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.
Perhaps the surprise of this segment 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.
The Hyundai Accent is a good option, with a comfortable ride and a very efficient direct-injection engine.
The Toyota Yaris is another interesting alternative, and while its stylish exterior might pull you in, it's just not that engaging to drive.
Nissan's Versa has also become more of a traditional economy car, with low cost its main goal.
The Honda Fit is the reigning top performer in this class, with excellent handling, good safety, and a responsive, nimble driving feel.
The Fiesta may beat the Honda's love-it-or-hate-it styling for some, but the Fit has lots more interior space and versatility.
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 2016 Ford FiestaBrowse Used Listings |  2016 Chevrolet SonicBrowse Used Listings |  2016 Honda FitBrowse Used Listings |  2016 Hyundai AccentBrowse Used Listings |  2016 Nissan VersaBrowse Used Listings |  2015 Chevrolet SonicBrowse Used Listings |
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| Quick Specs | |||||
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The 2016 Fiesta offers fun and features not expected at these prices, but it lacks interior space compared to top rivals. |
Despite its five years largely unchanged, the 2016 Chevrolet Sonic remains stylish and comfortable, and it scores big not only on safety ratings, but also driving fun. |
The 2016 Honda Fit isn't as entertaining to drive as it once was, but it's unmatched in safety and space, thanks to the Magic Seat. |
The 2016 Hyundai Accent is a practical and economical subcompact car, but crash-test scores are below par. |
The 2016 Nissan Versa sedan and Versa Note hatchback are no-frills transportation with plenty of space, but poor safety and performance ratings. |
The 2015 Chevrolet Sonic is comfortable, stylish, safe, and drives well, and almost completely blots out our memory of a much worse Chevy Aveo from the past. |
| MSRP From | |||||
| $14,580 | $14,345 | $15,890 | $14,745 | $11,990 | $14,245 |
| Gas Mileage | |||||
| 26 MPG City / 36 MPG Hwy | 24 MPG City / 37 MPG Hwy | 29 MPG City / 41 MPG Hwy | 26 MPG City / 38 MPG Hwy | 26 MPG City / 40 MPG Hwy | 25 MPG City / 40 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 | Small Station Wagon | Compact Cars | Compact Cars | Compact Cars |
| Style Name | |||||
| 4-Door Sedan S | 4-Door Sedan Manual LS | 5-Door HB Manual LX | 4-Door Sedan Manual SE | 4-Door Sedan Manual 1.6 S | 4-Door Sedan Manual LS |
| 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 | 4 |
| Body Style | |||||
| Sedan | Sedan | Hatchback | Sedan | Sedan | Sedan |
| Transmission | |||||
| Manual w/OD | Manual | Manual w/OD | Manual w/OD | Manual w/OD | Manual |
| Detailed Spec Comparison | |||||
| 2016 Ford Fiesta vs. 2016 Chevrolet Sonic | 2016 Ford Fiesta vs. 2016 Honda Fit | 2016 Ford Fiesta vs. 2016 Hyundai Accent | 2016 Ford Fiesta vs. 2016 Nissan Versa | 2016 Ford Fiesta vs. 2015 Chevrolet Sonic | |
