If you don't mind sacrificing some efficiency, get the 210-hp 2.0-liter turbo engine on the 2018 VW Jetta
The best compact cars have a lot going on. They are fuel efficient, and they are easier to navigate in the city. They are also very affordable compared to their midsize sedan siblings. And as far as style goes, they are looking pretty sharp.
There are a ton of choices right now in the compact car market. We’ve taken it upon ourselves to give you some help in choosing the best compact car. But keep in mind, what works best for you might not be the top overall car – you’ll have to put your butt in some driver’s seats to make your own decision. Here’s our list of the best compact cars out there right now.
10. 2018 Volkswagen Jetta
Rated at 40 miles per gallon on the highway and 28 mpg in the city, the 2018 Volkswagen Jetta continues a legacy of incredibly fuel mileage. And just to clarify – there are no Dieselgate scandal ratings used here. You might not find the Jetta all that exciting to drive with its 150-horsepower 1.4-liter four-cylinder, though. If you don’t mind sacrificing a bit of efficiency, the 210-horsepower 2.0-liter turbo engine, 6-speed DSG auto trans, and independent front and rear suspensions could be what you want.
The Jetta isn’t the best-looking car of the bunch, but it’s not the worst either. It’s a subdued sedan that could work for either family or business, but probably not much for pleasure.
9. 2018 Kia Forte
One of the more stylish entries for best compact car is the 2018 Kia Forte sedan. There’s nothing really dramatic about it but it all comes together quite handsomely. The Kia grille is attractive, the silhouette is proportional, and it rides on nice wheels. All things that matter.
The Forte doesn’t blow the doors off with fuel efficiency, although it’s not horrible either. Automatic trans is better than manual, getting 37mpg highway and 29mpg city. Base horsepower is just 147 horsepower from its Atkinson-cycle 2.0-liter four-cylinder. It improves slightly with the EX trim to 164, but it’s still not uber-exciting.
