While the Ford F-150 remains the best-selling vehicle in America and crossover SUVs continue to dominate in popularity, compact cars especially smaller, fuel-efficient models have seen substantial growth in recent years.
More and more drivers are placing a premium on fuel efficiency, affordability, and long-term reliability. Compact cars deliver strongly in all these areas, making them an excellent choice for individuals who don’t require a great deal of seating or cargo room.
Most compact cars are equipped with four-cylinder engines, which are ideal for navigating city streets, although some may struggle when it comes to maintaining highway speeds.
Compact Cars That Hit 300,000 Miles
If you’re in the market for an economical compact car capable of lasting over 300,000 miles, here are 5 of the best new and used options currently available.
Hyundai Elantra
2024 MSRP: $21,625
A 2022 J.D. Power study placed Hyundai among the top automakers for dependability after three years of ownership, and the South Korean brand has consistently demonstrated its commitment to reliability since the early 2000s.
The likelihood of needing major repairs on an Elantra is low, while the odds of the car surpassing the 300,000-mile milestone are high.
Hyundai injects bold styling and a host of attractive standard features into the compact sedan segment with the Elantra. This generation of the Elantra first appeared in 2021 and underwent a significant refresh for the 2024 model year.
As a result, the 2025 model sees only minor updates. The Elantra lineup is rounded out by two notable variants: the performance-focused Elantra N and the fuel-sipping Elantra Hybrid, offering options for a variety of drivers. Its key rivals include the Mazda3, Kia K4, and Honda Civic.
For 2025, Hyundai reorganizes the SEL trim into two distinct versions: SEL Sport and SEL Convenience. The SEL Convenience model includes the features that were once part of the separate Convenience package, along with a larger infotainment screen.
Most of the Elantra’s significant changes came in the 2024 refresh, which introduced redesigned front and rear fascias, standard rear side airbags, upgraded interior materials, USB-C outlets, a haptic feedback steering wheel, new exterior paint and interior color options, and enhancements to both hardware and software in the Elantra N.
In terms of overall impression, the Hyundai Elantra is an appealing option—especially if the Honda Civic didn’t exist. While the Civic remains the top choice in the compact car class, the Elantra is a strong competitor.
Following its 2024 facelift, the Elantra’s exterior design stands out with sharp edges balanced by a sleek and sophisticated silhouette. Inside, it comes loaded with standard features and offers generous interior space, although the base trims fall short in material quality.
From a driving perspective, the standard Elantra is generally comfortable but lacks excitement. Its base engine delivers slow and uninspiring performance. On the other hand, the Elantra N is a standout, offering thrilling speed and engaging handling, though its adaptive suspension can be quite firm.
The Elantra Hybrid, meanwhile, is among the best sub-$30,000 vehicles for efficiency and value. Despite the Elantra’s strong points, the Civic continues to set the benchmark across its lineup—from the standard sedan and hatchback to the high-performance Type R and newly added Hybrid variant. Still, the Elantra comes close to matching its appeal.
The majority of Elantra trims are powered by a 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine that produces 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque, paired with a CVT automatic transmission driving the front wheels.
In testing conducted by MotorTrend, an Elantra equipped with this engine accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 8.4 seconds. Fuel economy is commendable, ranging between 30-32 mpg city and 39-41 mpg highway depending on trim and configuration.
For those wanting more performance, Hyundai offers two sportier options. The Elantra N-Line provides a boost in power with its 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-four generating 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque.
Power is delivered to the front wheels through a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, as the previously available six-speed manual has been discontinued. Additional performance upgrades include larger front brakes and an independent rear suspension.
The Elantra N-Line is expected to reach 60 mph in approximately 7.0 seconds, while still maintaining solid fuel economy at 28 mpg city and 35 mpg highway.
Drivers looking for maximum performance should turn to the 2025 Elantra N. This model is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four that produces 276 horsepower—or up to 286 horsepower for 10 seconds with the N Grin Boost feature—and 289 lb-ft of torque.
Buyers can choose between an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic or a six-speed manual transmission, both sending power to the front wheels through an electronically controlled limited-slip differential. Beyond its powerful engine, the Elantra N benefits from extensive chassis and software tuning for an aggressive and engaging driving experience.
It’s the quickest Elantra available, clocking a 0-60 mph time of 5.5 seconds with the manual and just 4.7 seconds with the automatic. Fuel economy for the Elantra N drops to 20-21 mpg city and 27-29 mpg highway, a fair trade-off for its thrilling performance.
With these options and refinements, the Hyundai Elantra remains a versatile and appealing choice in the compact car category, delivering a strong mix of practicality, efficiency, and driving fun.
Also Read: 5 Engines That Never Burn Coolant and 5 That Always Need Top-Ups
Toyota Prius
2024 MSRP: $27,950
Renowned for its extensive suite of driver assistance features, the Prius stands out as one of the most reliable hybrids ever built, largely thanks to its battery, which MotorBiscuit describes as “almost invincible.”
Hitting the 200,000-mile mark is easily achievable with this consistently dependable vehicle. Toyota’s once-understated hybrid has transformed into a striking, head-turning vehicle. Previous generations of the Prius were often seen more as functional appliances than sources of driving enjoyment, but Toyota has completely redefined the model with its latest iteration.
The current Prius blends enhanced performance, improved fuel efficiency, and bold styling—attributes that earned it MotorTrend’s 2024 Car of the Year award. Its primary competitors for 2025 include the Kia Niro Hybrid and the Hyundai Elantra Hybrid.
For those seeking a Prius capable of all-electric driving, the plug-in variant—now renamed the Prius Plug-In Hybrid (formerly known as the Prius Prime)—offers that experience.
The redesigned Prius debuted in 2023, bringing with it a bold new exterior design, greater driving engagement, advanced technology, and world-class efficiency.
For the 2025 model year, Toyota adds a new Nightshade Edition package to the Prius lineup. This visually distinctive version includes blacked-out details such as badges, door sills, front door handles, and the shark fin antenna. Other exterior highlights include projector lamps that display the Prius logo and sleek 19-inch black wheels.
Toyota offers this special edition in either Wind Chill Pearl or Midnight Black Metallic. The interior of the Nightshade Edition follows the stealthy theme, featuring a black interior accented with gray stitching. All other Prius trims carry over unchanged from the 2024 model year.
With muscular fenders and sweeping character lines, the latest Prius is a far cry from its visually awkward predecessors. The hybrid finally delivers genuine driving enjoyment, thanks to its increased horsepower, well-balanced chassis, precise steering, and cockpit focused on driver engagement.
At the same time, it continues to deliver the practicality and fuel economy that have long defined the nameplate, now even more efficiently than the previous version. Inside, ambient lighting, an optional 12.3-inch infotainment screen, and well-bolstered front seats elevate the cabin’s premium feel.
The interior remains practical, offering smart storage solutions throughout. However, the new design comes with trade-offs: the sloping roofline reduces available cargo space compared to earlier models and also limits rear-seat headroom and outward visibility.
Additionally, some drivers may struggle to find a seating and steering wheel position that allows for a clear view of the gauge cluster. Like its predecessor, the current Prius could also benefit from additional insulation to better block road and powertrain noise.
Despite these compromises, this generation of the Prius represents a massive leap forward. It is, without a doubt, the most attractive, best-handling, and most efficient Prius Toyota has ever produced—factors that contributed to its recognition as the 2024 MotorTrend Car of the Year.
Under the hood, the standard Prius is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an 83-kW motor generator, which is integrated into the eCVT automatic transmission. The front-wheel-drive (FWD) version produces 194 horsepower, while the all-wheel-drive (AWD) variant gains a rear-mounted motor, bumping output slightly to 196 horsepower.
The Prius Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV) version features a 120-kW motor generator and a 13.6-kWh battery pack, delivering a more robust 220 horsepower. However, this plug-in version is only offered with FWD.
In terms of fuel economy, the Prius remains outstanding across its lineup. The XLE and Limited trims, which ride on larger 19-inch wheels, offer EPA ratings of 52 mpg city and 52 mpg highway in FWD form, and 49/50 mpg city/highway with AWD. The most efficient version is the base LE FWD model on 17-inch wheels, rated at 57 mpg city and 56 mpg highway.
The AWD LE returns a still-impressive 53/54 mpg (2024 model year figures). The PHEV matches this efficiency when operating as a traditional hybrid, but it also adds an electric-only range: up to 44 miles for the SE trim and 39 miles for the XSE and XSE Premium. Total driving range for the plug-in model can reach up to 600 miles.
Altogether, the 2025 Toyota Prius continues to prove that hybrids can be stylish, fun to drive, and remarkably efficient—all without sacrificing practicality.
Mazda Miata
2024 MSRP: $28,985
Consumer Reports highlights the 2010 and 2016 models for their durability and high customer satisfaction, but the latest Miata remains more dependable than most other 2024 models on the market.
Starting at a base price of $29,330, the 2025 Mazda Miata earns an MT Score of 8.9/10, showcasing its impressive blend of fun, performance, and design.
This convertible features a 2.0L SKYACTIV-G® inline 4-cylinder engine, delivering 181 horsepower at 7,000 rpm and 151 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm. Power is routed to the rear wheels (RWD) through a manual transmission, highlighting its enthusiast-focused setup. The car is designed to run on premium unleaded fuel and has a driving range of approximately 345 miles.
The Miata has compact and agile dimensions, with a length of 154.1 inches, a width of 68.3 inches, and a height of 48.6 inches. Inside, it seats two occupants, offering 37.4 inches of front headroom, 43.1 inches of front legroom, and 52.2 inches of front shoulder room. As expected for a roadster, there is no rear seating, and the cargo capacity is a modest 4.6 cubic feet.
Its curb weight is a lightweight 2,366 pounds, contributing to the Miata’s famously nimble handling. The engine uses an inline cylinder configuration with four cylinders, though detailed figures like engine displacement, gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), ground clearance, and payload capacity are not specified.
Other details such as standard MPG and towing capacity have not been disclosed. However, the 2025 Miata continues Mazda’s legacy of offering a responsive and enjoyable driving experience in a sleek, compact package. The Sport Convertible trim serves as the entry point into this dynamic lineup.
Ford Focus
2018 MSRP: $21,435
With Ford shifting its emphasis toward electric vehicles and crossovers, the Focus is set to end global production in 2025.
The model’s final year in the U.S. was 2018, making it a potentially great deal for used car shoppers.
As a dependable and cost-effective daily commuter, the Focus can easily outlast its competitors and, with proper upkeep, reach 300,000 miles.
Built just outside Detroit—at least for a little while longer—the Ford Focus has earned its place in driveways across the United States, embodying American practicality much like apple pie. Throughout its time on the market, the Focus has brought numerous strengths to drivers, including nimble handling and strong fuel efficiency.
However, these strengths come with trade-offs. The Focus is now outmatched by roomier competitors that offer more passenger space, larger cargo areas, and more up-to-date features.
Still, the Focus remains a solid recommendation, and its availability in both sedan and hatchback body styles adds to its wide appeal. For those seeking something sportier or more eco-conscious, Ford has also offered high-performance ST and RS variants, as well as a plug-in electric version, though those are reviewed separately.
It’s important to note that the Ford Focus is no longer in production, with the 2018 model marking its final year.
For 2018, the SE EcoBoost Appearance package has been renamed the SE Appearance package and is now available on all SE models, regardless of engine.
Most other updates for the year involve the removal of equipment from the S, SE, and SEL trims. These reductions include switching from four-way to two-way adjustable headrests, eliminating turn-signal indicators on the exterior mirrors of SE trims, and removing rear-seat floor mats from the S model.
Additionally, all trims lose the auxiliary input jack and ambient lighting for the door-release handles. SE and SEL models no longer feature a driver’s-side seatback map pocket, and the S and SE trims no longer include a single-disc CD player.
Also Read: Top 12 Cars That Run Like New Even After 15 Years With Minimal Maintenance
Mazda3
2024 MSRP: $24,170
While the Mazda6 is often touted as the brand’s most reliable offering, the more budget-friendly Mazda3 holds its own in terms of longevity.
Although it’s priced similarly to other compact cars, the 2023 Mazda 3 sets its sights on more premium competition—and in many ways, it lives up to that ambition. Offered as both a sedan and a hatchback, the Mazda 3 is equally stylish and agile in either body style.
It comes with two four-cylinder engine options, including a lively turbocharged variant. For those seeking enhanced traction, all-wheel drive is available, though opting for it means giving up the well-regarded six-speed manual transmission.
While mainstream rivals like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, and Volkswagen Jetta might seem more practical or have greater name recognition, the Mazda 3 is built for buyers who value a rewarding driving experience and upscale interior materials in a compact package.
For 2023, Mazda has made some key changes to the lineup. The previous base engine, a 2.0-liter four-cylinder, has been dropped. Now, the entry-level Mazda 3 uses a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine—previously offered as an upgrade—which gets a modest bump in power to 191 horsepower.
This engine also gains cylinder deactivation technology to improve efficiency, now delivering EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings of 28 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway. The mid-tier Carbon Edition trim is now available with optional all-wheel drive, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across all trims.
Pricing for the 2023 Mazda 3 starts at $23,715 and tops out at $36,465 depending on trim and options. The model lineup includes the 2.5 S, 2.5 S Select, 2.5 S Preferred, 2.5 S Carbon Edition, 2.5 S Premium, 2.5 Turbo, and the range-topping 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus.
While the hatchback may appeal to some for its distinctive design, its bulky rear styling can limit rearward visibility. The sedan, in contrast, offers better all-around visibility and is the more practical choice for many drivers.
Choosing the Preferred trim adds desirable features such as heated front seats and a power-adjustable driver’s seat with memory functions. Those wanting all-wheel drive can find it in the Carbon Edition or Premium trims, while it comes standard on the Turbo models.
In terms of rankings, the 2023 Mazda 3 holds the #2 spot among compact cars for the year, just behind the Honda Civic. It beats out other strong contenders like the Toyota Prius, Prius PHEV, Volkswagen Jetta, and Hyundai Elantra.
Mazda has clearly built this vehicle for people who want more than just basic transportation—it’s for drivers who seek style, performance, and refinement in a small, everyday car.
Compact Cars That Fall Apart Before 100K
The classic formula for a subcompact car has long been straightforward: offer an affordable entry price, ensure low ownership costs, and include just enough comfort and practicality to retain buyer interest.
While not known for excitement, this no-frills, value-driven approach dominated the segment for decades save for a few exceptions. Fortunately, a new chapter has begun.
Today’s subcompact cars blend style, sophistication, and true driving enjoyment with cost-conscious sensibilities, ushering in a new wave of high-quality options in this category. Click through to see how the current lineup stacks up.
Mitsubishi Mirage G4
What sets the Mirage G4 apart from a used car is its impressive warranty coverage and the reassurance that comes with owning something brand new.
As the sedan counterpart to the Mirage hatchback, the G4 features the same modest 78-hp inline-three engine, which is paired with a five-speed manual transmission; a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) is available for an additional cost.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are optional on the ES trim and come standard on the SE.
The powertrain is backed by a 10-year/100,000-mile warranty, the corrosion warranty lasts seven years/100,000 miles, and roadside assistance is provided for five years with unlimited mileage.
Nissan Versa
The Versa is designed to be the most affordable new car in America, so if a low purchase price is your top priority, this is the vehicle for you but if driving enjoyment matters, you might want to keep looking.
(This overview focuses on the sedan version; the Versa Note is its slightly more appealing hatchback counterpart.) The Versa is outfitted with disappointingly flimsy interior materials.
Its underpowered 109-hp inline-four engine results in sluggish acceleration, though it delivers impressive fuel economy.
Models with the CVT achieve 39 mpg on the highway, while the five-speed manual offers a slightly more engaging driving experience.
Nissan Versa Note
While the Versa Note boasts attractive styling, a spacious rear seat, and the promise of exceptional fuel efficiency, these strengths aren’t enough to make it a compelling choice.
Its underwhelming 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine generates just 109 horsepower and is mated to either a clunky five-speed manual or a CVT that produces a droning driving experience.
We might overlook some of its shortcomings if the Versa Note offered a fun drive, but unfortunately, its performance on the road is lackluster, due to a soft suspension and low-grip tires.
You’re better off considering a rival model or even a used vehicle before investing in this uninspiring Nissan. The 2019 Nissan Versa Note ranks among the most budget-friendly vehicles available in the U.S., though it doesn’t exactly stand out for its appeal. It’s best suited for those primarily focused on low costs and reliable transportation from point A to point B.
These drivers will appreciate its smooth ride and excellent fuel economy. As a bonus, the Versa Note’s hatchback styling is significantly more attractive than the rather uninspired design of the Versa sedan.
However, while the Versa Note is undeniably a good value, several of its rivals offer a similar price with more desirable features and superior build quality.
The Nissan’s underwhelming engine performance and lackluster handling don’t help its case. Still, for value-conscious buyers who care mainly about affordability, the Versa Note is a suitable option. The 2019 model year also marks the final chapter for the Versa Note, as the next-generation Versa will be available only as a sedan.
For 2019, the Versa Note returns largely unchanged. The only notable update is that the SV and SR trims now offer Apple CarPlay and Android Auto—an important addition for buyers looking for better connectivity options.
For buyers set on getting a Versa Note, the base model isn’t the best pick. Spending just \$900 more for the SV trim adds several essential features, such as air conditioning, cruise control, remote keyless entry, and power windows and locks.
The SV trim also includes an adjustable cargo floor for improved practicality. Opting for the SV Special Edition package further enhances the vehicle with fog lights, push-button start, and smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
All Versa Note models come with front-wheel drive and are powered by a 109-hp four-cylinder engine paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT).
While the powertrain is competent for urban driving, it struggles during hard acceleration, with the CVT producing a continuous, unpleasant drone. The overall performance feels sluggish and unrefined, though for simple commuting, the engine is adequate and generally unobtrusive.
Handling is another area where the Versa Note falters. Its weaknesses are most noticeable during high-speed maneuvers, such as taking an exit ramp quickly, where the body leans noticeably and control feels imprecise. In low-speed city traffic, however, the small size of the vehicle makes it easy to maneuver, and the ride remains composed.
The steering is numb and slow to respond, but casual drivers focused on convenience over engagement likely won’t mind. Unfortunately, the Versa Note also had the longest stopping distance among its competitors, though the brake pedal itself felt responsive and easy to modulate in everyday conditions.
Fuel economy is one of the Versa Note’s strongest selling points. In EPA estimates, it ranks highly among subcompact hatchbacks.
However, in real-world testing, it underperformed, delivering 37 mpg—second-lowest in its competitive set. While that’s still a solid figure and better than what we saw from the Versa sedan, other small cars like the Kia Rio and Honda Fit Sport were more fuel efficient during real-world use.
Toyota Yaris
The Yaris is a budget-friendly vehicle that unfortunately feels as inexpensive as its price tag suggests, making it a lesser contender in a crowded and competitive class.
Its underpowered engine delivers sluggish acceleration, and during our highway fuel economy test, it missed its EPA estimate of 36 mpg by 2 mpg.
For those seeking the best performance, the manual transmission is a better option than the automatic. While the ride quality is agreeable and the brakes perform well, the steering lacks feedback.
Among its stronger points are good outward visibility and the user-friendly Toyota Entune infotainment system.
If you’re in the market for a compact car but can’t decide between a traditional petrol engine and going fully electric, the Toyota Yaris Hybrid might be the ideal solution.
As a full hybrid, the Yaris operates like a conventional petrol-powered vehicle but also offers the ability to drive short distances at low speeds purely on electric power. This dual capability comes from Toyota’s clever integration of a battery and electric motor alongside a 1.5-litre petrol engine.
Toyota has long been a leader in hybrid technology, and the fourth-generation Yaris Hybrid showcases that expertise. In fact, it posted one of the best fuel efficiency results ever recorded in Real MPG testing. Despite its excellent economy, however, the Yaris has always struggled to surpass the best offerings in the small car segment.
Models like the Volkswagen Polo provide superior comfort and interior quality, the Honda Jazz excels in practicality, and the Renault Clio has long stood out for its value. So the question remains: does the latest Toyota Yaris Hybrid finally surpass its closest competitors? Read on to find out how it compares.
The Toyota Yaris Hybrid has several key strengths, including excellent fuel efficiency, Toyota’s well-established reputation for reliability, and generous standard equipment.
However, it does fall short in several areas: it can’t quite match the Polo’s interior fit and finish or ride comfort, and the cabin feels cramped, especially in the rear seats when compared to the Honda Jazz. For most buyers, the entry-level engine paired with the mid-range Design trim will offer the right mix of features and performance.
The Yaris impresses with real-world fuel economy, dependable reliability, and slower depreciation rates. On the flip side, the ride can feel too firm—especially on higher trims with larger wheels—and rear passenger space is limited. While the interior quality isn’t poor, it doesn’t stand out in the segment.
Pricing for new models starts at £21,480, with monthly payments from approximately £264. Lease options are also available starting from £262 per month. Among the available trims, the Yaris 1.5 Hybrid Design 5dr CVT, with an RRP of £23,445, stands out as a smart pick thanks to its balanced offering of price, features, and performance.
In terms of driving dynamics, the Yaris is lively off the line and feels stable in corners, with body roll well-controlled. The base model uses a 114bhp 1.5-litre three-cylinder petrol engine coupled with an electric motor.
The higher-powered Yaris Hybrid 130 bumps engine output to 128bhp. Both versions come with a CVT automatic transmission. This gearbox delivers prompt responses but tends to push the engine into higher revs under hard acceleration, which results in noticeable noise—particularly in the more powerful version.
If you’re curious about a higher-performance variant, refer to the Toyota GR Yaris review for more details.
Ride comfort depends heavily on the trim level. Icon and Design versions ride on 16-inch wheels and feature regular suspension, resulting in a firm but manageable experience. These versions follow the contours of the road more than rivals like the Honda Jazz and VW Polo, but they avoid becoming uncomfortable.
However, Excel, GR Sport, and Premiere Edition trims come with larger 17- or 18-inch wheels, which make the ride considerably firmer. These versions feel unsettled over potholes, especially around town, though the ride improves noticeably at motorway speeds.
If you’re after a small car that blends comfort and firmness effectively, the Audi A1 is worth considering. It offers one of the smoothest, most composed rides in the class and is priced similarly to the Yaris. For buyers focused on hybrid options, the Honda Jazz remains a strong alternative.
When it comes to handling, the Yaris performs reasonably well. While it’s not the most entertaining small car to drive, it holds its own when pushed along a winding road. There’s a decent level of grip and limited body roll, making it feel more composed through corners than a VW Polo.
It’s also more engaging to drive than the Honda Jazz, though it still trails the Renault Clio and Seat Ibiza in terms of outright fun and steering precision. These rivals feel lighter and deliver more immediate, confident responses when entering a corner.
Noise and vibration levels are another area where the Yaris performs well—at least around town. In low-speed settings, the petrol engine often shuts off entirely, leaving the electric motor to quietly power the car. Even when the engine does engage, it remains subdued during light driving.
The main drawback is that under strong acceleration, engine revs spike and remain high until you reach cruising speed, which can be grating. On the motorway, tyre noise becomes the dominant sound, especially in models equipped with larger wheels. In comparison, the Skoda Fabia and VW Polo are noticeably quieter at higher speeds.
Chevrolet Sonic
The Chevrolet Sonic stands out with its sharp styling and delivers a balanced mix of practicality, fuel efficiency, and nimble handling, all in a compact footprint.
The base model comes with a 1.8-liter inline-four engine, paired with either a five- or six-speed manual transmission, or a six-speed automatic.
However, the 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder is the engine to go for, offering a choice between a six-speed manual or automatic.
Available in both sedan and hatchback forms, the Sonic is designed to attract a wide range of buyers.
It also features a 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system equipped with 4G LTE connectivity, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and built-in Wi-Fi.
