Just got home from a day of shopping for a new small Hatchback, some observations:
Honda Fit Liked it more then I thought I would. I seem to "Fit" in it. (I'm 6'5") 3000 RPM at 100 KPH, a little buzzy maybe. Kind of like a go cart on steroids, reminds me of my old Integra. Lots of cargo room. Good quality. I found the clutch great (some reviewers hate how light it is)
Hyundai Elantra Touring Like the size, ride. I felt the interior was a bit on the cheap side. It was OK, but the carpet was almost felt with no nap at all. Seats where high (good, I`m old), but it seemed like you where falling forward a bit. No traction controll at any price.(the US cars seem much nicer). Back seat is amazing lots of room my 6`6`son can ride back there.
Kia Soul Did not even drive it. The dealership had 2. Both where locked (why would you lock a car on the floor) Now I`m not really a stickler for fit and finish, but the Soul was terrible. One car had trim falling off the side. The interior on it (a Soul 2U) would not have looked out of place on a Daiwoo. Did not even drive one.
Matrix Good luck! There are no 1.8 sticks left, wait for the 2010. Nice to have 0%, might of well have it for 20 years when you don`t have any cars.
Vibe Seemed to have the same quality as the Matrix or better. Better choice of options. Not as much leg room as the Touring, same ride and wind noise. With the Cash back, nice price. I really liked the shifter the equal of the Fit.
Interesting note: When you factor in Cash Back, or low interest rates, all of these cars are much the same price. (air, stick, power windows, locks, and few other features). Now I will have to see if my bicycle can fit in the back of a couple of these. I think I will try it in the Vibe, Touring, and perhaps the Fit.