"The only one so far is the Focus, and that isn't very profitable, " says Burnham Securities analyst David Healy of Ford's popular small sedan.

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The Ion small sedan and the Vue small crossover will be replaced (not a moment too soon) late next year, and then Saturn will get at least one other small car.

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Along with products such as a new small sedan that hit the evolving expectations in the premium segment, Farley said, Lincoln will bring an enhanced experience in its dealerships something that most other luxury marques already have been moving toward.

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The Cruze is the most competitive compact Chevy GM has fielded in decades, last year outselling the Focus and the Honda Civic, once the king of the small-sedan segment.

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It has won a lot of market share in the past couple of years, thanks to its bestselling Accord sedan and its economical small cars.

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Audi says the A7 can make the leap to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds, which is impressive for what is a relatively small engine in such a large sedan.

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It has also benefited from new products, like the GLK, a small SUV, and a new generation E-class sedan.

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And for those who prefer a more conventional ride, small cars like the Honda Fit hatchback and Volkswagen Jetta sedan boast what are among the roomiest interiors in their respective classes.

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Chrysler has a handful of smaller-volume hopefuls, like a redesigned Chrysler Sebring sedan, a new Chrysler Aspen SUV, a small SUV for Dodge called the Nitro and a Jeep crossover called the Patriot.

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