Best Small Sedans of 2026 and 2027

The Edmunds experts test drive small sedan contenders on our test track and in the real world. Our ratings assess performance, comfort, technology, utility, value and more. How we rank small sedans

Best X-Small sedans

Diminutive in stature and light on creature comforts, extra-small sedans are the least expensive vehicles on the market. Even so, some boast features that used to be unheard of in this class.

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  1. •2025 Nissan Versa
Not enough vehicles yet to rank
2025 Nissan Versa
Edmunds Rating
6.2/10
The Nissan Versa is a well-built small sedan, with plenty of space inside and enough standard technology and safety features to easily justify its price. Slow acceleration is a bummer, but overall it's a smart pick for an affordable small sedan.
MSRP
$17,390 - $21,390
Combined MPG
30 - 35

Best Small 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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  1. #12026 Honda Civic Hybrid
  2. #22026 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid
  3. #32026 Kia K4
  4. #42026 Honda Civic
  5. #52026 Hyundai Elantra
1st
2026 Honda Civic Hybrid
Edmunds Rating
7.9/10
The Honda Civic boasts praiseworthy performance, high fuel economy, excellent passenger space and a refined design. There are a few minor drawbacks, such as elevated road noise on the highway, but overall the Civic is a great pick for a small sedan.
MSRP
$29,395 - $33,595
Combined MPG
48 - 49
2nd
2026 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid
Edmunds Rating
7.6/10
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
$25,650 - $30,000
Combined MPG
50 - 54
3rd
2026 Kia K4
Edmunds Rating
7.5/10
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
4th
2026 Honda Civic
Edmunds Rating
6.9/10
The Honda Civic Sport is an affordable sedan that's spacious, fun to drive, and built to last. While it's the slowest in its class, it makes up for it by being lighter, one of the most efficient, and supremely comfortable. Its button-filled interior is nice to look at and even better to use.
MSRP
$24,695 - $47,395
Combined MPG
24 - 49
5th
2026 Hyundai Elantra
Edmunds Rating
6.8/10
The Elantra stands out with its high fuel economy, impressive technology and safety features, and roomy cabin. It's also comfortable and strong on value. The base engine is lackluster but otherwise this is a great pick for a small sedan.
MSRP
$22,825 - $29,600
Combined MPG
31 - 35
6th
2026 Volkswagen Jetta
Edmunds Rating
6.6/10
The Volkswagen Jetta is a stylish and satisfying sedan to drive. It's also spacious and fuel-efficient. But it suffers from a somewhat outdated infotainment system, lackluster interior quality, and overall value for your money.
MSRP
$23,995 - $29,995
Combined MPG
33 - 34
7th
2026 Toyota Corolla Hybrid
Edmunds Rating
6.2/10
The Corolla Hybrid is a comfortable small hybrid sedan whose biggest appeal lies in its low cost of entry, available all-wheel drive and relatively good fuel efficiency. But the loud engine, so-so tech implementation, and lack of storage and passenger space compared to other hybrid cars hold it back in this class.
MSRP
$24,975 - $29,340
Combined MPG
44 - 50
8th
2026 Nissan Sentra
Edmunds Rating
6.2/10
The Nissan Sentra is a solid and much-needed improvement for the brand's entry-level sedan. It's stylish and full of modern conveniences. But its underpowered engine and the lack of a hybrid option hold it back in a competitive class.
MSRP
$22,600 - $27,990
Combined MPG
32 - 33
9th
2026 Toyota Corolla
Edmunds Rating
6.0/10
The Toyota Corolla offers simple and practical transportation — nothing more, nothing less. It isn't that the Corolla is especially weak in any area; it's that competitors have passed it by being more fun to drive, offering better technology or, in some cases, both.
MSRP
$23,125 - $28,840
Combined MPG
34 - 35
10th
2026 Mazda 3
Edmunds Rating
5.9/10
The Mazda 3 sedan gives its driver a lot of style, refinement, and comfort. Opt for the turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive and you get impressive speed and all-weather traction, too. A cramped back seat, frustrating tech, and elevated price tag compared to most rivals could turn buyers away.
MSRP
$24,650 - $36,940
Combined MPG
27 - 30

Best X-Small luxury sedans

Even though they're the most affordable luxury cars, extra-small luxury sedans offer many of the same amenities as their larger siblings, though evidence of cost-cutting can be found.

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  1. •2026 Audi A3
  2. •2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA
Not enough vehicles yet to rank
2026 Audi A3
Edmunds Rating
6.9/10
Among entry-level luxury cars, the Audi A3 stands out for its well-rounded nature. It rides and steers with composure, accelerates briskly, has an upscale cabin and can be fitted with many premium features.
MSRP
$40,100 - $43,000
Combined MPG
28
2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA
Edmunds Rating
6.2/10
There's a lot to like about the Mercedes-Benz CLA. It drives as sharp as it looks and it comes with plenty of features to keep you interested. However, even at its base price, it's considerably more expensive than its direct competitors, and adding options causes that price to skyrocket. We like the CLA, but not for the price
MSRP
$42,750 - $67,550
Combined MPG
23 - 30

Best Small luxury sedans

Small luxury sedans have evolved to provide usable backseat space and a full roster of features while retaining a sporty driving character. For many shoppers, this will be the sweet spot.

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  1. #12026 BMW 3 Series
  2. #22026 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
  3. #32027 BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe
  4. #42026 Acura Integra
  5. #52026 Genesis G70
1st
2026 BMW 3 Series
Edmunds Rating
7.7/10
The BMW 3 Series is powerful and boldly designed, but it misses its mark in a few areas. Other players have made larger strides in regards to technology. Unfortunately, "benchmark" is no longer one of the descriptors that come to mind.
MSRP
$48,000 - $64,300
Combined MPG
29 - 31
2nd
2026 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
Edmunds Rating
7.1/10
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class offers high-class interior details, a helpful technology interface and pleasing performance. It's an easy and smart pick for a small luxury sedan.
MSRP
$49,650 - $88,000
Combined MPG
20 - 29
3rd
2027 BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe
Edmunds Rating
6.5/10
The BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe's looks may not be for everyone, but its build quality, comfortable ride, and enjoyable driving dynamics are hard to fault. The base engine is a little lackluster, but we wouldn't be surprised if some buyers chose this version over the stalwart 3 Series.
MSRP
$51,200 - $67,100
Combined MPG
27 - 30
4th
2026 Acura Integra
Edmunds Rating
6.4/10
The reborn Integra is roomy and gets high fuel economy. But it's less refined than its direct rivals and too similar to the related Honda Civic Si, which retails for thousands less. Overall it's hard to find much about this Acura that distinguishes it from the pack.
MSRP
$33,400 - $53,900
Combined MPG
24 - 32
5th
2026 Genesis G70
Edmunds Rating
6.0/10
The Genesis G70 has matured into one of the more elegant-looking small luxury sedans. It delivers excellent value, a comfortable interior, and a good set of standard advanced driver aids. However, a tight back seat, a tiny trunk and subpar fuel economy keep the G70 from attaining true greatness.
MSRP
$43,450 - $58,900
Combined MPG
19 - 24
6th
2026 Alfa Romeo Giulia
Edmunds Rating
6.0/10
With a focus on flair and performance, the Alfa Romeo Giulia will appeal to those willing to look past the more familiar offerings in this class. It's a joy on the open road, engaging the driver like few other sedans can.
MSRP
$44,995 - $46,995
Combined MPG
26 - 27
7th
2026 Lexus IS
Edmunds Rating
5.7/10
The Lexus IS falls short of rivals when it comes to interior space and technology refinement. Still, ample comfort and lots of standard features help keep the IS a viable pick for a small luxury sedan.
MSRP
$45,500 - $49,950
Combined MPG
22
8th
2026 Cadillac CT4
Edmunds Rating
5.0/10
The Cadillac CT4 is the brand's small luxury sedan. With classic rear-wheel-drive architecture, optional all-wheel drive and competitive turbocharged power, the CT4 has strong sport sedan fundamentals.
MSRP
$36,000 - $63,600
Combined MPG
18 - 26

Best Small performance sedans

If you're looking for luxury and maneuverability along with sizzling speed, small performance sedans are where it's at. These sporty variants are among the most capable sedans in the world.

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  1. #12026 BMW M340i
  2. #22026 Audi RS 3
  3. #32026 Acura Integra Type S
  4. #42026 Mercedes-Benz AMG C 43
  5. #52026 Audi S3
1st
2026 BMW M340i
Edmunds Rating
7.4/10
The BMW M340i is a compelling bridge between the entry-level 3 Series and the mighty M3. Upgraded performance hardware and nearly 400 horsepower make it sharper and more engaging than the base model but not nearly as bank-bruising as its enthusiasts-only counterpart.
MSRP
$62,300
Combined MPG
29
2nd
2026 Audi RS 3
Edmunds Rating
7.0/10
The Audi RS 3's all-wheel-drive system means traction is ever present, even in slippery conditions, and the vibrant turbocharged five-cylinder engine means you're never wanting for power or drama. But just as it can barnstorm a back road, it can also be a civilized counterpart on the day-to-day.
MSRP
$66,100
Combined MPG
23
3rd
2026 Acura Integra Type S
Edmunds Rating
6.9/10
The Acura Integra Type S is the shot of adrenaline that the brand has needed for so long. It's a gorgeous hot hatch that strikes a wonderful balance between sport compact and entry-level luxury. If you're looking for all the thrills and precise driving of a Honda Civic Type R but crave something a bit more refined, then the Integra Type S is the perfect answer.
MSRP
$53,900
Combined MPG
24
4th
2026 Mercedes-Benz AMG C 43
Edmunds Rating
6.9/10
The Mercedes-Benz AMG C 43 is quick and handles well, with performance that's generally on par with its German rivals. There's lots of available in-car tech and driver aids too. But there's nothing about this car that makes it a standout sport sedan.
MSRP
$64,150
Combined MPG
22
5th
2026 Audi S3
Edmunds Rating
6.6/10
The Audi S3 is one of the smallest sedans you can buy, yet it doesn't feel like Audi gave it any less care than its other models. It's comfortable yet also fun to drive thanks to a strong yet fuel-efficient engine and sporty handling.
MSRP
$52,000
Combined MPG
26
6th
2027 BMW M3
Edmunds Rating
6.6/10
The BMW M3 is a sport sedan that comes so close to being perfect. The all-wheel-drive system gives you confidence in poor weather, plus heaps of grip for explosive acceleration. Yet the highs are so high that the car's numb steering and unpleasant exhaust note really stick out.
MSRP
$79,300 - $88,600
Combined MPG
18 - 19
7th
2026 Audi S5
Edmunds Rating
6.5/10
The Audi S5 is a good-looking sport sedan with a practical cargo area and a comfortable, modern interior. As quick as it may be, it lacks some personality and doesn't come with as many standard driver aids as we think it should for the price.
MSRP
$63,300 - $70,900
Combined MPG
23
8th
2026 Mercedes-Benz AMG C 63 S E PERFORMANCE
Edmunds Rating
6.2/10
You'd be right to expect amazing things from the Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E Performance. After all, it's 671 hp from a small sedan. But the car's plug-in hybrid powertrain adds a bunch of weight, and that negatively affects handling and road comfort. If you're searching for the 'ultimate driving' sedan, you should probably shop at a different German dealership.
MSRP
$88,000
Combined MPG
20
9th
2026 Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing
Edmunds Rating
5.8/10
The Cadillac CT4 V Blackwing is a high-performance variant of the standard CT4 sedan. It comes with an impressive array of standard features including an adaptive suspension and a wonderfully responsive engine. Aside from a cramped back seat and only so-so driver safety aids, the CT4-V Blackwing delivers in all the right places.
MSRP
$63,600
Combined MPG
18
10th
2026 Cadillac CT4-V
Edmunds Rating
5.4/10
The Cadillac CT4-V significantly turns up the performance of the standard CT4. It's quick and relatively nimble if a little course-sounding and light on feedback. But its main faults lie in its subpar interior materials and generally less luxurious feel compared to its European rivals.
MSRP
$50,600
Combined MPG
23
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2026 Honda Accord Hybrid
2026 Honda Accord Hybrid
Sophisticated midsized sedan with smooth performance and advanced tech.
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