Best Compact Cars of 2026 and 2027
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.
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- #12026 Honda Civic Hybrid
- #22026 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid
- #32026 Kia K4
- #42026 Hyundai Elantra
- #52026 Volkswagen Jetta
1st
Redesigned in 2022
Read full review about2026 Honda Civic Hybrid
- Edmunds Rating
- 7.9/10
- MSRP
- $24,695 - $32,395
- Combined MPG
- 31 - 49
2nd
Redesigned in 2024
- Edmunds Rating
- 7.6/10
About Hyundai Elantra HybridRead Summary Close Summary
Assuming you don't need the full-fat performance N model, the Elantra Hybrid is the Elantra to get. It's smooth, exceptionally fuel-efficient and feature-packed. A somewhat downmarket interior is the only real knock against it, but the Elantra Hybrid offers excellent value for the money and really makes a case for itself among other hybrid sedans and compact SUVs.
- MSRP
- $25,450 - $29,800
- Combined MPG
- 50 - 54
3rd
Introduced in 2025
- Edmunds Rating
- 7.5/10
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
- $22,290 - $28,890
- Combined MPG
- 28 - 33
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?
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- #12026 Honda Civic Type R
- #22026 Volkswagen Golf R
- #32026 Volkswagen Golf GTI
- #42025 Toyota GR Corolla
- #52026 MINI Cooper
1st
Redesigned in 2022
Read full review about2026 Honda Civic Type R
- Edmunds Rating
- 7.5/10
- MSRP
- $47,395
- Combined MPG
- 24
2nd
Redesigned in 2022
- Edmunds Rating
- 7.3/10
About Volkswagen Golf RRead Summary Close Summary
The Volkswagen Golf R offers swift acceleration, sporty handling and SUV-like cargo space. We also like the Golf R's premium interior design. Some rival hot hatches are more fun to drive, but the Golf R is more well-rounded.
- MSRP
- $49,455
- Combined MPG
- 25
3rd
Redesigned in 2022
- Edmunds Rating
- 7.2/10
About Volkswagen Golf GTIRead Summary Close Summary
The refreshed Volkswagen Golf GTI gets the interior that we wish this generation had all along. With a better-performing touchscreen and less obstructive controls, the GTI's user experience is a strong improvement. Finally, you can focus more on driving and enjoying this great hot hatch.
- MSRP
- $34,590 - $42,480
- 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.
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- #12025 Audi A4 allroad
- #22025 Volvo V60
- #32026 Volvo V60 Cross Country
1st
Redesigned in 2017
Read full review about2025 Audi A4 allroad
- Edmunds Rating
- 7.3/10
- MSRP
- $47,600 - $55,800
- Combined MPG
- 26
2nd
Redesigned in 2019
- Edmunds Rating
- 6.2/10
About Volvo V60Read Summary Close Summary
The V60 Polestar Engineered follows Volvo's tradition of building impeccably styled and swift wagons. We like its strong power and the eco-friendly nature of a plug-in hybrid powertrain. But minimal interior storage and a stiff ride limit the V60's appeal compared to that of a sport-tuned SUV.
- MSRP
- $71,250
- Combined MPG
- 31
3rd
Redesigned in 2020
- Edmunds Rating
- 5.5/10
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
- $52,300 - $57,600
- Combined MPG
- 26
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.
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- #12026 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid
- #22026 Kia Sportage Hybrid
- #32026 Toyota RAV4
- #42026 Hyundai Tucson
- #52026 Kia Sportage
1st
Redesigned in 2022
Read full review about2026 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid
- Edmunds Rating
- 8.8/10
- MSRP
- $32,450 - $42,075
- Combined MPG
- 36 - 38
2nd
Redesigned in 2023
- Edmunds Rating
- 8.7/10
About Kia Sportage HybridRead Summary Close Summary
The Kia Sportage Hybrid delivers on just about every front. The ride quality is excellent, the interior is spacious and the rear hatch opens to a massive cargo area. We have few complaints about this electrified compact crossover.
- MSRP
- $30,490 - $40,590
- Combined MPG
- 35 - 42
3rd
Redesigned in 2026
- Edmunds Rating
- 8.1/10
About Toyota RAV4Read Summary Close Summary
The redesigned, all-hybrid Toyota RAV4 is better than ever, offering excellent fuel economy, helpful tech features and a sizable cargo area. Rivals offer more passenger space and smoother rides, but overall the RAV4 is one of our top picks for a small SUV.
- MSRP
- $31,900 - $43,300
- Combined MPG
- 38 - 43
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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