We all thought it was cute when we saw these little sprites zipping around narrow European streets and parking in the tightest spaces. America, however, still treats small cars as lunchmeat for its SUVs and large sedans.

While gas prices have made smaller, lighter cars more relevant, the tiny Smart (equipped competitively at $14,000, and without a back seat or luggage space) barely gets better combined mileage than the similarly-priced Honda Fit (36 versus 31 miles per gallon).

If that hasn't convinced you, perhaps the fear of crosswinds knocking the steering wheel from your grip will.