Compact cars, sometimes called small cars, are a popular vehicle class known for fuel efficiency, affordability, and practicality. This guide examines what defines a compact car and provides an overview of the benefits, top recommendations, gas mileage leaders, and latest models to help find the right fit.
What Qualifies as a Compact Car?
Compact cars are defined by their exterior dimensions and interior passenger and cargo space. Key size parameters:
- Length between 165 to 185 inches
- Width around 70 inches
- Wheelbase typically 100 to 110 inches
- Weight around 2,500 to 3,300 lbs
The EPA classifies compacts in their “midsize class” below full-size sedans and SUVs. Compacts seat 4 to 5 passengers comfortably and have trunk space around 13 to 15 cubic feet.
Popular compact body styles include:
- Sedans
- Hatchbacks
- Coupes
- Convertibles
- Crossovers
Affordability, efficiency, reliability, and nimble maneuverability make compact cars appealing for many drivers.
Most Reliable Compact Cars
Compact models with strong reliability ratings include:
Honda Civic
- Pros: Sporty driving dynamics, spacious interior
- Cons: Road noise, lower mpg than competitors
Hyundai Elantra
- Pros: Warranty coverage, impressive tech features
- Cons: Unrefined base engine, subpar cabin materials
Toyota Corolla
- Pros: Proven durability, excellent resale value
- Cons: Dated infotainment and mediocre handling
Subaru Impreza
- Pros: Standard AWD, good safety scores
- Cons: Underpowered base engine, tight rear seat
Mazda3
- Pros: Upscale interior, responsive handling
- Cons: Rough ride quality, cramped back seat
Prioritize test driving recommended reliable models that fit needs and preferences.
Highest Gas Mileage Compact Cars
Compact cars with 35+ MPG fuel economy ratings:
- Toyota Corolla — Up to 35 MPG combined
- Honda Civic — Up to 36 MPG combined
- Hyundai Elantra — Up to 38 MPG combined
- Kia Forte — Up to 36 MPG combined
- Chevrolet Cruze — Up to 35 MPG combined
- Nissan Sentra — Up to 35 MPG combined
Diesel and hybrid versions may offer even higher mileage like the 50+ MPG Corolla Hybrid.
Compare EPA estimates between models to maximize mileage. Real-world results vary.
Compact Cars with AWD
Compact sedans and hatchbacks offering all-wheel drive (AWD) include:
- Subaru Impreza — Standard symmetrical AWD
- Toyota Prius — Available AWD-e system
- Nissan Sentra — Optional intelligent AWD
- Volkswagen Golf — 4Motion AWD optional
- Dodge Dart — Available AWD models 2013–2016
AWD improves traction in rain, snow, or mild off-road use. Rare for compact class outside of Subaru.
Safest Compact Cars
Safety standouts with top crash test scores and standard advanced driver aids:
- Mazda 3–5-star overall rating, standard automated emergency braking
- Subaru Impreza — 5-star overall rating, EyeSight system standard
- Volkswagen Jetta — Top Safety Pick+, available advanced driving assistance
- Kia Forte — Available forward collision warning and lane keep assist
- Toyota Corolla — Standard Toyota Safety Sense package
Review IIHS and NHTSA tests for the newest model year data. Prioritize safety when car shopping.
Compact Car Dimensions Comparison
Car ModelLengthWidthPassenger VolumeTrunk VolumeToyota Corolla182 in70 in89 cu ft13 cu ftHonda Civic182 in71 in97 cu ft15 cu ftHyundai Elantra184 in71 in95 cu ft14 cu ftKia Forte182 in71 in102 cu ft15 cu ftSubaru Impreza175 in70 in94 cu ft12 cu ft
Measure trunk space and seating dimensions when test driving. Passenger volume data comes from the EPA.
New Compact Cars for 2022
Redesigned compact cars include:
- Honda Civic — Fresh styling, improved ride and handling, new tech
- Nissan Sentra — Sportier design, more safety tech
- Volkswagen Jetta — Updated exterior styling
- Kia Forte — Refreshed design, upgraded tech and safety features
- Mitsubishi Mirage — Updated styling on ultra-affordable subcompact
Shop current generation models for the newest designs, tech, and safety upgrades.
Pros of Buying a Compact Car
Benefits of choosing a compact model:
- Efficiency — Smaller vehicles offer better gas mileage
- Easier parking — Compacts fit tight spots in cities
- Lower costs — Cheaper purchase price and insurance
- Ideal commuter size — Nimble handling for traffic
- Latest tech — Newest safety and infotainment often debuts on compacts
- Good starter cars — More confidence-building to drive than larger vehicles
Evaluate your priorities to determine if going compact makes sense.
Cons of Compact Cars to Consider
Drawbacks of compact cars include:
- Less interior room — Tighter quarters, especially in rear seats
- Less cargo space — Limits hauling capacity
- Feebler acceleration — May feel underpowered on highway
- Noisy ride — Can transmit more road noise
- Fewer body style options — Mostly limited to sedans, hatchbacks, coupes
- Increased safety risk — Smaller size equals less protection in crashes
Weigh the trade-offs against your needs for space, capability, and comfort.
FAQs
What are the least expensive compact cars?
The cheapest compact cars are often subcompacts like the Nissan Versa, Mitsubishi Mirage, and Chevy Spark priced under $15,000. But avoid the very cheapest for poor reliability.
Do compact cars have good crash test ratings?
Most score well in crash testing with abundant airbags and structural improvements. But due to small size, they fare worse than larger vehicles on occupant protection.
Are compact cars good for tall drivers?
It depends on the model, but many compact cars works for taller drivers if you prioritize headroom and a telescoping wheel. Test drive candidate vehicles.
Which compact car has the most cargo space?
The Kia Forte sedan offers an expansive 15.3 cubic feet of trunk volume — impressive for the class. The hatchback has even more space.
What are the sportiest compact cars?
The sportiest compacts are the Subaru WRX, Volkswagen GTI, Hyundai Veloster, and Mazda3. All offer turbo engines, agile handling, and performance upgrades.
Key Compact Car Takeaways
- Compact cars offer efficiency and value in a smaller, maneuverable package
- Focus on recommended reliable models like Corolla, Civic, Impreza
- Prioritize safety ratings and advanced driver aids in your selection
- Compare gas mileage between models — most compacts get 30+ MPG
- Consider trade-offs for interior room, power, noise, safety versus larger cars
- Test drive top contenders to assess comfort, visibility, seating, and cargo space
Compact cars present an appealing blend of value, efficiency, and utility for many buyers. Take time to evaluate dimensions, features, driving dynamics, and ownership costs as you find your perfect small car fit.
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