When it comes to the fast-paced and often expensive nature of city living, being able to get around quickly and affordably is of the utmost importance. This is why subcompact cars are the ideal transport option. Their small size means that they can easily zip around even the busiest streets, and no parking spot is too small for them. On top of this, they are normally quite cheap to buy and even cheaper to run thanks to their low weight and generally fuel-efficient powertrains.
Now, while these types of cars are more popular in Europe, there are still plenty of options in the USA. These include sedan, coupe, and even crossover models, so finding the best value for your money can require a bit of sifting and searching. The ones most deserving of you hard-earned cash should combine practicality, safety, technology, and economy, like these popular and commendable choices:
- Kia Soul
The Soul has been around for ages despite being one of the quirkiest small cars on the market. Its blocky design won’t appeal to everyone, but there’s no denying that it results in a spacious cabin and cargo bay. Unfortunately, hatchbacks are not big sellers in the states, even if they boast some of the best value for money
The base MSRP is less than $20k, and fuel economy across the city/highway/combined cycles is 28/33/30 miles per gallon. Furthermore, Kia has one of the best warranty plans in the industry, and replacement parts are cheap and readability available.
At such a low price point, you have to accept that the list of features isn’t overly populated, and opting for one of the better-equipped trims sees the price climb beyond the point of affordable value.
- Hyundai Kona
While hatchbacks are relatively rare in the states, crossovers are a dime a dozen. The higher driving position grants a better view of the road, and the construction of this body style makes it inherently safer and more comfort-focused. Most models also come with a modest selection of driver-assistance features and more cargo space than you’d find in a sedan.
The Kona may be small, but it is backed with value. The 147-horsepower base engine gets pretty good mileage, while the optional 195-hp turbo-four on the Kona N promises a more exciting driving experience. And if you opt for the 201-hp/291 lb-ft electric motor powertrain, you end up with one of the best small electric cars.
In any of the three configurations, this subcompact crossover proves to be a comfortable and easy driver with a focus on safety and reliability. This makes it ideal for budding families, although the slightly cramped rear seats mean you may want to upgrade to something larger when the kids enter their teens.
- Nissan Versa
Easily one of the cheapest cars on the road, the Nissan Versa is, nonetheless, packed with value. It’s an ideal commuter thanks to its extremely thrifty fuel economy figures and standard list of driver-assistance features. It also boasts a spacious trunk for the overall size of the sedan, so running errands on your way back from the office shouldn’t be a problem.
It’s not particularly well-suited for more than two passengers, though, as the back seat is short on legroom. The already strained acceleration could also takes a hit if it needs to lug around the weight of four or five people as well as additional cargo.
The overall look of the vehicle is good considering the price, but the dashboard tech like the infotainment screen could be more refined. There are cheaper sedan or hatchback options out there, too, but few offer the same level of value as the Versa.
- Volvo XC40
If you don’t mind spending a little more money, you can unlock the lower echelons of the luxury vehicle market. This includes the likes of Mercedes-Benz GLA, but if you want real value for your larger investment, the Volvo XC40 is the way to go. It’s a very handsome subcompact SUV and sports more cabin space than is common in premium cars.
Also, unlike its German rivals, it comes inclusive of a lot more safety and comfort features that don’t add to the already high asking price, relatively speaking. It’s still less than $40k, after all, and you need to consider that its fuel economy could be better. This can be remedied by making a bigger investment upfront and opting for the XC40 Recharge, which is the fully-electric variant.
At nearly $15k extra, you get all the same benefits as the base model, as well as phenomenal mileage and a lot more power from the electric motors. This also makes the already insulated cabin sound completely cut off from the outside world. The overall experience is one of quiet and refined luxury.