Best Compact Sedans. 2022 Small Sedans Rated

Characteristics of a Compact Sedan

Since they are available in a variety of forms, compact 4-door sedans don’t always share the same traits. Nevertheless, there are still some things you can count on when shopping in this segment.

Size: Naturally, the defining characteristic of these cars is their dimensions. This can be both a good and bad thing. Smaller cars are generally cheap compared to large, more practical SUVs. However, the cabin can be cramped, especially in the rear. There is almost always plenty of space in the front, though, and the trunk is often quite accommodating.
Economy: As already mentioned, you can usually buy a new compact sedan at a really affordable price. But, they also save you money in the long run, thanks to their great cost of ownership. Small displacement four- or even three-cylinder engines are common, and these small and light vehicles sip lightly from the gas tank, too.
Driveability: One of the best things about small sedans is just how easy they are to drive. They are lightweight and highly maneuverable, and with just a few driver assists, they are relaxing cars to commute in. On the other hand, compact sports cars are a blast to drive. They are fast and responsive, with a lot less weight to manage behind the wheel. These are also usually the only models that include the option of AWD.
Practicality: These are not particularly practical vehicles. If they do have a respectable trunk, this usually comes at the cost of room in the back seat. Luckily, the driver and front passenger shouldn’t have anything to complain about. This situation is usually reversed on premium models, which try to give rear passengers more space to enjoy the ride, but their trunks are laughably small.

What to Consider When Buying a New Compact Sedan

The automotive industry is extremely competitive, and there are a lot of options even within the sedan classification. But, when you start comparing them with SUVs, pickups, or even hatchbacks, you can’t help but wonder if a sedan is the best choice for you. Here is a quick run down of the pros and cons of compact sedan cars to help you make that decision:

Pros

Generally far more affordable than larger vehicles
Small size and light weight equals excellent fuel economy
Highly maneuverable around busy town streets and easy to park
Quite a few luxury and sports car variants if that’s more your speed

Cons

All-round practicality is rare, with most models favoring either the rear seat or trunk
Not many hybrid or electric options right now
Start to lose their appeal as your family grows

FAQs

Is a compact sedan better than a hatchback?

The answer depends on what you want. Both are great for driving in and around the city, but a sedan offers more interior passenger capacity. Meanwhile, hatchbacks are a roomier trunk, since it gives a lot more area from the trunk floor to the ceiling and the liftgate makes it far accessible.

Are sedans more efficient than crossovers in terms of fuel economy?

Most sedans use low-displacement four-cylinder engines fr improved efficiency. However, even when comparing an SUV model with the same powertrain, the added weight sees gas mileage drop noticeably. This is why sedans are great for regular commuters who want to keep fule costs down.

Are there any affordable compact sedans?

There are plenty of cheap sedans to choose from, but if you are looking for something more than the bare minimum, you may want to look at used models from 2021 or earlier. This gives you access to advanced features at a fraction of the price. Just make sure they have been kept in good shape, as a reliable secondhand car can serve you well for years to come and reduce maintenance fees.

Best Compact Sedans of 2022