Subcompact models used to be unexciting, scaled down versions of larger models--in most cases, with all the best features missing.
But the latest small cars are different, with smart design and clever features, as well as an engaging driving experience.
The Honda Fit is the reigning top performer in this class, with excellent handling, good safety, and a responsive, nimble driving feel.
The Fiesta beats the Honda for cohesive style and design, inside and out, but the Fit has lots more interior space and versatility.
The Nissan Versa was redesigned last year, but it's become more of a traditional economy car.
The Hyundai Accent is another great option, with a comfortable ride and very efficient direct-injection engine.
The Toyota Yaris is another interesting alternative, and while its stylish exterior might pull you in, ir's just not that engaging to drive.
Perhaps the surprise of this segment this past model year has been the Chevrolet Sonic; it's one of the best subcompacts for handling, styling, and safety, even though it's not the most spacious or versatile.
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 2014 Ford FiestaBrowse Used Listings |  2014 Chevrolet SonicBrowse Used Listings |  2014 Hyundai AccentBrowse Used Listings |  2014 Nissan VersaBrowse Used Listings |  2014 Scion xDBrowse Used Listings |  2013 Honda FitBrowse Used Listings |
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| Quick Specs | |||||
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Affordable small cars don't need to be bland, whether in appearance or from behind the wheel. And the 2014 Ford Fiesta is proof of that. |
The 2014 Chevrolet Sonic is light-years ahead of its Aveo predecessor, which Chevy hopes you'll forget. It's stylish, comfortable, drives nicely, and has excellent safety ratings and infotainment features. |
The 2014 Hyundai Accent isn't exciting to drive, but it's one of the most comfortable, well-equipped cars its size--and still a great value. |
As one of the lowest-priced new cars, the 2014 Nissan Versa and Versa Note are best matched up against a slightly upmarket late-model used car; while it's not sporty, it is roomy, with good packaging and lots of available technology. |
Sadly, the 2014 Scion xD is less fun to drive than to look at, though it's spacious for its size. |
If you're not turned off by the utilitarian look of the 2013 Honda Fit, you'll like what you get, which is awesome practicality and space-efficiency, plus some driving verve. |
| MSRP From | |||||
| $14,100 | $14,170 | $14,645 | $11,990 | $15,920 | $15,425 |
| Gas Mileage | |||||
| 26 MPG City / 36 MPG Hwy | 25 MPG City / 35 MPG Hwy | 27 MPG City / 38 MPG Hwy | 26 MPG City / 40 MPG Hwy | 27 MPG City / 33 MPG Hwy | 27 MPG City / 35 MPG Hwy |
| Engine | |||||
| Regular Unleaded I-4 | Gas I4 | Regular Unleaded I-4 | Regular Unleaded I-4 | Regular Unleaded I-4 | Gas I4 |
| EPA Class | |||||
| Subcompact Cars | Compact Cars | Compact Cars | Compact Cars | Subcompact Cars | Small Station Wagon |
| Style Name | |||||
| 4-Door Sedan S | 4-Door Sedan Manual LS | 4-Door Sedan Manual GLS | 4-Door Sedan Manual 1.6 S | 5-Door HB Manual (GS) | 5-Door HB Manual |
| Drivetrain | |||||
| Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive |
| Passenger Capacity | |||||
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Passenger Doors | |||||
| N/A | 4 | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Body Style | |||||
| Sedan | Sedan | Sedan | Sedan | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Transmission | |||||
| Manual w/OD | Manual | Manual w/OD | Manual w/OD | Manual w/OD | Manual |
| Detailed Spec Comparison | |||||
| 2014 Ford Fiesta vs. 2014 Chevrolet Sonic | 2014 Ford Fiesta vs. 2014 Hyundai Accent | 2014 Ford Fiesta vs. 2014 Nissan Versa | 2014 Ford Fiesta vs. 2014 Scion xD | 2014 Ford Fiesta vs. 2013 Honda Fit | |
