Are small and cute cars the way to go?

By jaytee, 04 June 2021

Cute, tiny, compact cars may be an ideal choice for some people. Small engines, easy manoeuvrability, ease of parking, and adorable looks (to some). Conversely, you have people who abhor such compact cars. Obviously, there are drawbacks to owning such tiny vehicles. Lack of interior space for one, with little to no room for additional passengers or baggage. Tiny fuel tanks. Lack of visibility on the road. The list goes on.

But for the most part, small cute cars are jolly good fun. Not in terms of performance, but in terms of raw charm or charisma. There is a particular appeal of cars like these that elicits curious looks from onlookers or other motorists. Smiles for miles is the name of the game, however absurd or quirky these cars might be. And in some instances, these cars may actually make more sense than you’d think.

Hell, even I’d consider buying one of these cars. That is, if I had the spare cash.

BMW i3

Ever seen suicide doors on a small EV? Here you have it, the BMW i3. The car pictured above is the i3 REx, which means it has a tiny 647cc engine that potters away to enable the electronic gubbins to do their thing. But it is cute, no? And rather quick too, because it churns out 170hp and 250Nm of torque. That's instant torque, given that it's an EV.

(Click HERE to read more about the BMW i3 REx)

Suzuki Jimny

The Suzuki Jimny may not be small in all regards, but it is definitely an interesting car. Yes, it only has a top speed of 140km/h. Yes, it only produces 101hp and 130Nm of torque. But the Jimny is a car that can’t be measured based on performance metrics. Small as it may be, you'd be surprised to know that it's actually got the off-roading chops to back that boxy design. But as far as 4x4 off-roaders go, this is positively tiny. No doubt about it, this car fulfills the “cute” archetype.

(Click HERE to read more about the Suzuki Jimny)

Aston Martin Cygnet

Looking for something cute, compact, but carries itself with the air and poise of a true British grand tourer? We humbly present, the Aston Martin Cygnet. Cute isn't it? An Aston Martin badge, with a Toyota engine under the hood. That's right, beneath all the Aston-esque design touches and fancy rims, it is a Toyota iQ beneath all the glitz. But as far as Aston Martins go, this is the smallest of the lot by a large margin. As a bonus, you can tell people you drive a two-seat, two-door Aston. They can’t rightfully fault you for that.

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