In today’s fast-paced world, getting from point A to B as quickly and affordably as possible is essential, which is why subcompact cars are so popular. When the global economy is in a slump and the price of fuel is getting higher by the day, nothing beats a small car that can get you where you need to go on a tight budget. But, just because you aren’t paying a prince’s ransom, that doesn’t mean you can’t have great quality. To show you what we mean, here is our ranking of the best subcompact cars of 2024.
Characteristics of Subcompact Cars
Automotive trends in the USA are always in flux, with car brands scrambling to fill gaps in the market and make the biggest sales. Currently, the 4-door subcompact is one such hot product, but what are the qualities you can expect when shopping in this segment?
What to Consider About New Subcompact Car Models Before Buying
There are quite a few options to choose from in this segment, whether they are hatchbacks, sedans, or even SUV crossovers. However, you need to carefully consider if these will really suit your daily needs - especially if you have a family. Drawing up a list of the pros and cons to review can help you make sure that one of the new subcompact car models is the right option instead of a larger compact or midsize car:
Pros
- Generally well-priced and reasonable to maintain
- Very fuel efficient
- Small and easy to drive in traffic
- Moderately practical, especially in hatchback form
- Can be fun to drive, given their nippy powertrains and nimble proportions
Cons
- Few powerful, premium variants - and these are generally quite expensive
- Not nearly as practical as bigger options
- Rear seats are almost always cramped
FAQs
What is considered a subcompact car?
Any vehicle between 157 and 165 inches and with a total interior volume of less than 99 cubic feet falls into the subcompact category, according to authorities. This spreads across segments, however, and includes hatchbacks, sedans, and even crossovers.
What’s the difference between a subcompact car and a compact?
It all comes down to size and capacity. Compacts can measure up to 187 inches in length and supply up to 109 cubic feet of combined passenger and cargo space, which is a bit more than what subcompacts offer.
What is the most reliable subcompact car?
In general, these are cars designed to do long distances wth a focus on dependability. But if you’re looking for one that is both reliable and one of the safest, then models like the Toyota C-HR, Corolla Cross, and Lexus UX are good to add to your shortlist.