When gasoline went for less than spring water GM could effectively cut off the American market from fuel efficient vehicles, sticking us instead with gaudy SUVs and the crude and raucous Chevy Cavalier. But the brave new world of $4.00 a gallon is forcing the biggest of the big three to think smaller and more global.

Ford has already pledged to bring six of its European gas sippers to the U.S. and ultimately integrate its entire lineup by 2013. GM is following suit with its own global effort, promising to offer American car buyers a greater selection of quality econorides. Though a bit pricey, the European-built Saturn Astra is already here. And since the swanky plug-in Chevy Volt is not likely to instantly justify itself in the showrooms, the 2009 model year will be marked by the introduction of the gas-powered Chevy Trax (pictured above). Initially sold abroad, a version of that vehicle will come to the U.S. the following year.

The Korean built micro-car is the result of a consumer choice competition, which followed the debut of its three variants at the 2007 New York Auto Show (above). In addition to satisfying America's growing appetite for small cars, the single, globally-shared platform could cut production costs and pull the auto giant out of its current financial slump.

Pontiac Wave is another contender for the U.S. car market. Already on sale in Canada, the Wave is a glorified Chevy Aveo, offering improved styling and a more refined interior. According to CNN, "there's been no announcement from GM, but the EPA's Fueleconomy.gov Website, where consumers can compare fuel economy ratings, already lists the Pontiac G3 Wave as a 2009 model."