View the best small cars generally priced under $20,000. Compare small car reviews, specs and features for your top small cars. Learn more about our rankings.
#1
2013 Ford Fiesta
If you want good driving dynamics, high-tech interior features and great gas mileage, there are few small cars that top the 2013 Ford Fiesta. Read full review »
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 8.7 |
| Critics' Rating: | 9.3 |
| Performance: | 8.7 |
| Interior: | 8.4 |
| Safety: | 9.4 |
Reliability:
| |
#1
2013 Honda Fit
The 2013 Honda Fit offers ample passenger and cargo space for such a small car, but test drivers wish ... Read full review »
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 8.7 |
| Critics' Rating: | 9.2 |
| Performance: | 8.2 |
| Interior: | 8.8 |
| Safety: | 9.2 |
| Reliability:
| |
#1
2013 Mazda Mazda3
While the 2013 Mazda3 ranks highly for its powerful engines and sharp handling, test drivers think it isn’t as practical as its rivals. Read full review »
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 8.7 |
| Critics' Rating: | 9.1 |
| Performance: | 8.9 |
| Interior: | 7.9 |
| Safety: | 9.4 |
| Reliability:
| |
#4
2013 Ford Focus
The 2013 Ford Focus ranks near the top of its class for its high fuel economy ratings ... Read full review »
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 8.6 |
| Critics' Rating: | 9.1 |
| Performance: | 8.2 |
| Interior: | 7.0 |
| Safety: | 9.4 |
| Reliability:
| |
#5
2013 Chevrolet Cruze
While test drivers say the 2013 Chevrolet Cruze is far from fast, its smooth ride, impressive crash test scores, ... Read full review »
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 8.4 |
| Critics' Rating: | 8.8 |
| Performance: | 8.2 |
| Interior: | 8.4 |
| Safety: | 9.8 |
| Reliability:
| |
#5
2013 Volkswagen Golf
The 2013 Volkswagen Golf has a high-quality interior, spacious cabin and fuel-efficient diesel engine, but the Golf is also one of the most expensive cars in its ... Read full review »
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 8.4 |
| Critics' Rating: | 8.9 |
| Performance: | 8.3 |
| Interior: | 8.8 |
| Safety: | 9.8 |
| Reliability:
| |
#7
2013 Toyota Prius c
The 2013 Toyota Prius c has impressive gas mileage and easy-to-use tech and climate features, but test drivers complain about its underpowered engine. Read full review »
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 8.3 |
| Critics' Rating: | 8.6 |
| Performance: | 6.6 |
| Interior: | 7.2 |
| Safety: | 9.8 |
| Reliability:
| |
#8
2012 Scion xB
The 2012 Scion xB has poor fuel economy for the class, but test drivers think its impressive tech features and ample passenger and cargo space help compensate for this ... Read full review »
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 8.2 |
| Critics' Rating: | 8.6 |
| Performance: | 7.6 |
| Interior: | 7.8 |
| Safety: | 9.8 |
| Reliability:
| |
#9
2013 Chevrolet Sonic
Test drivers think the 2013 Chevy Sonic is a smart choice for shoppers who want a small car with sharp handling, smooth transmissions and a spacious cabin, but ... Read full review »
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 8.1 |
| Critics' Rating: | 8.2 |
| Performance: | 7.8 |
| Interior: | 8.1 |
| Safety: | 9.8 |
| Reliability:
| |
#9
2012 Honda CR-Z
Test drivers think the 2012 Honda CR-Z is the best-performing hybrid car on the market, but warn shoppers that it isn’t the most fuel-efficient or spacious one available. Read full review »
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 8.1 |
| Critics' Rating: | 8.3 |
| Performance: | 7.5 |
| Interior: | 7.4 |
| Safety: | 9.2 |
| Reliability:
| |
#9
2013 Hyundai Elantra
Reviewers likes the 2013 Hyundai Elantra’s spacious cabin and ample cargo space. The Elantra also outshines its rivals with a list of interior features that wouldn’t be out of ... Read full review »
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 8.1 |
| Critics' Rating: | 8.8 |
| Performance: | 7.6 |
| Interior: | 7.5 |
| Safety: | 9.4 |
| Reliability:
| |
#9
2013 Kia Rio
The 2013 Kia Rio is a good car for anyone looking for a competent daily driver with a comfortable ride and a healthy amount of cargo space. Read full review »
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 8.1 |
| Critics' Rating: | 8.7 |
| Performance: | 7.4 |
| Interior: | 7.2 |
| Safety: | 9.2 |
| Reliability:
| |
#9
2013 Kia Soul
The 2013 Kia Soul stands out among affordable small cars for its long warranty, ample passenger space and impressive standard features list. Despite this, some test drivers wish the ... Read full review »
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 8.1 |
| Critics' Rating: | 8.4 |
| Performance: | 7.2 |
| Interior: | 8.4 |
| Safety: | 9.4 |
| Reliability:
| |
#14
2013 Hyundai Accent
The 2013 Hyundai Accent has a long list of standard features, high fuel economy ratings and impressive interior space for its size. Critics say it isn’t speedy, but most don’t ... Read full review »
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 8.0 |
| Critics' Rating: | 8.4 |
| Performance: | 7.4 |
| Interior: | 8.1 |
| Safety: | 9.0 |
| Reliability:
| |
#14
2013 Mazda Mazda2
Reviewers like the 2013 Mazda2’s responsive steering and simple interior, but say shoppers who want a strong engine and more optional interior tech should check out competitors. Read full review »
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 8.0 |
| Critics' Rating: | 8.3 |
| Performance: | 8.4 |
| Interior: | 7.8 |
| Safety: | 8.8 |
| Reliability:
| |
#14
2013 Mini Cooper
Test drivers like that the 2013 Mini Cooper combines great driving dynamics and good fuel economy, but uncomfortable rear seats, a small trunk and confusing interior features ... Read full review »
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 8.0 |
| Critics' Rating: | 8.6 |
| Performance: | 8.8 |
| Interior: | 6.3 |
| Safety: | 9.3 |
| Reliability:
| |
#14
2013 Subaru Impreza
Test drivers say that the 2013 Subaru Impreza earns points for practicality with its spacious, comfortable interior and standard all-wheel drive. Read full review »
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 8.0 |
| Critics' Rating: | 8.5 |
| Performance: | 7.8 |
| Interior: | 8.9 |
| Safety: | 10.0 |
| Reliability:
| |
#18
2013 Fiat 500
Many reviewers think the 2013 Fiat 500 is one of the most attractive cars on the road, but its tight interior and underpowered base engine make competitors more appealing ... Read full review »
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 7.9 |
| Critics' Rating: | 8.0 |
| Performance: | 7.7 |
| Interior: | 6.3 |
| Safety: | 9.4 |
| Reliability: | NA |
#18
2013 Volkswagen Beetle
Test drivers like the 2013 Volkswagen Beetle’s diverse engine lineup. They also praise the Beetle’s cabin, which is pretty spacious for a hatchback that puts fashion before ... Read full review »
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 7.9 |
| Critics' Rating: | 8.4 |
| Performance: | 8.0 |
| Interior: | 6.5 |
| Safety: | 9.4 |
| Reliability:
| |
#20
2013 Dodge Dart
Most test drivers like the all-new 2013 Dodge Dart for its customizable interior, crisp handling and roomy cabin, but say some rivals are better performers. Read full review »
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 7.8 |
| Critics' Rating: | 8.1 |
| Performance: | 7.9 |
| Interior: | 7.7 |
| Safety: | 9.8 |
| Reliability:
| |
#20
2013 Honda Civic
According to reviewers, the 2013 Honda Civic’s improved interior materials and additional standard features make it class-competitive, but its performance and cabin space are merely adequate. Read full review »
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 7.8 |
| Critics' Rating: | 7.3 |
| Performance: | 7.6 |
| Interior: | 8.0 |
| Safety: | 9.8 |
| Reliability:
| |
#20
2013 Kia Forte
While reviewers find performance from lower Forte trims dull, they think highly of the 2013 Kia Forte for its long warranty coverage and many standard features. Read full review »
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 7.8 |
| Critics' Rating: | 8.3 |
| Performance: | 7.4 |
| Interior: | 7.8 |
| Safety: | 9.2 |
| Reliability:
| |
#20
2013 Scion xD
Reviewers likes the 2013 Scion xD’s many standard features and around-town performance, but say both the front and rear seats need more legroom. Read full review »
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 7.8 |
| Critics' Rating: | 7.8 |
| Performance: | 7.2 |
| Interior: | 7.0 |
| Safety: | 9.8 |
| Reliability:
| |
- MSRP: $24,200 - $26,900
- MPG: 44 City / 44 Hwy
#24
2012 Honda Civic Hybrid
While test drivers are impressed with the 2012 Honda Civic Hybrid’s improved fuel economy ratings, they are disappointed with its bland interior and predictable exterior. Read full review »
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 7.7 |
| Critics' Rating: | 7.6 |
| Performance: | 7.2 |
| Interior: | 7.7 |
| Safety: | 9.8 |
| Reliability:
| |
#24
2013 Mini Cooper Clubman
Reviewers think the 2013 Mini Cooper Clubman is a top performer thanks to its agile handling and powerful engine options, but they say rival cars have more practical passenger ... Read full review »
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 7.7 |
| Critics' Rating: | 8.2 |
| Performance: | 8.3 |
| Interior: | 6.4 |
| Safety: | N/A |
| Reliability:
| |
#24
2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid
The 2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid impresses reviewers with its powerful, turbocharged engine and ample cabin space, but it doesn’t offer much cargo room. Read full review »
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 7.7 |
| Critics' Rating: | 8.0 |
| Performance: | 8.3 |
| Interior: | 8.0 |
| Safety: | 9.4 |
| Reliability:
| |
#27
2013 Chevrolet Spark
With accurate steering and a surprisingly spacious cabin, test drivers say the all-new 2013 Chevrolet Spark makes a great car for the city, but feels unstable and underpowered on ... Read full review »
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 7.6 |
| Critics' Rating: | 8.0 |
| Performance: | 7.2 |
| Interior: | 6.5 |
| Safety: | N/A |
| Reliability:
| |
#27
2012 Mitsubishi i
The 2012 Mitsubishi i is the least expensive electric car available, but reviewers say this perk comes with its fair share of compromises. Read full review »
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 7.6 |
| Critics' Rating: | 8.0 |
| Performance: | 7.4 |
| Interior: | 7.4 |
| Safety: | 7.7 |
| Reliability:
| |
#27
2013 Nissan Cube
The 2013 Nissan Cube gets poor gas mileage but reviewers are impressed with its roomy cabin and cargo capacity. Read full review »
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 7.6 |
| Critics' Rating: | 7.5 |
| Performance: | 7.1 |
| Interior: | 8.1 |
| Safety: | 9.8 |
| Reliability:
| |
#27
2013 Volkswagen Jetta
The 2013 Volkswagen Jetta has one of the most spacious cabins and largest trunks in the class, but lower trims are panned for their cheap interior materials ... Read full review »
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 7.6 |
| Critics' Rating: | 7.8 |
| Performance: | 7.6 |
| Interior: | 8.7 |
| Safety: | 9.4 |
| Reliability:
| |
#31
2013 Nissan Sentra
While test drivers agree that the redesigned 2013 Nissan Sentra is easily surpassed by rivals with stronger engines and better handling, they are impressed with its rear passenger ... Read full review »
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 7.5 |
| Critics' Rating: | 7.8 |
| Performance: | 6.7 |
| Interior: | 7.6 |
| Safety: | 8.7 |
| Reliability:
| |
#32
2013 Hyundai Veloster
Test drivers say that the 2013 Hyundai Veloster offers a high-tech, feature-packed interior. However, they also say that the Veloster's performance doesn’t match its aggressive styling. Read full review »
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 7.4 |
| Critics' Rating: | 7.6 |
| Performance: | 6.7 |
| Interior: | 7.4 |
| Safety: | N/A |
| Reliability:
| |
#33
2013 Scion tC
Although many test drivers say the 2013 Scion tC’s sporty exterior doesn't mean it has engaging performance, they are impressed with its spacious cabin, large cargo area and abundance ... Read full review »
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 7.3 |
| Critics' Rating: | 7.4 |
| Performance: | 6.9 |
| Interior: | 8.0 |
| Safety: | 9.4 |
| Reliability:
| |
#33
2013 Toyota Matrix
While the 2013 Toyota Matrix’s available all-wheel is rare in this class, test drivers don’t think it compensates for the Matrix’s mediocre performance and cheap interior. Read full review »
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 7.3 |
| Critics' Rating: | 6.9 |
| Performance: | 6.8 |
| Interior: | 6.9 |
| Safety: | 9.1 |
| Reliability:
| |
#35
2013 Honda Insight
The 2013 Honda Insight may attract shoppers with good fuel economy and a low price, but test drivers say that the Toyota Prius c offers more standard features and better ... Read full review »
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 7.2 |
| Critics' Rating: | 6.8 |
| Performance: | 7.1 |
| Interior: | 6.9 |
| Safety: | 9.8 |
| Reliability:
| |
#35
2013 Scion iQ
The 2013 Scion iQ isn’t fast and lacks rear-passenger and cargo space, but test drivers say it’s perfect for city life. Read full review »
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 7.2 |
| Critics' Rating: | 7.6 |
| Performance: | 6.3 |
| Interior: | 6.2 |
| Safety: | 8.5 |
| Reliability:
| |
- MSRP: $25,000 - $28,000
- MPG: N/A
#37
2013 Smart Fortwo Electric Drive
According to test drivers, the 2013 Smart Fortwo Electric Drive has good acceleration and a spacious cabin, but it also has very little cargo space and dead ... Read full review »
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 7.1 |
| Critics' Rating: | 7.2 |
| Performance: | 6.5 |
| Interior: | 7.2 |
| Safety: | 9.3 |
| Reliability:
| |
#37
2013 Suzuki SX4
The 2013 Suzuki SX4’s available all-wheel drive is appealing, but other affordable small cars have better fuel economy ratings and more standard features. Read full review »
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 7.1 |
| Critics' Rating: | 7.4 |
| Performance: | 7.3 |
| Interior: | 7.3 |
| Safety: | 7.5 |
| Reliability: | NA |
#37
2013 Toyota Corolla
While most test drivers say the 2013 Toyota Corolla is underpowered, has poor fuel economy and a dull cabin, the Corolla has one of the highest reliability scores in ... Read full review »
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 7.1 |
| Critics' Rating: | 6.4 |
| Performance: | 6.8 |
| Interior: | 7.2 |
| Safety: | 9.4 |
| Reliability:
| |
#40
2013 Nissan Versa
The 2013 Nissan Versa pleases test drivers with its spacious interior, large trunk and low base price. However, they also say that the Versa falters with a low-buck interior ... Read full review »
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 7.0 |
| Critics' Rating: | 7.2 |
| Performance: | 7.2 |
| Interior: | 8.1 |
| Safety: | 8.8 |
| Reliability:
| |
#40
2013 Toyota Yaris
The 2013 Toyota Yaris has one of the highest reliability scores in its class and a roomy cabin, but test drivers prefer its competitors, which have more engaging performance. Read full review »
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 7.0 |
| Critics' Rating: | 6.5 |
| Performance: | 6.6 |
| Interior: | 7.5 |
| Safety: | 9.4 |
| Reliability:
| |
#42
2013 Mitsubishi Lancer
While the 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer’s higher trims impress with powerful engines and outstanding handling, test drivers are disappointed with the cheap interior materials, low fuel economy ratings ... Read full review »
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 6.9 |
| Critics' Rating: | 7.2 |
| Performance: | 7.1 |
| Interior: | 6.3 |
| Safety: | 9.2 |
| Reliability:
| |
#43
2013 Smart Fortwo
If you want a small car for the city and only need seating for two, test drivers think the 2013 Smart Fortwo is a decent choice. However, some say ... Read full review »
| U.S.News Scores | |
|---|---|
| Overall: | 6.3 |
| Critics' Rating: | 5.8 |
| Performance: | 5.3 |
| Interior: | 8.5 |
| Safety: | 9.1 |
| Reliability:
| |
