12 Most Comfortable Small Cars (with Photos)
In recent times, you don’t have to give up luxury and comfort just because you drive a compact car. As compact cars grow more aesthetically beautiful, luxurious, comfortable, and get equipped with more state-of-the-art technology, they are gaining popularity. Therefore, compact cars might just be the way to go now because they are efficient and generally more economical too.
Have a look at the 12 most comfortable small cars that you get in the market:
1. Hyundai Elantra
Starting MSRP: $20,875
With its sleek lines and bold design, the Hyundai Elantra easily manages to stand out of the conventional dated-looking sedans, that too at a starting price of just $20,875.
And most importantly, underneath that attractive body style, there is a comfortable compact car. There are loads of space inside the cabin, seats are fairly comfortable, and the ride quality, too, is very plush.
The Elantra comes with a variety of engines, including a four-cylinder engine with 147 horsepower and a 1.6-liter hybrid motor with 139 horsepower.
Exterior dimensions
| Length (inches) | 184.1 |
| Width (inches) | 71.9 |
| Height (inches) | 55.7 |
| Wheelbase (inches) | 107.1 |
Interior Dimensions
| Total Passenger Volume (cubic feet) | 99.4 |
| Front Head Room (inches) | 38.7 |
| Front Leg Room (inches) | 42.3 |
| Front Shoulder Room (inches) | 56.5 |
| Rear Head Room (inches) | 37.3 |
| Rear LegRoom (inches) | 38 |
| Rear Shoulder Room (inches) | 55.6 |
Cargo Area Dimensions
| Cargo Space with Rear Seats in Place (cubic feet) | 14.2 |
Also read: Are Small Cars Dangerous? Why SUVs aren’t Safe?
2. Mazda 3 Sedan
Starting MSRP: $21,500
The Mazda 3 2020 can frequently be mistaken for a pricier BMW or Audi vehicle. Mazda has done an excellent job with the 2020 facelift of the 3. It looks significantly more upmarket than its sticker price of $21,500 for the base model suggests, thanks to its elegant lines and aggressive style. However, you’ll need to upgrade to the highest trims to enjoy most of the car’s features.
Moreover, it’s not just the outside that impresses, as the 3 sedan is a very comfortable compact car. With a wheelbase of 107.3 inches, the Mazda 3 is quite a roomy car. Passengers particularly love riding in the back seat, thanks to the 37.3 inches of headroom, and 35.1 inches of rear legroom.
Trending Video: How to Easily Bring Back to Life any Old Car Battery and Save Tons of Money (click to watch)
The Mazda 3 is available with a variety of 4-cylinder engines. The 250hp 2.5-liter turbocharged engine, however, offers the most intense acceleration. Thanks to its accurate steering feel and energetic driving dynamics, the Mazda 3 is a lot of fun to drive.
Exterior dimensions
| Length (inches) | 183.5 |
| Width (inches) | 70.7 |
| Height (inches) | 56.9 |
| Wheelbase (inches) | 107.3 |
Interior Dimensions
| Total Passenger Volume (cubic feet) | 92.8 |
| Front Head Room (inches) | 38 |
| Front Leg Room (inches) | 42.3 |
| Front Shoulder Room (inches) | 55.7 |
| Rear Head Room (inches) | 37.3 |
| Rear LegRoom (inches) | 35.1 |
| Rear Shoulder Room (inches) | 53.5 |
Cargo Area Dimensions
| Cargo Space with Rear Seats in Place (cubic feet) | 13.2 |
3. Subaru Impreza
Starting MSRP: $19,755
In spite of its compact body, the Subaru Impreza prioritizes cabin space and comfort. Trunk space is decent at 20.8 cubic feet, however, the passenger space is incredible at 100.9 cubic feet. Moreover, owing to the wide cabin space of the Impreza, there is a good amount of shoulder space available, so you won’t be brushing your shoulder with your co-passenger.
Soft-touch plastics, plush armrests, and excellent fit and finish characterize its cabin. 17-inch alloy wheels, fog lights, powered six-way adjustable driver’s seat, Leather Upholstery, and an eight-inch touchscreen display are some standard features available.
Though the Impreza isn’t the most fuel economical in its class, its driveability and easy handling are not to be overlooked. The Impreza also goes the extra mile to convince those aesthetics aren’t everything. It received excellent ratings in the NHTSA and IIHS safety and crash tests.
Exterior dimensions
| Length (inches) | 176.2 |
| Width (inches) | 70 |
| Height (inches) | 57.3 |
| Wheelbase (inches) | 105.1 |
Interior Dimensions
| Total Passenger Volume (cubic feet) | 100.9 |
| Front Head Room (inches) | 39.8 |
| Front Leg Room (inches) | 43.1 |
| Front Shoulder Room (inches) | 56.7 |
| Rear Head Room (inches) | 38 |
| Rear LegRoom (inches) | 36.5 |
| Rear Shoulder Room (inches) | 55.6 |
Cargo Area Dimensions
| Cargo Space with Rear Seats in Place (cubic feet) | 20.8 |
Also read: Subaru: Which Model Hold the Most Value?
4. Honda Civic
Starting MSRP: $22,915
Honda is one of the best in business, as far as making small cars is concerned. Since the early 1970s, the Civic has been a leader in the compact vehicle segment. For a small car, the Honda Civic redefines passenger room and comfort.
The Honda Civic will wow you with its high-quality interior and host of passenger convenience features. But more so with its space. The Civic has one of the longest wheelbases in the segment, translating to a roomy interior space. The cabin features plenty of legrooms, and its large door openings make for easy entry and exit. Even with the rear seats in place, there are 14.8 cubic ft of available trunk space.
Exterior dimensions
| Length (inches) | 184 |
| Width (inches) | 70.9 |
| Height (inches) | 55.7 |
| Wheelbase (inches) | 107.7 |
Interior Dimensions
| Total Passenger Volume (cubic feet) | 99 |
| Front Head Room (inches) | 39.3 |
| Front Leg Room (inches) | 42.3 |
| Front Shoulder Room (inches) | 57 |
| Rear Head Room (inches) | 37.1 |
| Rear LegRoom (inches) | 37.4 |
| Rear Shoulder Room (inches) | 56 |
Cargo Area Dimensions
| Cargo Space with Rear Seats in Place (cubic feet) | 14.8 |
Also read: 5 Legit Reasons Why Honda Civic is so Popular
5. Volkswagen Golf GTI
Starting MSRP: $29,690
The VW Golf GTI is the car to buy if you want performance as well as comfort. This small automobile is sleek, powerful, and daring. The interior design is athletic but welcoming to all, with roomy and comfortable seating for people of all sizes and heights.
The handling of the GTI is dynamic and responds quickly to the driver, allowing for an exhilarating and fun ride. It also has a fair level of reliability, yet it boasts cutting-edge safety features. In a single word, this compact vehicle is exceptional.
Exterior dimensions
| Length (inches) | 168 |
| Width (inches) | 70.8 |
| Height (inches) | 57.8 |
| Wheelbase (inches) | 103.6 |
Interior Dimensions
| Total Passenger Volume (cubic feet) | 93.5 |
| Front Head Room (inches) | 38.4 |
| Front Leg Room (inches) | 41.2 |
| Front Shoulder Room (inches) | 55.9 |
| Rear Head Room (inches) | 38.1 |
| Rear LegRoom (inches) | 35.6 |
| Rear Shoulder Room (inches) | 53.9 |
Cargo Area Dimensions
| Cargo Space with Rear Seats in Place (cubic feet) | 20.1 |
6. Nissan Versa
Starting MSRP: $16,055
If you are looking for an economical sedan for the daily commute or weekend drives, the Nissan Versa makes for a compelling choice. Though it looks small on the inside, it’s considerably spacious and comfortable for its size.
With a cargo volume of 14.9 cubic feet, the Versa has plenty of room for bags or athletic equipment. A 60/40 split fold-down rear seat is also available, allowing for convenient cargo flexibility for transporting longer things such as snowboards. The rear seat, which has 37 inches of legroom, may be preferable for taller passengers.
It is powered by a 1.6L four-cylinder engine that gets 34 mpg combined according to the EPA. 15-inch steel wheels, six-way adjustable driver’s seat, Two auxiliary 12-volt power outlets, and 60/40 split fold-down are some standard features available.
Exterior dimensions
| Length (inches) | 177 |
| Width (inches) | 68.5 |
| Height (inches) | 57.5 |
| Wheelbase (inches) | 103.1 |
Interior Dimensions
| Total Passenger Volume (cubic feet) | 88.9 |
| Front Head Room (inches) | 39.5 |
| Front Leg Room (inches) | 44.5 |
| Front Shoulder Room (inches) | 53.1 |
| Rear Head Room (inches) | 36.3 |
| Rear LegRoom (inches) | 31 |
| Rear Shoulder Room (inches) | 53.6 |
Cargo Area Dimensions
| Cargo Space with Rear Seats in Place (cubic feet) | 15 |
Also read: Is it Worth Buying a Nissan with over 100K Miles?
7. Toyota Corolla
Starting MSRP: $21,050
The Toyota Corolla maintains its reputation as a low-cost, safe, well-equipped, and pleasant compact car. The Corolla, which is available as a four-door hatchback or a sedan, has a wide range of personalities. The front seats are comfortable and supportive, with enough headroom and legroom for taller passengers. The driver’s seat is also rather comfortable, providing excellent visibility of the outside.
Those who frequently transport passengers in the back seat should choose the sedan over the hatchback because the sedan offers significantly more leg space at the back. However, a large trunk is what you need, better opt for a hatchback that has 18 cubic feet of cargo space behind its back seat.
The Corolla sedan, except the sportier SE and XSE variants, is powered by a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 139 hp; all that power is transmitted to the front wheels through a CVT transmission. The more powerful models sport a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 169 horsepower, mated to a six-speed manual transmission or a CVT. Only the sedan offers a hybrid powertrain that offers an incredible EPA-estimated figure of 53 mpg in the city and 52 on the highway.
Exterior dimensions (sedan)
| Length (inches) | 182.3 |
| Width (inches) | 70.1 |
| Height (inches) | 56.5 |
| Wheelbase (inches) | 106.3 |
Interior Dimensions (sedan)
| Total Passenger Volume (cubic feet) | 88.6 |
| Front Head Room (inches) | 38.3 |
| Front Leg Room (inches) | 42 |
| Front Shoulder Room (inches) | 54 |
| Rear Head Room (inches) | 37.1 |
| Rear LegRoom (inches) | 34.8 |
| Rear Shoulder Room (inches) | 51.7 |
Cargo Area Dimensions (sedan)
| Cargo Space with Rear Seats in Place (cubic feet) | 13.1 |
Also read: Mazda vs Toyota: Which Brand is More Reliable?
8. Volkswagen Jetta
Starting MSRP: $21,190
Don’t be deceived by the compact classification of the Jetta; it’s a remarkably sophisticated and spacious compact car. Inside, the Jetta has a sleek design and enough room for passengers. Though the available features improve with each higher trim level, every interior is designed with the driver in mind and offers superb outward sight.
Under the hood, the Jetta has a 158 hp 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that comes mated to a six-speed manual or an optional eight-speed automatic transmission.
Exterior dimensions
| Length (inches) | 186.5 |
| Width (inches) | 70.8 |
| Height (inches) | 57.7 |
| Wheelbase (inches) | 105.7 |
Interior Dimensions
| Total Passenger Volume (cubic feet) | 94.7 |
| Front Head Room (inches) | 38.5 |
| Front Leg Room (inches) | 41.1 |
| Front Shoulder Room (inches) | 55.9 |
| Rear Head Room (inches) | 37.2 |
| Rear LegRoom (inches) | 37.4 |
| Rear Shoulder Room (inches) | 54 |
Cargo Area Dimensions
| Cargo Space with Rear Seats in Place (cubic feet) | 14.1 |
9. Nissan Sentra
Starting MSRP: $20,485
Though the Nissan Sentra lacks driving athleticism, it pampers front-seat occupants with its Zero Gravity seats, which are large, well-cushioned, and supportive. The optional sunroof reduces headroom in the cabin, but adults have plenty of space both at the front and the rear. The Sentra’s 14-cubic-foot trunk also accommodates seven carry-on luggage.
Powering the Nissan Sentra is a 2.0-litre four-cylinder motor that churns out 149 horsepower and comes mated to a CVT transmission, that channels all the power to the front wheels.
Exterior dimensions
| Length (inches) | 182.7 |
| Width (inches) | 71.5 |
| Height (inches) | 56.9 |
| Wheelbase (inches) | 106.8 |
Interior Dimensions
| Total Passenger Volume (cubic feet) | 96 |
| Front Head Room (inches) | 38.9 |
| Front Leg Room (inches) | 44 |
| Front Shoulder Room (inches) | 56.4 |
| Rear Head Room (inches) | 36.7 |
| Rear LegRoom (inches) | 34.7 |
| Rear Shoulder Room (inches) | 54.5 |
Cargo Area Dimensions
| Cargo Space with Rear Seats in Place (cubic feet) | 14.3 |
10. Kia Forte
Starting MSRP: $20,085
The Kia Forte is another car on this list that offers great comfort despite being a compact car. You will be delighted by the car’s simple interior design and high-quality, expensive materials. Long road journeys in the Forte are possible, since the back seat is spacious and comfortable for two persons.
The seats are optimally cushioned, supportive and comparatively roomy. Plus, there is ample headspace for tall passengers to sit comfortably. The base trim includes all the essential features, but as you progress through the models, things become more enjoyable. Heated and ventilated seats, as well as Dual-zone climate control, are available as an option.
The Kia Forte has 15.3 cubic feet of trunk space, which is one of the highest capacities in the compact car class. The Forte can accommodate 7 carry-on bags with the rear seats in place. All models, but the base trim, come with split-folding rear seats, and a hands-free power lift gate is standard in the GT-Line and higher trims. There are two different engines available with the Kia Forte: a 147 hp 2.0-liter and a 201 hp 1.6-liter engine.
Exterior dimensions
| Length (inches) | 182.7 |
| Width (inches) | 70.9 |
| Height (inches) | 56.5 |
| Wheelbase (inches) | 106.3 |
Interior Dimensions
| Total Passenger Volume (cubic feet) | 96 |
| Front Head Room (inches) | 38.8 |
| Front Leg Room (inches) | 42.2 |
| Front Shoulder Room (inches) | 56.1 |
| Rear Head Room (inches) | 37.5 |
| Rear LegRoom (inches) | 35.7 |
| Rear Shoulder Room (inches) | 55.3 |
Cargo Area Dimensions
| Cargo Space with Rear Seats in Place (cubic feet) | 15.3 |
Also read: Is Kia Expensive to Maintain? (Exact Costs)
11. Skoda Fabia
Starting MSRP: $13,925
Some compact cars are inexpensive and feel it, while others despite having an expensive tag don’t offer much in return. Then comes Fabia. Despite its super mini size, the Fabia is quite roomy inside. For passengers in the front seats, the Skoda Fabia has plenty of room. Even if you’re over six feet tall, there’s still plenty of legrooms.
The driver and front passenger both have plenty of headroom thanks to the car’s relatively tall roofline. It also has wide-opening doors, which is beneficial for accessibility – especially if you’re a parent who has to fit your kids’ car seats in the backseat.
Boot space in the Fabia is very impressive. It manages to fit six carry-on-sized suitcases under the parcel shelf, which is among the almost any small car will fit, in fact, it is a match for cars from the class above.
Exterior dimensions
| Length (inches) | 161.7 |
| Width (inches) | 70.1 |
| Height (inches) | 57.5 |
| Wheelbase (inches) | 100.9 |
Cargo Area Dimensions
| Cargo Space with Rear Seats in Place (cubic feet) | 13.5 |
12. Honda Fit
Starting MSRP: $17,185
With its almost unbelievable ability to accommodate far more items than its modest size suggests, the 2020 Honda Fit may pass for one of those magical clown vehicles. Honda’s tiny hatchback also boasts more passenger capacity than most people expect, thanks to its multi-way folding back seat.
The Fit is a super mini that leads the class in cargo size and has plenty of room for rear passengers. Even taller folks can seat comfortably in the back thanks to the vehicle’s high roofline and people carrier style appearance.
Honda’s proprietary ‘Magic Seat’ mechanism is used in the Fit. This allows the back seats to fold entirely flat into the floor for the larger loads, but you can also tip them up like movie seats to create space in the footwell to stand things up – ideal for difficult-to-stash items.
Exterior dimensions
| Length (inches) | 161.4 |
| Width (inches) | 67 |
| Height (inches) | 60 |
| Wheelbase (inches) | 99.6 |
Interior Dimensions
| Total Passenger Volume (cubic feet) | 95.7 |
| Front Head Room (inches) | 39.5 |
| Front Leg Room (inches) | 41.4 |
| Front Shoulder Room (inches) | 54.8 |
| Rear Head Room (inches) | 37.5 |
| Rear LegRoom (inches) | 39.3 |
| Rear Shoulder Room (inches) | 52.6 |
Cargo Area Dimensions
| Cargo Space with Rear Seats in Place (cubic feet) | 16.6 |
