Tall wagons: four vehicles try to balance space, utility, and fuel economy.

More consumers are shedding their large SUVs and looking elsewhere for the space and utility to which they've become accustomed. The four vehicles in this test, which blend the characteristics of small sport-utilities and mini-vans, can provide a roomy cabin and cargo space while getting decent gas mileage.

Microvans help fill this void in Japan and Europe.The vehicles have a higher seating position, a taller roofline, and more interior room than the small sedans on which they are based. But the microvan category is almost nonexistent in the U.S.

The only of these microvans currently on sale here is the 2006 Mazda5, which is based on the excellent Mazda3 platform. It is styled like a minivan down to the sliding rear doors, but it is smaller than conventional vans. It seats six, more than small SUVs but less than conventional three-row minivans. Interior space is tighter than in larger minivans, but it is still versatile.

Its compact size and well-tuned suspension make the Mazda5 agile and maneuverable. At around $23,000 (which includes the optional navigation system) it's affordable. The engine is refined and smooth, but it doesn't have much power to spare. It returned 23 mpg overall. Reliability remains to be seen.

The Pontiac Vibe is a twin to the Toyota Matrix, and both are based on the capable Toyota Corolla. We last tested the Vibe in 2002, and it hasn't changed much since. It is still roomy, comfortable, and economical in its front-wheel-drive format, returning an excellent 27 mpg overall. Cabin access is excellent, and the rear seat is roomy even for tall adults. However, most drivers will find it difficult to find a comfortable seating position because the pedals are too close, and the steering wheel doesn't telescope and is too far away.The engine is noisy when revved. It's very hard to find a Vibe equipped with the optional stability control system. Reliability has been very good.

The nostalgic PT Cruiser was freshened for 2006 and offers some revised option packages and interior changes. Ours came equipped with the midlevel turbocharged engine, which produces 180hp. This version is quicker and more economical than the base engine, returning 20 mpg compared with 18. The Chrysler had a fairly comfortable ride and secure handling but didn't feel particularly agile. It offers good space and easy cabin access, but the wide turning circle is a nuisance when parking. Reliability has been good.

The HHR comes across as Chevrolet's PT Cruiser, but the new Cobalt-based vehicle also looks like Chevy trucks from the 1950s. The low roof, wide roof pillars, and small-window styling take a toll on visibility. Cabin access is good, and the cargo space is useful. However, interior fit and finish is not impressive, and some controls are poorly designed. While the HHR is quick in acceleration tests, the engine is noisy, and the transmission's tall gearing makes the car feel slow. Overall fuel economy was good at 23 mpg. Reliability remains to be seen.