Best Compact Cars of 2025 and 2026
The Edmunds experts test drive compact contenders on our test track and in the real world. Our ratings assess performance, comfort, technology, utility, value and more. How we rank compacts
Best Compact sedans
Thanks to their accessible pricing and fuel-efficient engines, small sedans are among the best-selling vehicles of all time. You can opt for value or splurge on all the bells and whistles.
1st
Redesigned in 2022
Read full review about2025 Honda Civic
- Edmunds Rating
- 8.2/10
- MSRP
- $24,250 - $31,750
- Combined MPG
- 34 - 49
2nd
Introduced in 2025
- Edmunds Rating
- 8.2/10
About Kia K4Read Summary Close Summary
The Kia K4 stands out with its roomy cabin and extensive and helpful technology features. Value is also part of the appeal; the K4 comes with a greater level of standard equipment than the competition. Our only complaint is a pair of laconic powertrains that don't deliver an engaging driving experience.
- MSRP
- $21,990 - $28,090
- Combined MPG
- 33 - 34
3rd
Redesigned in 2019
- Edmunds Rating
- 7.9/10
About Kia ForteRead Summary Close Summary
The Forte is a grown-up small sedan that's a fantastic value for the money with above-average utility. Other highlights include a comfortable, quiet interior and an extensive list of available features. However, it lags well behind top competitors in driving dynamics, ride quality and rear legroom.
- MSRP
- $19,990 - $25,390
- Combined MPG
- 26 - 34
Best Hot hatches
Start with a sensible small hatchback, add significant power and handling upgrades, and throw in extra style for good measure. What's not to like?
1st
Redesigned in 2022
Read full review about2025 Honda Civic Type R
- Edmunds Rating
- 8.6/10
- MSRP
- $45,595
- Combined MPG
- 24
2nd
Redesigned in 2022
- Edmunds Rating
- 8.3/10
About Volkswagen Golf RRead Summary Close Summary
If you're looking for a little more comfort and sophistication than what the typical hot hatch offers, the Golf R could be your answer. Expensive at first glance, the R vindicates its price with well-rounded performance, practicality and mature styling.
- MSRP
- $45,665 - $46,465
- Combined MPG
- 23 - 25
3rd
Redesigned in 2022
- Edmunds Rating
- 8.2/10
About Volkswagen Golf GTIRead Summary Close Summary
The Volkswagen GTI is simply fun to drive all the time, thanks to a stout engine and sharp handling. It's comfortable and offers plenty of cargo space too. It's a winning formula that's truly hard to top as far as hot hatches go.
- MSRP
- $31,965 - $40,825
- Combined MPG
- 27
Best Compact wagons
Small wagons are small cars with big versatility. You can generally expect all-wheel drive and SUV-grade interior space in a more maneuverable wrapper.
Not enough vehicles yet to rank
Redesigned in 2017
Read full review about2025 Audi A4 allroad
- Edmunds Rating
- 8.0/10
- MSRP
- $47,600 - $55,800
- Combined MPG
- 26
Redesigned in 2020
- Edmunds Rating
- 7.9/10
About Volvo V60 Cross CountryRead Summary Close Summary
If Volvo's compact V60 wagon interests you but you need a bit more capability, check out the Volvo V60 Cross Country. It has more ground clearance and added body protection, while the V60's stylish interior and comfortable seats carry right over to this application.
- MSRP
- $50,300 - $55,400
- Combined MPG
- 27
Best Compact crossovers
Small SUVs are popular thanks to virtues like reasonable pricing, excellent versatility and a just-right size. They've supplanted midsize sedans as the sensible choice for many families.
1st
Introduced in 2023
Read full review about2025 Mazda CX-50
- Edmunds Rating
- 8.1/10
- MSRP
- $30,300 - $43,300
- Combined MPG
- 25 - 38
2nd
Redesigned in 2023
- Edmunds Rating
- 8.1/10
About Honda CR-VRead Summary Close Summary
There's a reason many consider the Honda CR-V the benchmark small SUV for families. Its latest version pulls off this feat yet again with a smooth ride, helpful tech features and excellent storage space. Still, competitors have improved significantly. The CR-V is a good choice but no longer the clear leader.
- MSRP
- $30,100 - $41,100
- Combined MPG
- 28 - 40
3rd
Redesigned in 2017
- Edmunds Rating
- 8.1/10
About Mazda CX-5Read Summary Close Summary
The Mazda CX-5 has interior quality and driving dynamics to challenge some luxury vehicles. Cargo space behind the second row isn't class-leading, but the Mazda's strengths still make it a top pick.
- MSRP
- $28,570 - $40,600
- Combined MPG
- 24 - 28
Selected 0 vehicles for comparison
FAQ
What's the best compact car to buy?
Buyers in the market for a compact sedan have quite an array of choices, from basic transportation to mini-luxury cars. Out of all the available choices, we think the Honda Civic provides the best combination of economy, practicality and refinement at an affordable price point. The Civic is roomy and comfortable, and it comes well equipped with many modern conveniences and advanced driver aids. To further broaden its appeal, the Civic also comes in three body styles: coupe, sedan and hatchback. With so many choices, it can sometimes be difficult to choose a winner, but the outstanding Honda Civic makes our decision easy. Learn more
What is the best small car for 2019?
Small cars have come a long way in the last 10 years, and we think the 2019 Honda Civic is the best of the recent bunch. With good fuel efficiency and dynamite maneuverability, the Civic excels at what a small car should do. The Civic punches well above its weight with its spacious and comfortable interior packed with modern tech and clever storage options — and it costs much less than larger cars offering fewer standard features. The Civic is also a lot of fun to drive even if you don't choose the sporty Si or aggressive Type R trim level. We think it sets the benchmark for small cars. Learn more
What is the most reliable used compact car?
We don't track reliability data on Edmunds, but in general, we recommend looking into owners' forums to see what kind of issues they are experiencing. If you're buying from the prior owner, ask for maintenance records to see what repairs have been performed. Learn more
What is the best small used car to buy?
The best small car for you will depend on your needs, your budget and, of course, local inventory. If you need a bit more storage, we'd suggest looking at a hatchback such as the Honda Fit, Hyundai Elantra GT or Volkswagen Golf. The Honda Civic can also be had as a hatchback, but you might have more luck finding the sedan version, which should be cross-shopped alongside the Kia Forte, Mazda 3 and Toyota Corolla. If you live in a place that gets a decent amount of inclement weather every year, keep your eyes peeled for something all-wheel drive such as a Subaru Impreza or its slightly higher-riding sibling, the Crosstrek. Learn more