Best Subcompact Cars of 2023 and 2024
subcompact
The Edmunds experts test subcompact contenders on our test track and in the real world. Our ratings assess performance, comfort, technology, utility, value and more. How we rank
Best Subcompact 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.
Not enough vehicles yet to rank
Redesigned in 2020
Nissan Versa
- Edmunds Rating
- 7.4/10
- MSRP
- $15,980 - $19,970
- Combined MPG
- 30 - 35
Redesigned in 2018
- Edmunds Rating
- 7.1/10
About Kia Rio
Kia should have given the Rio a new name to distance this car from the penalty-box Rios of yesteryear. Today's Rio is a grown-up small car with a relatively pleasant interior. Read full review
- MSRP
- $16,750 - $17,390
- Combined MPG
- 36
Best Subcompact hatchbacks
If you want a tidy, fuel-efficient car that's easy to park and has room for a few friends and all your stuff, it's hard to beat a little hatchback.
Not enough vehicles yet to rank
Redesigned in 2017
MINI Hardtop 2 Door
- Edmunds Rating
- 7.4/10
- MSRP
- $27,400 - $35,900
- Combined MPG
- 29 - 32
Redesigned in 2018
- Edmunds Rating
- 7.1/10
About Kia Rio
Kia should have given the Rio a new name to distance this car from the penalty-box Rios of yesteryear. Today's Rio is a grown-up small car with a relatively pleasant interior. Read full review
- MSRP
- $17,690
- Combined MPG
- 36
Best Subcompact luxury crossovers
Extra-small luxury SUVs offer a prestigious badge at an affordable price. They don't always deliver luxury-grade comfort and performance, but a few gems stand out.
1st
Redesigned in 2023
BMW X1
- Edmunds Rating
- 8.1/10
- MSRP
- $40,500 - $49,900
- Combined MPG
- 26
2nd
Introduced in 2020
- Edmunds Rating
- 8.1/10
About Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class
The GLB's boxy shape gives it a distinctively rugged look while providing ample passenger and cargo space for its size. Throw in some of the best technology available on the market, and you've got one outstanding luxury SUV. Read full review
- MSRP
- $39,800 - $51,500
- Combined MPG
- 23 - 27
3rd
Redesigned in 2021
- Edmunds Rating
- 7.9/10
About Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class
This second-generation Mercedes-Benz GLA is a huge improvement over its rather compromised predecessor. It's comfortable and suitably refined for an entry-level luxury SUV. Read full review
Best Subcompact crossovers
Extra-small SUVs are the smallest and least expensive crossovers you can buy. Cost-cutting is sometimes apparent, but top-trim versions can feel surprisingly upscale.
1st
Introduced in 2022
Volkswagen Taos
- Edmunds Rating
- 8.1/10
- MSRP
- $24,155 - $34,535
- Combined MPG
- 28 - 31
2nd
Introduced in 2021
- Edmunds Rating
- 8.0/10
About Chevrolet Trailblazer
Chevy's done a great job with the latest Trailblazer. It isn't the most efficient or the best-performing vehicle in the class, but it is exceedingly competent at nearly everything it does. In the increasingly competitive class of extra-small SUVs, the Trailblazer is a half-step ahead. Read full review
- MSRP
- $22,100 - $27,700
- Combined MPG
- 28 - 31
3rd
Introduced in 2020
- Edmunds Rating
- 7.9/10
About Mazda CX-30
The Mazda CX-30 is sporty and sophisticated and one of our top picks for an extra-small SUV. It has striking style, is comfortable on the road, and offers plenty of standard features for its price. Read full review
- MSRP
- $22,950 - $35,400
- Combined MPG
- 25 - 29
FAQ
What is the highest-rated subcompact car?
Edmunds' highest-rated subcompact car is the Toyota Yaris. It's actually a rebadged Mazda 2, meaning it's surprisingly entertaining to drive and offers an attractive and upscale interior. Just because a car is small and affordable doesn't mean it has to be cheap and boring. The late-model Hyundai Accent and Nissan Versa rounded out the top three, respectively. Learn more
What is the best used subcompact car?
Choosing a used car depends largely on your budget, but there are a number of cars that are well worth a look. If you need cargo space, we really like the Honda Fit hatchback and its cavernous interior. There's also the Toyota Yaris hatchback, which has all the same pros as the sedan plus additional cargo room. The Mini Cooper is fun and sporty, but it tends to be more expensive and most are somewhat less practical two-door models. Learn more
Are subcompact cars worth it?
Absolutely, especially if you're looking for something affordable and fuel-efficient. Subcompact cars today aren't the bare bones models that automakers used to sell. Many of them come with a wide array of features and driver aids, so you're getting a lot of value in a compact package. Learn more
What is the best small car for 2019?
We think the Honda Civic has been the best small car on sale for the past few years. The Civic is spacious inside despite its small footprint, and it packs a seemingly endless amount of storage. There's even a hatchback version if you want more cargo room. It's fun to drive, too, without having a punishing ride or poor fuel economy. The Kia Forte and Mazda 3 are others to consider if the Honda isn't to your liking. Learn more