Best Subcompact Cars of 2026 and 2027Best Subcompact Cars of 2026 and 2027

This page categorizes subcompacts by size and ranks them by their Edmunds Ratings — a detailed 10-point scoring system that reflects our testing team's comprehensive evaluation of each vehicle. This single score is backed by an in-depth analysis across seven key categories, including driving performance, comfort, cargo space, value, fuel efficiency and more. For a deeper dive into how each vehicle performs in these areas, you can explore individual vehicle pages for detailed category breakdowns.

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Our process is rigorous: We spend hundreds of miles behind the wheel, living with each vehicle in real-world conditions to understand how well it meets daily needs. Unlike most publications, we also conduct instrumented testing at our dedicated test track, providing empirical data to support every review. What you'll find here is our honest, unbiased and fully independent evaluation of each subcompact and how it stacks up against the competition. Read more about how we test subcompacts.

This page categorizes subcompacts by size and ranks them by their Edmunds Ratings — a detailed 10-point scoring system that reflects our testing team's comprehensive evaluation of each vehicle. This single score is backed by an in-depth analysis across seven key categories, including driving performance, comfort, cargo space, value, fuel efficiency and more. For a deeper dive into how each vehicle performs in these areas, you can explore individual vehicle pages for detailed category breakdowns.

Read MoreRead Less

Our process is rigorous: We spend hundreds of miles behind the wheel, living with each vehicle in real-world conditions to understand how well it meets daily needs. Unlike most publications, we also conduct instrumented testing at our dedicated test track, providing empirical data to support every review. What you'll find here is our honest, unbiased and fully independent evaluation of each subcompact and how it stacks up against the competition. Read more about how we test subcompacts.

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.

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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 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.

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  1. #12026 Mercedes-Benz GLB
  2. #22026 BMW X1
  3. #32026 BMW X2
  4. #42025 Audi Q3
  5. #52026 Mercedes-Benz GLA
1st
2026 Mercedes-Benz GLB
Edmunds Rating
7.8/10
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.
MSRP
$43,800 - $60,600
Combined MPG
23 - 28
2nd
2026 BMW X1
Redesigned in 2023

2026 BMW X1

Edmunds Rating
7.4/10
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The X1 may be BMW's lowest-priced SUV, but it doesn't skimp on the things that make crossovers so desirable. You can expect ample passenger and cargo space, sporty driving characteristics and a premium cabin, all of which help make the X1 a great pick.
MSRP
$43,200 - $52,400
Combined MPG
27 - 28
3rd
2026 BMW X2
Redesigned in 2024

2026 BMW X2

Edmunds Rating
6.9/10
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The BMW X2 is the more stylish and sporty — but notably less practical — sibling of the X1 SUV. It gives up cargo space and rear headroom, but comes in a sleeker shape and offers a powerful optional engine.
MSRP
$44,700 - $53,900
Combined MPG
26 - 28

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.

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  1. #12026 Hyundai Kona
  2. #22027 Kia Seltos
  3. #32026 Kia Niro Hybrid
  4. #42026 Volkswagen Taos
  5. #52026 Chevrolet Trax
1st
2026 Hyundai Kona
Edmunds Rating
7.9/10
The Hyundai Kona is an appealing pick if you want a small crossover SUV with ample passenger space. It also comes well stocked with features at an agreeable price.
MSRP
$25,500 - $34,150
Combined MPG
26 - 31
2nd
2027 Kia Seltos
Redesigned in 2027

2027 Kia Seltos

Edmunds Rating
7.8/10
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The Kia Seltos is an excellent little SUV, with an appealing base price, lots of standard features, and a surprisingly roomy cabin given the small footprint. An underpowered base engine makes the Seltos feel particularly slow, but if you don't mind the lack of speed, you should otherwise be quite happy with the Seltos.
MSRP
$24,990 - $32,790
Combined MPG
26 - 30
3rd
2026 Kia Niro Hybrid
Redesigned in 2023

2026 Kia Niro Hybrid

Edmunds Rating
7.6/10
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The Kia Niro is a great all-around option for anyone wanting an efficient, compact crossover. Acceleration is lackluster but the Niro gains back points with its helpful driving aids, smooth ride quality and value for the money.
MSRP
$27,390 - $35,790
Combined MPG
49 - 53
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2026 Honda Accord Hybrid
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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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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

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