EARTHY CARS SPOTLIGHT: Sporty Compacts

The following cars are sporty, compact, and economical all at the same time. They’re not big in size, are pretty basic, but they are a little bit more stylish and nimble than the typical compact car.

They’re also inexpensive – most of these cars are under $10,000.

2003 BMW 325i xi Sedan, Gray, 93025 mi, $8,995 http://bit.ly/1dO9fIc AWD, Compact, 5-spd manual, MPG = 17/25

2008 BMW 328xi Sedan, Silver, 96712 mi, $12,995 $13,995 http://bit.ly/1oeai8s AWD, Compact, 6-spd manual, MPG = 17/25

2011 Mazda Mazda2 Sport Hatchback, Black, 64552 mi, $9,995 http://bit.ly/10lFgat Subcompact, 4-spd automatic, MPG = 27/33

2011 Mazda Mazda3 I Touring Sedan, Black, 38402 mi, $12,995 http://bit.ly/1qWGZYS Compact, 5-spd automatic, MPG = 24/33

2006 Saab 9-2X 2.5i Hatchback, Silver, 84909 mi, $7,995 http://bit.ly/1rvVY2k AWD, Compact, 4-spd Automatic, MPG = 19/25

2005 Saab 9-2X Linear Hatchback, Black, 88042 mi, $7,995 http://bit.ly/1rMMwqA AWD, Compact, 4-spd automatic, MPG = 20/26

2006 Saab 9-3 Aero Sedan, Red, 95142 mi, $6,995 http://bit.ly/1f3GZlw Compact, 6-spd Automatic, MPG = 15/26

EARTHY CARS SPOTLIGHT: SUVS + MINIVANS

Are you a mother, father, or family with multiple school age kids? If you are and only have a car, then you may want to consider upgrading to a minivan or SUV.

We have several minivans and SUVs on the lot.

2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Limited V6 SUV, 138813 mi, $10,995 http://bit.ly/YU2oLV Mid-size, Continuously Variable Automatic, MPG = 27/25

2011 Honda CR-V SE SUV, Brown, 57209 mi, $15,995 http://bit.ly/1wZkOXK 4WD, 5-spd automatic, MPG = 21/23

2003 Honda Element SUV, Blue, 119447 mi, $5,995 http://bit.ly/1kiBcAs 4WD, Compact, 4-spd automatic, MPG = 19/23

2005 Honda Odyssey Touring Passenger Van, Silver, 79781 mi, $11,995 http://bit.ly/1E1fAiZ 5-spd automatic, MPG = 17/23

2006 Honda Pilot EX-L SUV, Silver, 89993 mi, $11,995 http://bit.ly/1BAh9QS 4WD, 5-spd automatic, MPG = 15/20

EARTHY CARS SPOTLIGHT: Low Mileage Cars

Vehicles that have little mileage put on them can operate and run almost as good as a new car.

You can save a whole lot of money by purchasing a lightly used car, as opposed to a new vehicle.

2011 Ford Fiesta SE Hatchback, Green, 37798 mi, $10,995 http://bit.ly/1oeapka Subcompact, Automatic, MPG = 29/38

2012 Ford Focus SE Sedan, Silver, 30575 mi, $12,995 http://bit.ly/1oeaLY5 Compact, Automatic, MPG = 27/37

2012 Scion iQ CVT-I Hatchback, Grey, 6051 mi, $11,995 $13,995 http://bit.ly/1l7udJ6 Mini car, Automatic, MPG = 36/37

2011 Toyota Camry LE Sedan, Grey, 23285 mi, $15,995 http://bit.ly/1oec61b Mid-size, 6-spd automatic, MPG = 22/32

2011 Toyota Corolla LE Sedan, White, 40741 mi, $12,995 http://bit.ly/1w1pzSO Compact, 4-spd automatic, MPG = 26/34

2011 Toyota Corolla LE Sedan, White, 24836 mi, $13,995 http://bit.ly/1w1pM8C Compact, 4-spd automatic, MPG = 26/34

2012 Toyota Prius Plug-In Advanced Hatchback, Blue, 36830 mi, $23,995 http://bit.ly/1qHMNJ5 MPG = 50 (95 MPGe)

EARTHY CAR OF THE WEEK: 2011 Green Ford Fiesta SE Hatchback

2011 Ford Fiesta SE Hatchback, Green, 37798 mi, $10,995 http://bit.ly/1oeapka Subcompact, Automatic, MPG = 29/38

The Ford Fiesta SE is like most of the cars on our lot – it’s compact, economical, and fuel efficient.

However, the Fiesta SE is above and beyond the typical subcompact. The Fiesta is sportier and more dynamic than most basic subcompacts. It has a voice activated stereo system via a Bluetooth link to a Smartphone, as well as a trip computer.

It is the ideal car if you want to ride in style but want to keep it simple.

SPECS / FEATURES
AOL Autos

MSN Autos

VIRTUAL TOUR
AOL Autos

EXPERT REVIEWS
Via AOL Autos

NewCarTestDrive:

INTRODUCTION: “[The Ford Fiesta] is a car that today's newly arrived urbanites should find perfectly fitted to their needs, wants and comforts.

Inside, the Fiesta breaks new ground in the mobile multimedia market with a voice activated infotainment system (SYNC) that augments the traditional AM/FM/CD/MP3 stereo with audio and podcasts streamed into the car's sound system via a Bluetooth link to a smart phone. Non voice audio controls and for creature comfort settings revert to basic knobs and buttons that are sized and arrayed for ease of use with minimal distraction from the driving task.

Comfortable seats have enough side and bottom bolsters to keep occupants properly positioned, but gingerly, without obstructing ingress and egress. Quality of interior materials is either on a par with or a tick or two above the expected standard for cars in the new Fiesta's class.

The new Fiesta feels right at home running around town and on weekend errands. It slips conveniently into fleeting gaps in stop and go urban traffic and into space limited parking slots. Its 120 horsepower, 1.6 liter engine will take the daily commute in stride. Ride is smooth. Wind and road noise is decently muted. Steering feel is certain. Corners taken at responsible speeds reveal little body roll. This means it'll also handle quite well a relaxed Sunday drive to the coast or to a family gathering.

The two body styles make distinct statements. The sedan is an interesting combination of an American style econobox with softened edges and a high rear deck (trunk lid). The hatchback presents a more satisfying, Euro like profile, with nicely wedged side character lines and an almost sensuously rounded posterior. Choice is in the eye of the beholder, but both are pleasant and more than competitive in today's design conscious new car market.”

FEATURES:
“All have the same 120 horsepower, 1.6-liter, four cylinder engine.

The Fiesta comes standard with air conditioning; cloth upholstery; 60/40 split fold down rear seatback; four speaker, 40 watt AM/FM stereo with audio input jack; power door locks and outside mirrors; carpeted front floor mats; rear seat heat ducts; cloth door panel trim. Steel wheels with a six spoke hubcap wear 185/65R15 tires.

Fiesta SE ($14,320) comes with upgraded upholstery; metallic painted interior trim accents; power windows; trip computer; and 195/60R15 tires on aluminum alloy wheels.”

SUMMARY: “The 2011 Ford Fiesta is a fresh entry in an increasingly popular and important market, the small, fuel efficient runabout.”

USER REVIEWS
Via MSN Autos

SAFETY
MSN Autos

EARTHY CARS SPOTLIGHT: 6 CARS UNDER $6000

2003 Honda Civic Hybrid Sedan, Tan, 138123 mi, $4,995 http://bit.ly/ZeVPUT Compact, 5 spd manual, MPG = 38/45

2004 Scion xB Hatchback, Black, 103097 mi, $4,995 $5,995 http://bit.ly/1l7v90f Subcompact, 5-spd manual, MPG = 27/32

2005 Toyota Prius, Green, 201059 mi, $4,995 http://bit.ly/1qHMaPQ MPG = 48/45

2005 Dodge Grand Caravan SE Van Passenger, Silver, 87433 mi, $5,995 $6,995 http://bit.ly/1oow3oY 4-spd automatic, MPG = 17/24

2004 Honda Civic LX Sedan, Grey, 137740 mi, $5,995 http://bit.ly/UX239p Compact, 4-spd automatic, MPG = 25/34

2003 Honda Element SUV, Blue, 119447 mi, $5,995 http://bit.ly/1kiBcAs 4WD, Compact, 4-spd automatic, MPG = 19/23

EARTHY CARS SPOTLIGHT: Back To School

School started recently. Some of you students may be in the market for a pre owned car, if you don’t currently have one. We got you covered. Earthy Cars specializes in affordable, compact cars – which are ideal for students.

Here are four different car models that are ideal for college students:

The Element is ideal for those who are into outdoor activities, whether summer or winter. It has ample cargo space and a floor that resists scratched, water, and dirt.

2003 Honda Element EX SUV, Green, 134440 mi, $5,995 http://bit.ly/1oebzw1 4WD, 4-spd automatic, MPG = 19/23

The Fit is small, fuel efficient, environmentally friendly, and cute. You save a ton on gas money, park with ease, and help save the environment if you have a Fit.

2011 Honda Fit Sport Hatchback, Silver, 71289 mi, $11,995 $13,995 http://bit.ly/UX2wIq Subcompact, 5-spd manual, MPG = 27/33

2007 Honda Fit Sport Hatchback, Copper, 129887 mi, $7,995 http://bit.ly/1qHXLPx Subcompact, 5-spd automatic, MPG = 28/34

2007 Honda Fit Sport Hatchback, Blue, 30967 mi, $10,995 http://bit.ly/UX2D6N Subcompact, 5-spd automatic, MPG = 27/34

The Toyota Corolla has the same qualities as the Fit, except that it’s a sedan.

2010 Toyota Corolla Sedan, Grey, 77569 mi, $10,995 http://bit.ly/1f3FHH6 Compact, 5-spd manual, MPG = 26/35

2011 Toyota Corolla LE Sedan, White, 40741 mi, $12,995 http://bit.ly/1w1pzSO Compact, 4-spd automatic, MPG = 26/34

2009 Toyota Corolla Sedan, Silver, 68356 mi, $9,995 http://bit.ly/1oecZXr Compact, Automatic, MPG = 27/35

The Fiesta is efficient and small like the Fit and Corolla, but even more fuel efficient and sportier. It also has a premium stereo system for the music lovers.

2011 Ford Fiesta SE Hatchback, Green, 37798 mi, $10,995 http://bit.ly/1oeapka Automatic, MPG = 29/38

The Subaru Forester is Vermont’s official car. It’s got just enough cargo space for outdoor activities, plus it handles rough terrain and weather better than the average car.

2010 Subaru Forester 2.5X SUV, Silver, 58960 mi, $16,995 http://bit.ly/1qHZ2pF AWD, Compact, 4-spd automatic, MPG = 20/26

EARTHY CAR OF THE WEEK: 2003 Honda Element

2003 Honda Element SUV, Blue, 119447 mi, $5,995 http://bit.ly/1kiBcAs 4WD, 4-spd automatic, MPG = 19/23

The Honda Element is a unique vehicle – it drives like a car, but it had the cargo space of a truck & the look of a SUV.

The unusual side doors make it easy to load and unload cargo, and the floor is made with a material that resists scratches, water, and dirt.

It’s ideal for those who move around a lot or those into outdoor activities, or those with multiple kids.

SPECS / FEATURES
AOL Autos

MSN Autos

VIRTUAL TOUR
AOL Autos

MSN Autos

EXPERT REVIEWS
NewCarTestDrive:

INTRODUCTION:
“The Honda Element is one of those vehicles that elicits that great question: What's that? Some people hate the thought of driving a car that's the center of attention, but others find that's part of the thrill of owning a car that's different from other vehicles on the road.

Honda is known for conservative styling, which is not a bad thing for the majority of people who are only looking for reliable and functional transportation. However, pizzazz and style are important ingredients if you're one of those looking for something different.

Honda has really gone out on a limb with the Element. It is a very different looking vehicle aimed at young male buyers who need a truck to haul their stuff but want the security of an enclosed cargo area and the performance of a car.”

WALKAROUND:
“What the suicide doors offer is great access to the rear of the vehicle from the sides with no B-pillars to get in the way. For safety reasons, the rear side doors cannot be opened unless the front door has already been opened first. Likewise they have to be closed before the front side doors can be closed. Moreover, front-seat occupants have to unbuckle their seatbelts before the rear doors can be opened as the front seatbelts are attached to the front edge of the closed rear doors.”

INTERIOR:
“Versatility is the key word in the design of the Honda Element's interior. Honda spent a lot of time designing features with flexible utility first and foremost in mind.”

“The floor is covered in a urethane-coated material that resists water, dirt and scratches. It is easily cleaned. The seats (on all but the DX) are coated in a waterproof material designed for easy cleaning.”

SUMMARY:
“The Honda Element is an attractive proposition for someone who wants a genuine utility vehicle that behaves like a car. There's no denying the utility of its versatile interior. And, in terms of driving dynamics, cars behave much better than trucks. Although archaic EPA rules say the Element is a truck, it's really a modern station wagon masquerading as a hip looking van. Looks are part of the attraction here. You'll either like the Element or hate it. We found it appeals to people of all ages.”

MSN Autos

USER REVIEWS
via MSN Autos

EARTHY CARS SPOTLIGHT: Affordable Cars

Need a car that’s affordable?

We have several cars priced in the $6995-7995 range.

2005 Dodge Grand Caravan SE Van Passenger, Silver, 87433 mi, $5,995 $6,995 http://bit.ly/1oow3oY 4-spd automatic, MPG = 17/24

2004 Honda Civic LX Sedan, Grey, 137740 mi, $5,995 http://bit.ly/UX239p Compact, 4-spd automatic, MPG = 25/34

2003 Honda Element SUV, Blue, 119447 mi, $5,995 http://bit.ly/1kiBcAs 4WD, 4-spd automatic, MPG = 19/23

2004 Scion xB Hatchback, Black, 103097 mi, $5,995 http://bit.ly/1l7v90f Subcompact, 5-spd manual, MPG = 27/32

2003 Toyota Matrix Standard Hatchback, Blue, 91945 mi, $6,995 http://bit.ly/1qI0jNx Compact, 4-spd automatic, MPG = 25/30

2004 Toyota Prius, Silver, 145492 mi, $6,995 http://bit.ly/1lFLtqY MPG = 48/45

2004 Toyota Prius Sedan, Blue, 131612 mi, $6,995 http://bit.ly/1kiv1fR MPG = 48/45

2007 Toyota Yaris Sedan, Grey, 98982 mi, $6,995 http://bit.ly/1kiQLrT Subcompact, 4-spd automatic, MPG = 29/35