During the brief time gas spiked to five buck a gallon, the US opened its collective eyes.

      Spending $100 for a full tank was like chewing on tin foil.  I'm not sure we should relax now that gas prices are back to normal.

A few manufacturers have made forays into the "microcar" arena, the most notable of which are Toyota, Smart and Alfa.

I actually dig the Toyota Scion xA. I think with a little bit of work (flared fenders, aerodynamics,turbo) this think could be a proper riot.

But we don't cover Toyotas in european car....so forget it.

That leaves the Smart and the Alfa Mito.

Is it just me of does the Smart look like a Barcalounger wearing a space helmet? Sorry but it looks just plain goofy. I cannot help but stare at people driving them, imagining what would happen if they tangled with a Chevy Suburban.

On the other hand, the Alfa Mito looks the proper stuff. It looks like a fun little car.

My Euro-contacts call the Mito "the little pig" because of its nose.

wonder what they'd call the Smart................A booger?