Compact cars, in addition to being economical, can fit into small parking spaces, make tight turns, and have enough personality to fulfill the needs and practicality of daily life. To help you on your search, we’ve compiled a list of five of the most reliable, fuel efficient, and fun to drive small cars for 2022.
2022 Kia Forte
Starting Price: $18,855
Models available: FE, LXS, GT-Line and GT
What’s new?
- Updated exterior and interior
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now standard
- GT and GT Line versions now come with a new technology package
- More available driver assistance tech
- New safety features and driver aids
| Power | Vehicle Type | Engine type | Torque | EPA Fuel Economy
Combined/city/hwy |
Transmission |
| 147 hp @ 6200 rpm | front-engine, FWD, 5-passenger, 4-door sedan | DOHC 16-valve inline-4, aluminum block and head, port fuel injection | 132 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm | 34/30/40 mpg | continuously variable automatic with manual shifting mode |
The Kia Forte has a stylish look and a lot of value to offer. It is not only less expensive than its competitors, but it is also more spacious, is well-equipped, and fuel-efficient.
The Forte is still a tad harsh around the corners in terms of ride quality and handling. However, if you want to get the most bang for your buck, the Forte competes admirably with the best, like the Honda Civic and Mazda 3.
Read more – Used Audi Q7 Is Quite Reliable
2022 Mazda 3
Starting at $22,165
Models available: Mazda 3 2.0 (sedan only), Mazda 3 2.5 S and Mazda 2.5 Turbo
What’s new?
- Blacked-out Carbon Edition model
- New Platinum Quartz Metallic paint choice
| Power | Vehicle Type | Engine type | Torque | EPA Fuel Economy
Combined/city/hwy |
Transmission |
| 250 hp @ 5000 rpm | front-engine, AWD,5-passenger, 4-door sedan | turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 16-valve inline-4, aluminum block and head, direct fuel injection | 320 lb-ft @ 2500 rpm | 27/23/32 mpg | 6-speed automatic |
The Mazda 3 delivers value and quality at an exceptional price. It is one of the most enjoyable vehicles to drive in the class, thanks to its quick acceleration, engaging handling, and excellent steering feel.
You might want a little more oomph from the standard 2.5-liter engine, but its reliability and upscale interior are well worth it.
The Mazda 3 is available in both sedan and hatchback body styles.
2022 Toyota Corolla
Starting at $21,450
Models available: L, LE, XLE, SE and XSE
What’s new?
- Premium interior package that includes a leather-trimmed steering wheel, leatherette upholstery, a power-adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar support, and heated front seats.
- Two new paint colors (Ruby Flare & Windchill Pearl)
| Power | Vehicle Type | Engine type | Torque | EPA Fuel Economy combined/city/hwy | Transmissions |
| 169 hp @ 6600 rpm | Front-engine, FWD, 5-passenger, 4-door sedan | 1.8-Liter 4-Cylinder, 2.0-Liter 4-Cylinder | 151 lb.-ft. @ 4400 rpm | 32–52/29–53/36–52 mpg | 6-speed manual, continuously variable automatic, continuously variable automatic with 1 fixed ratio and manual shifting mode |
New Toyota Corolla is an economical and attractive compact car with excellent fuel economy, enjoyable driving dynamics, user-friendly features, and a wide range of standard driver assistance features.
It’s worth considering since its starting price is comparable to rivals in the same class. The Corolla is also available in hatchback and hybrid sedan body styles.
2022 Honda Civic
Starting at $23,645
Models available: LX, Sport, EX, Touring and Si
What’s new?
- Redesigned for the year 2022
- Commences the 11th Civic generation
- Available in Sedan and hatchback body variants
| Power | Vehicle Type | Engine type | Torque | EPA Fuel Economy combined/city/hwy | Transmissions |
| 180 hp @ 6000 rpm | Front-engine, FWD, 5-passenger, 4-door sedan | turbocharged four-cylinder | 177 lb-ft @ 1700 rpm | 31/28/37 mpg | 6-speed manual |
Honda’s popular Civic compact car receives a redecorated interior and exterior facelift, along with new features. New Honda Civic is fun-to-drive spacious and has good fuel efficiency. It is stable and sporty around corners and its suspension does a nice job of smoothing out road bumps.
The Honda Civic is somewhat more expensive than the Kia Forte and Toyota Corolla, but it is worth considering for its value, powerful performance, and efficient engine.
Read more – Used Audi RS3 Is A Great Choice
2022 Subaru Impreza
Starting at $20,290
Models available: Base, Premium, Sport, and Limited
What’s new?
- New Sapphire Blue Pearl paint
- The top-tier Limited trim is now only available in hatchback body styl
| Power | Vehicle Type | Engine type | Torque | EPA Fuel Economy
combined/city/hwy |
Transmissions |
| 152 hp @ 6000 rpm | AWD, 5 passenger, 5-door sedan | 2.0L, H4 | 145 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm | 30-32/27-28/36-38 mpg | 5-speed manual, continuously variable automatic with manual shifting mode |
If you’re on a limited budget and looking for a small AWD sedan or hatchback, the New Subaru Impreza is a smart alternative. It offers a spacious cabin that is quiet and comfy.
The 2022 Impreza’s fun-to-drive personality and value make it a reasonable option in its class. However, if you want a better performance Subaru car, you can consider getting a Subaru WRX.
