Best Subcompact Cars of 2024 and 2025

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

Not enough vehicles yet to rank
Edmunds Rating
7.4/10
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
$16,680 - $20,690
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.

1st
Edmunds Rating
8.1/10
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
$40,500 - $49,900
Combined MPG
26 - 28
2nd
Introduced in 2020

Read full review aboutMercedes-Benz GLB-Class

Edmunds Rating
8.1/10
About Mercedes-Benz GLB-ClassRead Summary Close Summary 
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
$45,800 - $60,100
Combined MPG
23 - 28
3rd
Redesigned in 2021

Read full review aboutMercedes-Benz GLA-Class

Edmunds Rating
7.9/10
About Mercedes-Benz GLA-ClassRead Summary Close Summary 
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.
MSRP
$43,000 - $58,050
Combined MPG
24 - 29

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
Edmunds Rating
8.0/10
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.
MSRP
$23,100 - $29,300
Combined MPG
27 - 31
2nd
Introduced in 2020

Read full review aboutMazda CX-30

Edmunds Rating
7.9/10
About Mazda CX-30Read Summary Close Summary 
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.
MSRP
$24,995 - $36,800
Combined MPG
25 - 29
3rd
Introduced in 2020

Read full review aboutBuick Encore GX

Edmunds Rating
7.9/10
About Buick Encore GXRead Summary Close Summary 
The Encore GX is essentially an improved version of the Encore. Advantages to this extra-small SUV include a comfortable ride quality and a classy design. But you do pay a (literal) price for these qualities since the Encore GX is expensive relative to its primary competition.
MSRP
$26,000 - $33,100
Combined MPG
27 - 30
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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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