Car Rankings: Affordable Compact Wagons

Ranking of compact wagons and hatchbacks, generally priced under $25,000. Chrysler PT Cruiser, Chevrolet HHR, MINI Clubman and more. Rankings based on an in-depth analysis by U.S. News editors of all published auto ratings, reviews and test drives.

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MSRP: $19,075 - $27,165
Invoice: $18,400 - $25,392
Avg. Paid: $19,016 - $26,724
MPG: 21 City / 30 Hwy

#1
2009 Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen

The 2009 Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen offers a lot of usable space and one of the most refined driving experiences available in a compact wagon, all available for ...

U.S.News Scores
Overall:	8.6
Performance:	8.7
Exterior:	7.5
Interior:	7.7
Safety:	9.4
Reliability:	5.0

MSRP: $20,200 - $30,800
Invoice: $18,180 - $27,720
Avg. Paid: $20,451 - $30,727
MPG: 28 City / 37 Hwy

#2
2009 MINI Clubman

The 2009 MINI Clubman takes the formula that the MINI Cooper used to achieve worldwide popularity and expands on it, literally and figuratively. The Clubman has all ...

U.S.News Scores
Overall:	8.0
Performance:	8.2
Exterior:	8.1
Interior:	6.3
Safety:	NA
Reliability:	5.0

MSRP: $15,939 - $19,639
Invoice: $15,301 - $18,853
Avg. Paid: $16,139 - $19,756
MPG: 21 City / 28 Hwy

#2
2009 Suzuki SX4 Wagon

The SX4 Wagon's all-wheel-drive capability, abundant cargo space, well-equipped interior and budget price make it an appealing car. However, its heavy curb weight detracts from performance and ...

U.S.News Scores
Overall:	8.0
Performance:	7.5
Exterior:	7.9
Interior:	7.8
Safety:	8.3
Reliability:	5.0

MSRP: $18,720 - $25,135
Invoice: $17,878 - $24,004
Avg. Paid: $18,967 - $25,161
MPG: 22 City / 32 Hwy

#4
2009 Chevrolet HHR

The HHR is a good option for drivers who care more about style and practicality than they do performance.

U.S.News Scores
Overall:	7.2
Performance:	6.7
Exterior:	7.5
Interior:	7.6
Safety:	8.4
Reliability:	5.0

MSRP: $18,000 - $24,510
Invoice: $16,950 - $22,939
Avg. Paid: $18,060 - $24,277
MPG: 21 City / 26 Hwy

#5
2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser

The PT Cruiser, with its spacious interior, offers plenty of cargo and passenger room for the money, but reviewers complain that it is underpowered.

U.S.News Scores
Overall:	7.0
Performance:	7.4
Exterior:	7.5
Interior:	7.7
Safety:	6.6
Reliability:	7.0

Unranked: Affordable Compact Wagons

Our rankings are based on analysis of third party reviews. Sometimes, we are unable to find enough reviews to publish a definitive ranking. Please check back later, as we are constantly updating our reviews.