Compact cars have remained popular for their affordability, fuel efficiency, and ease of handling. In 2024, compact car manufacturers are setting the bar higher with advanced technology, improved safety features, and greater performance. This article reviews the best compact cars for 2024, evaluating them in terms of performance, price, and features to help you make an informed decision.
Why Choose a Compact Car?
Compact cars are a smart choice for drivers looking to balance cost-effectiveness with performance. They offer excellent fuel economy, reduced environmental impact, and easier parking in urban areas. Many of the latest models provide advanced features and tech-driven enhancements usually found in larger vehicles, making compact cars a versatile choice for a wide range of drivers.
1. Honda Civic
The Honda Civic has long been a favorite in the compact car segment, known for its reliability and performance. The 2024 Honda Civic continues this trend with impressive fuel efficiency and a smooth ride.
Performance
The 2024 Civic comes with two engine options: a 2.0L 4-cylinder that offers 158 horsepower and a 1.5L turbocharged engine with 180 horsepower. Its handling is refined, providing a smooth and comfortable ride whether on city streets or highways.
Price
Starting around $24,000, the Honda Civic is competitively priced, offering a solid mix of performance and value.
Features
The Civic comes standard with Honda Sensing, a suite of advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims offer a 9-inch infotainment display, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, adding to its appeal for tech-savvy drivers.
2. Toyota Corolla
The Toyota Corolla is another reliable option in the compact car market, known for its dependability and fuel efficiency. For 2024, the Corolla comes with modern upgrades that enhance both its performance and user experience.
Performance
The 2024 Corolla is powered by a 2.0L 4-cylinder engine delivering 169 horsepower. Its hybrid variant further boosts fuel efficiency, with an impressive 53 mpg in the city and 52 mpg on the highway.
Price
With a starting price of approximately $23,500, the Corolla offers a well-rounded package for budget-conscious buyers who want a trusted name in compact cars.
Features
The Corolla includes Toyota’s Safety Sense 2.0, which provides pre-collision warnings, lane-departure alerts, and pedestrian detection. It also offers a new 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, making it easy to stay connected on the road.
3. Mazda3
The Mazda3 stands out for its elegant design and dynamic handling, making it a great choice for drivers who want a touch of luxury in a compact car. Available in sedan and hatchback versions, the Mazda3 provides flexibility in style and function.
Performance
The Mazda3 is powered by a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine producing 191 horsepower. The turbocharged variant can deliver up to 250 horsepower, setting it apart in terms of power for a compact car. Its handling is agile, and the steering is responsive, providing an engaging driving experience.
Price
Starting around $25,000, the Mazda3 is a bit pricier than some competitors, but its performance and premium feel make it worth the extra cost.
Features
The Mazda3 features an upscale interior with high-quality materials, an 8.8-inch infotainment system, and advanced driver-assistance features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. Its design and attention to detail provide a more refined experience than many other compact cars.

4. Hyundai Elantra
The Hyundai Elantra offers a mix of style, technology, and affordability. Known for its futuristic design and spacious interior, the 2024 Elantra is a strong contender in the compact car segment.
Performance
The Elantra has a 2.0L engine generating 147 horsepower, with an available turbocharged 1.6L engine in the N Line trim for added power. Its ride quality is smooth, with adequate acceleration for both city and highway driving.
Price
Priced from around $22,500, the Elantra is one of the most affordable options in this category, offering excellent value for its price.
Features
Hyundai equips the Elantra with SmartSense, a suite of safety features that includes forward-collision avoidance and lane-following assist. The 10.25-inch digital display and touchscreen interface, standard in higher trims, add to the Elantra’s tech-savvy appeal.
5. Kia Forte
The Kia Forte combines affordability with a surprising level of features, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious drivers. Its spacious cabin and intuitive infotainment system are notable advantages in the compact category.
Performance
The Forte offers a 2.0L engine that produces 147 horsepower, with an available turbocharged 1.6L engine in the GT trim that delivers a sporty 201 horsepower. Its handling is solid, although less sporty than some competitors like the Civic or Mazda3.
Price
The Kia Forte starts at around $21,500, making it the most budget-friendly option in this list, while still offering great features and reliability.
Features
Standard features include an 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims offer advanced driver-assistance technologies, making the Forte a competitive option in terms of value and safety.
Conclusion
The compact car segment in 2024 offers a range of choices that cater to different priorities, from budget and fuel efficiency to luxury and power. The Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla are ideal for those prioritizing reliability and safety, while the Mazda3 stands out for its sporty handling and upscale feel. The Hyundai Elantra provides a tech-forward experience, and the Kia Forte offers impressive features at an affordable price. Each of these models brings something unique, allowing drivers to find a compact car that perfectly suits their lifestyle and budget.