Cars

Compact Car Comparisons

Compact cars, meaning sedans and hatchbacks like the Toyota Prius, are the most economical way to move four or five people around town. They are smaller and lighter than any SUV, which usually shows up as better gas mileage, easier parking and a lower starting MSRP.

Within the class, the biggest differences come from the powertrain and the body style. Hybrid compacts post very high EPA estimates, particularly in city driving, where regenerative braking recovers energy that a gas-only car turns into brake heat. Gas models are simpler and often cheaper up front. A few hybrid compacts now offer all-wheel drive, which is otherwise rare at this size.

A hatchback gives you a larger, more flexible cargo opening than a sedan’s trunk, and folding the rear seats creates a useful load floor for bikes or boxes. A sedan keeps luggage out of sight and can feel a little quieter. Check both the seats-up and seats-folded figures if you carry bulky items.

Rear-seat room is tighter than in larger cars, and ground clearance is low, so steep driveways and potholed roads call for some care. Power output is usually modest; compare horsepower if you merge onto fast highways often or drive in hilly country.

If you are weighing a compact car against a compact SUV, the decision comes down to what you give up and what you gain. The SUV adds height, cargo room and often AWD, while the car usually wins on gas mileage, price and how easily it slips into a tight parking spot.

48 comparisons · 13 products