Sprightly performance mixes with thrifty gas mileage from the ready-to-rev, longitudinal 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine. The 4-speed manual transmission has a tall overdrive top gear, which keeps the engine well below its 3250-rpm torque peak. That means downshifting to third gear is mandatory for adequate passing power. Driving in traffic is easier with a 5-speed, which has closer gear ratios. The shift linkage on both manual transmissions leaves something to be desired, but no automatic transmission ever was offered. Fuel economy is about the same with either transmission: 25 to 30 mpg in urban driving. Power steering also was lacking, and the manual setup demands plenty of extra muscle at parking speeds. Interior noise levels are louder than most, and can really get loud at high speeds. Relatively thin, upright roof pillars aid visibility, which is good to all directions. The ride is firm and nicely controlled. All models handle with agility, but wider tires make the GL more sporty. Head room is minimal all around. The driver's seat is so high that most drivers find their heads close to or against the ceiling, and no seat height adjustment was offered. Leg room is ample up front and adequate in back, even with the front seats moved back. Only two can fit into the back seat, however. The wagon has more head room, but getting into back seats is tough. Sedan trunks are small and shallow, and the full-size spare tire, mounted against one wall, takes up a lot of potential cargo space. The wagon's rear seat folds to increase cargo room to nearly 62 cubic feet.

Value for the Money
Overall, the Fox has a substantial feel--definitely a cut above most budget-priced cars. It's also more fun to drive than most older subcompacts in its price class.