With the sting of paying $4 for a gallon of gas still fresh in consumers' minds, automakers are readying a new fleet of smaller cars designed to attract U.S. buyers who are willing to eschew sheer size and muscle for improved fuel efficiency. This is particularly true among the "Big Three" domestic automakers - Ford, GM and Chrysler - that are looking to help make up market share lost when truck sales crashed.

"If there ever was a generational point in time for rightsizing, versus America's V8 mentality, this is it," says New York-based auto industry consultant Leo Parente. "Younger buyers will likely make the difference here."

So-called "city cars" traditionally have been big business in Europe and Asia, where higher fuel costs, taxes on larger models and more-congested urban areas make them a necessity. But as buyers elsewhere in the world already know, small cars don't necessarily have to be boring "econoboxes." New models coming to showrooms for the 2011 model year and beyond will catch the eye with standout styling and reward value-conscious drivers with well-finished interiors. Here's a look at some of the latest entries in the growing small-car segment, many of which can be expected to carry base sticker prices around $15,000:

Ford Fiesta

Already popular overseas, the subcompact Fiesta sedan/hatchback makes its way to the U.S. this spring, sporting uniquely cast exterior and interior styling treatments. Its 119-horsepower 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine can register as much as 40 mpg when fitted to the optional six-speed automatic transmission (a five-speed manual is standard). A sophisticated power steering system optimizes the level of assist based on speed and cornering forces, and teams with a European-tuned suspension to deliver precise handling.

Chevrolet Cruze

An all-new compact sedan that first bowed in Europe and Asia, the Cruze will be built in the U.S. beginning this summer. It's a handsomely (albeit conservatively) styled four-door that boasts a relatively spacious, quiet and rich-looking interior. It comes powered with either of two fuel-efficient four-cylinder engines, including a peppy 1.4-liter turbocharged version that's estimated to net 40 mpg on the highway. Ten air bags and stability control will come standard for safety's sake.

Mazda2

After a successful run in Europe, Japan and Australia, the comely Mazda2 subcompact arrives stateside this summer. It carries the brand's trademark "happy face" front-end treatment, with an efficiently designed interior. It will come powered by a 1.5-liter engine that's expected to generate around 110 hp, which should be sufficient to get the petite Mazda2 up to highway speeds.

Fiat 500

Already a favorite in Europe, this subcompact coupe will be sold through Chrysler dealers later this year or in early 2011 and - given that Chrysler is now run by Italy's Fiat Group - will retain its original brand name. The 500 features undeniably cute retro-themed rounded styling. We'll likely see it fitted with a 100-hp 1.4-liter engine that should be good for fuel economy in the mid-30 mpg range.

Ford Focus

Auto enthusiasts have long asked Ford to import the sportier, more refined European version of its compact Focus, and they'll finally get their wish starting early next year. Expect a more dynamic appearance inside and out, a livelier engine and crisp European-flavored handling, all with admirable fuel economy.

However, it remains to be seen whether the genre will become as popular here as it's been abroad, particularly if gas prices remain stable.

"Americans still prefer to drive a larger car or truck," says George Peterson, president of AutoPacific Group, a Tustin, Calif.-based automotive research firm. "Our data shows that Americans want a more fuel-efficient vehicle with no compromise in performance or size."

So we want it all, right?