Best Subcompact Cars of 2023 | New Subcompact Car Models

Characteristics of Subcompact Cars

Automotive trends in the USA are always in flux, with car brands scrambling to fill gaps in the market and make the biggest sales. Currently, the 4-door subcompact is one such hot product, but what are the qualities you can expect when shopping in this segment?

Dimensions: Size is one of the very first defining characteristics. In comparison to a subcompact, just about anything else seems big. They usually measure between 157 and 165 inches in length, while overall cabin and trunk capacity doesn’t exceed 99 cubic feet combined. Height depends on the type of vehicle, with hatches standing taller than sedans, but they are generally just as wide. Naturally, their smaller footprint results in a lower overall weight.
Design: Subcompact cars come in many shapes and forms, from tiny hatchbacks to diminutive sedans and even pint-sized crossovers. Almost every segment has something to offer in this size category.
Practicality: Though they may be small, the best-rated subcompact cars are often highly practical. Space is normally reserved for the trunk, especially in hatchbacks, but you can still fit people in the rear seats when necessary. Nevertheless, they are better suited to solitary work commutes or families with toddlers rather than lanky teens.
Power: Few subcompacts have particularly potent powertrains. After all, you don’t need a lot of oomph to move something so small. That being said, when a car of this size does have a bit of fire under the hood, you end up with something like a hot hatch, which can be some of the most enjoyable cars to drive. It’s a pity there aren’t more of these in the USA.
Price: So long as you don’t compare budget models to premium models, subcompacts are generally extremely cheap to buy. What’s more, their small size, low weight, and frugal engines also mean they are highly affordable to run, often returning excellent gas mileage figures. This is one of the reasons they are so popular among commuters.

What to Consider About New Subcompact Car Models Before Buying

There are quite a few options to choose from in this segment, whether they are hatchbacks, sedans, or even SUV crossovers. However, you need to carefully consider if these will really suit your daily needs - especially if you have a family. Drawing up a list of the pros and cons to review can help you make sure that one of the new subcompact car models is the right option instead of a larger compact or midsize car:

Pros

Generally well-priced and reasonable to maintain
Very fuel efficient
Small and easy to drive in traffic
Moderately practical, especially in hatchback form
Can be fun to drive, given their nippy powertrains and nimble proportions

Cons

Few powerful, premium variants - and these are generally quite expensive
Not nearly as practical as bigger options
Rear seats are almost always cramped

FAQs

What is considered a subcompact car?

Any vehicle between 157 and 165 inches and with a total interior volume of less than 99 cubic feet falls into the subcompact category, according to authorities. This spreads across segments, however, and includes hatchbacks, sedans, and even crossovers.

What’s the difference between a subcompact car and a compact?

It all comes down to size and capacity. Compacts can measure up to 187 inches in length and supply up to 109 cubic feet of combined passenger and cargo space, which is a bit more than what subcompacts offer.

What is the most reliable subcompact car?

In general, these are cars designed to do long distances wth a focus on dependability. But if you’re looking for one that is both reliable and one of the safest, then models like the Toyota C-HR, Corolla Cross, and Lexus UX are good to add to your shortlist.