I don't really feel any auto companies will be able to make a small car that appeals to someone who tends to prefer larger cars or trucks. If you're used to and prefer a certain size vehicle, I don't think it matters what it looks like, a small car just won't ever be that appealing. That is why I feel it is good companies like Ford invest in technologies such as Eco-Boost. (Or the similar tech that Chevy is working on) An Eco-boost F150 will never have the grunt of a V8, nor the economy of a Focus, but it's a great way to find that middle ground for car buyers who don't want to settle on something they just plain aren't comfortable in. My mom is a great example. She had the V6 Escape, and was looking for something more gas-friendly when it came time to replace it. She got a Mini, and absolutely hated how tiny it was. She just couldn't get used to it. Her middle-ground was the 4 cylinder Escape. It's a car that gets decent enough mileage, but still gets her up off the ground enough that she doesn't feel like she's about to get run over.
I like the fact that thought is going into all areas of the market. For those who are comfortable with smaller cars, we're getting more upscale versions so you don't have to settle with an entry-level trim package. (Like the Mini, upcoming Fiat, Fiesta, Fit, etc...) For those who are more comfortable in bigger cars, many of the manufacturers are figuring out ways to make them more gas/environmentally friendly. (Like the Escape 4cylinder, EcoBoost technology, and more gas-friendly V8's like those in the G8.) 20 years ago 25mpg in a truck was a pipe dream. Hell, my 93 s-10 had a v6, and barely got 20.
Moral of the story is that Boosted may never need be forced to "settle" for a compact or sub-compact to get decent mileage. I think that's nifty...and sorry for the somewhat thread-jack.
PS: The Fiat 500, in my opinion, is t3h h4wtn33s.
