,600 rpm. Engine output is increased by 13 horsepower and 8 lb-ft of torque compared to the outgoing engine

For those who love the versatility of Honda’s exclusive Magic Seats, they continue through this generation. It provides an amazing 1492.3 L of cargo space when the second row seats are folded flat.

AS 2015 Nissan Micra

Nissan Micra ($9,998)

It’s small and comes with a small price tag, but expect big things from the all-new Nissan Micra.

At one of Canada’s lowest MSRPs – it competes directly with the Mitsubishi Mirage for that title – it’s amazing what you can get for so little.

The base model comes with manual windows and a manual transmission. It handles quite well and the cabin isn’t particularly loud when driving at highway speeds.

The Micra is designed to not only meet or exceed Canadian safety regulations, but exceed them. Micra’s standard safety systems include the Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) (includes front supplemental air bags, front seat-mounted side-impact supplemental air bags, roof-mounted curtain side-impact supplemental air bags), Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) and Traction Control System (TCS).

Under its hood is a 1.6L, 4-cylinder engine that produces 109 horsepower and 107 lb-ft of torque. Okay, it’s not a lot but certainly enough to get you around.

Available in three models, the Micra S, SV and top-of-the-line SR, these micro cars will be able to be matched with a 5-speed manual transmission, or a 4-speed automatic transmission.

Whether you’re looking for a hatchback, sedan, or a micro car, the 2015 model year has all-new vehicles in that segment and more.

Contact: alexandra [dot] straub [at] drivewaybc [dot] ca

Whatever the financial circumstances, young buyers will surely share the desire for a car that is economical to operate… (more…)

The Micra is affordable transportation with amiable drivability, an easy-on-the eyes interior and overall a bubbly personality… (more…)

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