Best Car for City Driving?

City drivers look for vehicles that not only conserve gas and are easy to park, but are exciting to drive. Urbanites are like the rest of us, and they also want safety, reliability, driving comfort, and dare I say it—a little performance. A tough package for automakers is a dream drive for the city slicker, and you may find yourself weighing these perks in your final city car choice.  Here are a few things to think about when researching the right city vehicle for you.

1.) Encroachment the Norm

Always remember the city is a labyrinth of tight spaces. If you are primarily parking your vehicle on the street, remember that bumper taps, scrapes and scratches are the norm.

2.) Security

Remember that auto theft is increased in highly populated urban areas.  Many newer vehicles can be tracked through their onboard navigation, and you should think about the security features that are important to you. Fully insuring your vehicle against theft is also the best option for the urban cruiser.

3.) Costs of Vehicle in City

Gas prices, taxes, parking, registration, and overall vehicle costs are increased for those living and commuting in the city.  Before you jump behind the wheel, take the added expenses of city life into mind and calculate it into the average monthly cost of your vehicle.

4.) Is a Vehicle even Necessary?

Is a vehicle something you are always going to rely on?  Many city dwellers own cars that they do not even use.  Before you are swayed by excitement of a new vehicle in front of your pad, ask yourself if a car would be a burden rather than a benefit. Public transportation is available to most within the city perimeter, and a vehicle as well as associated costs may not be justifiable. In many cities, some companies provide a service where drivers can affordably rent a car for the day rather easily!

Now that you have thought about what is associated with owning a vehicle in the city, here are suggestions for the congestion, what’s hot in the parking spot, and of coarse; a few aces for city races.  Three cars for urban driving are spotlighted.

*Vehicle spotlights and specs are based on 2011 models.

Audi A3

Exterior and Interior superior, the Audi A3 is the pinnacle of sport luxury.  Top safety pick in an easy to park package, the agile and firm to handle A3 is loaded with impeccable comfort refinements.  Heated mirrors, dual climate control and 12-way driver powered seats make the A3 an excellent option for an urban dweller leaning towards a more luxurious city vehicle. It may not be the vehicle for those worried about bumper taps, theft and compact size.

Need to Know

• MSRP: $27,270
• MPG: 21 City/30 hwy
• Bumper-to-Bumper: Aprox. 14 feet

Mini Cooper

Riding retro since 2001, BMW’s Mini Cooper turns head for its look, size, fuel efficiency and handling.  Very compact, handling in the corners is sticky, and the feel is definitively go-cart’esk.  You wont find amazing comfort, room or refinement, but you will find driver-friendly design and feel.

Need to Know

• MSRP: $24,850
• MPG: 28 City/35 hwy
• Bumper-to-Bumper: Aprox. 12 Feet

Nissan Leaf

World’s first affordable full-electric zero emissions vehicle! Propelled by an 80kW electric motor and 24kWh lithium-ion battery pack, the 2011 Nissan Leaf allows drivers to travel about 100 miles on a full charge. Drivability is not sacrificed for electric mobility, as the Leaf comes standard equipped with keyless entry, navigation, and a Bluetooth phone system. As a Tops Safety Pick, the Nissan Leaf is a great choice for the city driver who does not like the gas station!

Need to Know

• MSRP: $32,780
• MPG: 106 city/92 hwy
• Bumper-to-Bumper: Aprox. 14.5 feet