Small Car

Japanese carmaker Isuzu has a long history in the U.S., though its time producing and selling passenger vehicles in the States was relatively short. Isuzu’s presence in America was bolstered considerably by partnering with General Motors, cooperating on the production of small vehicles, commercial trucks, and diesel engines. Though Isuzu abandoned the U.S. consumer market in 2009, the company still makes and retails medium-duty trucks here.

Between 1976 and 1987, the Chevette sold in gargantuan numbers. Not because the car was “good,” but because the tiny Chevrolet struck the perfect balance of price and fuel efficiency, and it wasn’t too small for American car shoppers. That said, the Chevette was a strange choice for a company looking to create a custom luxury car.

All things being equal, we suggest you put the Santa Fe near the top of your midsize crossover test-drive list—regardless of the drivetrain. While Hyundai’s smaller midsize offering is no longer a bargain, it is reasonably priced, and it is frankly excellent by most measures. And if you find the cabin appointments a little too nice, feel free to step down a trim level or two, and save some money on the purchase price.

Jill and Tom chat with Scout Motor's Ryan Decker about the brand's coming launch, and what to expect from the the maker's first models, the Traveler SUV and Terra pickup truck.

In short, it's a practical but limited emergency solution for flats. Always check your vehicle's manual for specific limits on your mini spare.