Geo's strategy of offering a fairly stripped-down base car is good news forcash-tight buyers who just want something new that they can rely on, but don't want a
mini like the Geo Metro. But for shoppers who might want a little more in their
automobile, it can be misleading. Remember, almost every comfort-convenience feature
is an option. So make sure you price out the Prizm as you'd actually want it equipped
when you drive home.
Intriguingly, you'll find the Prizm a bit lower-priced than a comparable Corolla.
That says a lot about the mindset of buyers in this hotly competitive market segment.
Even though it's essentially the same car, the Corolla typically earns a higher rating
in most customer satisfaction studies, probably because Detroit hasn't been known for
producing great compacts.
So GM has accepted the fact that a little financial coaxing is needed to get
potential customers into the showroom.
The Prizm is overshadowed by two other GM economy cars--the new Chevrolet Cavalier
and the various Saturns, not to mention the Neon and Ford Escort. It shouldn't be. It
may not turn heads, but what really matters is how you feel when you're driving. And
that's where the little Prizm scores big.