Large, over-sized automobiles are virtually something out of a dark past from which auto purchasers are finally beginning to emerge. Common sense is speaking to more and more people every day, and the sales of compact hatch-backs are starting to surge ahead in the extremely important auto industry of this century. Sales of SUV’s are diminishing. Saving money in the form of saving petro is starting to define the industry and define people’s consciousness as well. Factored into the financial savings is an entire ‘slant’ on the environmentally friendly nature of the product.

Australia is one ‘leader of the pack,’ so to speak. Their concern for the environment coupled with a concern for a person’s pocketbook is leading Australia into the future possibly faster than some other countries. Size, savings, safety and car maneuverability are ‘up-front’ concerns as the Australians purchase their next performance vehicle. Seeing the auto as a means of transportation rather than luxurious living quarters is becoming the standard that governs much of the purchasing of today.

It is vital to see the strides that companies are making in each country. The auto industry is really a part of the global market which aids in overall creativity and capitalistic-style competition. Ford, Hyundai and Mazda are forging their way to the top and leaving behind the Getz and various other brands. Following are some of the most sought small cars in Australia today:

• Mitsubishi released its first mass-marketed electric car in Australia. The i-MiEV is able to go 160km on one charge. It is then important to find a charge-station to do a re-charge* and Australia is providing more stations all the time.

*Re-charge stations require 30 minutes for a charge, where one done at home can take 7 hours. There are no CO2 emissions with the electric cars but one has to wonder how much more CO2 is created at the power plants at times of charging.

• The Mazda2 is very popular on the Australian auto scene, providing owners with a fuel efficient auto that is stylish and extremely competitive. It was first marketed in 1996 as Mazda, with newer small cars now called Mazda2.

• The Hyundai Getz is one of Australia’s more popular small cars, though it is slated for extinction in the near future. The Getz presents style in an extremely economical format.

• Toyota Yaris is the third most popular car in Australia; it made its premiere debut in Melbourne in 2011. It is a subcompact that gets great mileage. The 2012 version markets as a Yaris, yet is considered to be a new model, the Vitz. This model has increased slightly in size to provide greater leg room for its passengers. This change has produced a slight change in the centre of gravity that makes the car a bit safer. It also has a sleeker appearance and some other attributes that may ultimately make the New Yaris even more desirable.

• The new Mitsubishi Colt will hit the market soon. The first Colt was produced in 2003 but today its popularity has grown. It is considered the most globally marketable, very small car that will rival the Ford Fiesta for the lime-light in all countries, including Australia.