Most Fuel Efficient

The 2011 Hyundai Accent is a sub-compact car and it is small in size compared to other Hyundai models. Whatever it lacks in size, it makes up in features. It is a reasonably priced car which is one of its strongest points. The 2011 Accent does not have much of a difference with the 2010 model in terms of appearance. It is still available in 2-door hatchback and 4-door sedan model. The hatchback model has three types of trim: base GL, midline GL and top line SE. The sedan model of the 2011 Accent has the same chassis but its body is slightly longer by 9 inches.

In terms of mechanical features, the 2011 Hyundai Accent is a front wheel drive vehicle which gives it more traction on slippery roads. It has a 4-valve cylinder with 1.8-liter capacity for each cylinder. It has 110 horsepower and 106 pound-feet torque which places it at a mid-level range for subcompacts. There are two types of transmission options: four-speed automatic or five-speed manual transmission. One of the best features of the 2011 Hyundai Accent is its fuel efficiency. It is one of the most fuel efficient cars of its range in the United States, running at 30 miles per gallon. It has a low-demand alternator and very minimal powertrain waste. The 2011 Accent has a torsion-beam rear axle which is a common feature in subcompacts. The sound system of the 2011 model has an upgraded audio system with a 172-watt system plus six speakers. It also has jacks for auxiliary input for MP3 players as well as USB.

The upcoming model has an antilock braking system which makes the car easier to control in case of an emergency stop. This braking feature is only available in the SE hatchback model and can be an optional add-on feature for the GS hatchback and the GLS sedan model. All of the 2011 models of the Hyundai Accent are equipped with a rear window defroster.

The seats of the 2011 Accent are adjustable so they can be adjusted according to the height and the comfort of the driver. The rear seats are also foldable which is very convenient if there is a need to stow big items in the car. The interior of the SE model has a leather-covered steering wheel, metallic finish on the accents and a leather covered shift knob.The 2011 Hyundai Accent is a car to watch out for if you are looking for a car that is sold at a reasonable price but is packed with really functional features.

Car brands come and go, but more so with individual models. American car manufacturers are often “disloyal” to certain models as evidenced by GM’s constant name changing when it comes to compact cars. The compact Vega gave way to the Cavalier which later became the Cobalt and is now sold as the Cruze worldwide.

Several models on the market as of 2011 will likely be pulled from the market in 2012 or 2013, some of which may be a big surprise to you. Let’s take a look at five car models, domestic as well as foreign, that are most vulnerable and likely to be terminated.

Buick Lucerne — This full size, front-wheel-drive five or six passenger sedan is based on a GM platform that dates back to the late 1980s. That in itself signals why the Buick Lucerne won’t be around much longer. Moreover, the brand has been given a new lease on life and is targeting up and coming professionals as its customers. That means the Lucerne just doesn’t fit the image of the new Buick. Look for the current Buick LaCrosse, a larger midsize model to take over the brand’s flagship sedan status and newer, smaller models such as the compact Verano to enter the line up.

Dodge Caliber — Following the eleven year run of the Neon, Chrysler decided to build this compact crossover-like vehicle. Although a capable performer, the Caliber never has stood out in a class of small cars. The most fuel efficient model is rated at 32 mpg which is far below the 40 mpg offered by the Hyundai Elantra. Chrysler will remedy the problem in 2012 when a Fiat-derived model replaces the Caliber. Much improved mpg is expected too, perhaps reaching 40 mpg.

Mazda 6 — Who would have thought that the sedan which spawned the popular Ford Fusion would go away? But, that’s something Mazda appears ready to do according to Automotive News. The Mazda6 is a slow seller and has been outflanked in a highly competitive segment dominated by the Toyota Corolla and Honda Accord and featuring new cars such as the Hyundai Sonata and Kia Optima. Mazda hasn’t signaled that the Mazda6’s plans are definitive, but the Japanese automaker reportedly would like to give up its Flat Rock, Mich. plant that it co-owns with the Ford Motor Company, quite possibly moving production to Mexico instead.

Mitsubishi Galant – Another midsize sedan that is vulnerable is the Mitsubishi Galant, a model that hasn’t been updated since 2004. Mitsubishi sales, which has fallen sharply in recent years are on the rebound, but the dated Galant is not leading the charge. This Japanese car manufacturer has a manufacturing plant in Normal, Ill., but will be introducing new models in 2012 before sealing the Galant’s fate. An updated Galant is possible, but likely will carry a new name if and when that vehicle debuts.

Subaru Tribeca — Originally called the B9 Tribeca, when this medium sized crossover made its debut in 2006, it featured a grille that was every bit as ugly as the Ford Edsel. Subaru eventually remedied the problem, but the Tribeca has never been a big seller for this Japanese automaker. In April 2011, Subaru recorded its best sales month ever in America, with 24,762 units sold, but only 241 Tribecas were included. Expect Subaru to concentrate on its Forester, Impreza, Legacy and Outback once it kills off the Tribeca.

Are other models vulnerable? Absolutely. Any car that doesn’t sell or isn’t updated will be removed from the market as automakers concentrate on selling cars that customers want and are profitable.