TOP 10 Affordable Small Cars RANKING USNEWS WORLD REPORT

TOP 10 Affordable Small Cars

1. Ford Fiesta

The 2012 Ford Fiesta ranks 1 out of 39 Affordable Small Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 27 published reviews and test drives of the Ford Fiesta, and our analysis of reliability and safety data. The 2012 Ford Fiesta is a well-rounded small car that offers good driving dynamics, a comfortable interior and competitive interior tech for the class, but shoppers who need a lot of cargo space should check the competition first.
The Ford Fiesta hit the market in 2010, and for 2012, reviewers are still impressed with the 2012 Fiesta’s nearly perfect package. They say this affordable small car offers cute looks, fun color options, a quality interior, fun driving dynamics, upscale tech and good fuel economy ratings for the class.
That said, there are a few caveats consumers should know. In advertisements, Ford says the Fiesta gets 29/40 mpg city/highway. That’s with the Fiesta’s Super Fuel Economy package that’s optional on SE trims and higher, which means you pay more for good mileage. Second, while the Fiesta offers SYNC, Ford’s infotainment system, it’s constantly criticized for being difficult to use. Finally, even though the Fiesta is available as a hatchback, it is not the most utilitarian five-door in the class. That honor is reserved for the Honda Fit, which has a standard Magic Seat and up to 57.3 cubic feet of cargo space.
Reviewers say it’s hard to dislike the Ford Fiesta, but with the 2012 Hyundai Accent and 2012 Kia Rio’s transformation into worthwhile competitors with quality interiors and great fuel economy, they also say we’ll have to wait and see if the Fiesta can stay at the top of its class.

Details: Ford Fiesta

The Ford Fiesta sedan and five-door hatchback come in four trims: the base S, SE, SEL and SES. The base S is available only as a sedan, and the sedan is not available in the SES trim. The hatch isn't available in the SEL, though the two trims are nearly identical in terms of features and options.
The Ford Fiesta is in its second year of production, and there are few changes to the model. In response to critiques from the automotive press, Ford has added a center arm rest and blind spot sideview mirrors. The automaker has also added new interior style packages.

• "The Fiesta is a substantial, grown-up car. If Ford can keep pricing for the U.S. model, due here next spring, within range of the spunkier but less well-mannered Honda Fit, it will have a rare commodity: a car suited to both Facebook and the real world." -- Automobile Magazine
• “Fiesta doesn't have near the passenger room and cargo versatility of most competitors, but counters with the availability of several unexpected class features, such as heated seats and leather upholstery. If practicality is secondary to style and substance in your book, then Fiesta should be on your shopping list." -- Consumer Guide
• "Ford would be happy with best in class. And we think that's where the Fiesta may very well rank when it reaches the United States." -- Car and Driver
• "Against more familiar models--the Chevrolet Aveo, the Honda Fit and the Toyota Yaris--the Fiesta rises above this competition and every other segment." -- AutoWeek
• "Want a small, cheap, fun-to-drive, economical, practical car? Right now there's not many choices at all and none if you want to buy American. The Ford Fiesta will change that." -- Jalopnik
• "The Fiesta marks Ford's attempt to market the same basic car here that is sold in Europe at higher prices, by standardizing the basics and making optional some upscale features, including heated leather seats, automatic climate control, heated side mirrors, keyless entry and push-button engine start. Some of these features have never been seen in this price class."

Fiesta Performance - 9.3 (Excellent)

Test drivers rave about the amount of power available in the 2012 Ford Fiesta, and some even label it as the top-performing affordable small car on the market. Edmunds says, “We can say without hesitation that the 2012 Ford Fiesta provides the most rewarding drive in its class." 

Fiesta Exterior - 8.4 (Very Good)

For the most part, reviewers think the 2012 Ford Fiesta is a cute affordable small car, and of its two body styles, they prefer the Fiesta hatchback’s European flair. "The styling is a revelation, too. European superminis are a tall breed, and the 58.6-inch-tall Fiesta is no exception,” writes AutoWeek. “But Ford's internationally flavored sheetmetal somehow manages to give the Fiesta a stretched-out, long and low look. The detailing is clever, too, with the right touch of chrome highlight and the car's personality expressed in the ground-hugging and gaping front grille." 

Fiesta Interior - 8.8 (Very Good)

In a class where interiors can be small and chintzy, the 2012 Ford Fiesta impresses reviewers with enough space for tall passengers and a quality fit and finish. "Climb into the surprisingly large interior and it doesn't feel like our idea of what a small car should be either,” says Jalopnik. “It feels spacious and even, dare I say it, luxurious, an effect created by the large glass house, good packaging and high-quality materials."

Fiesta Safety - 10.0 (Excellent)

The 2012 Fiesta does well in crash tests with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. 

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2.2012 Chevrolet Cruze

Chevrolet Cruze Review - What the Auto Press Says

The 2012 Chevrolet Cruze ranks 2 out of 39 Affordable Small Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 44 published reviews and test drives of the Chevrolet Cruze, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The Chevrolet Cruze was a brand-new model for 2011, and for 2012, the most significant changes are higher fuel economy ratings and more standard features on lower trims. These changes should appeal to frugal shoppers.
For 2012, Chevrolet adds a few more perks to a vehicle that’s already one of the most popular vehicles on the market. On lower trims, features like Bluetooth, steering wheel-mounted audio controls and a USB port are now standard. Fuel-conscious shoppers will also be happy to learn that models with the 1.4-liter turbo engine will get two more miles per gallon on the highway, according to Chevrolet.
Chevrolet hasn’t released official pricing data, but the 2011 model was expensive for the class, and that trend is likely to continue for the 2012 model year. The 2011 Cruze starts at about $16,500, a price that tops what the Ford Fiesta and Honda Fit cost by about $1,400. Despite its high price, the automotive press says the 2012 Chevrolet Cruze will appeal to buyers because it does so many things well. "Chevrolet has produced a well-rounded compact sedan that easily holds its own with the best entries in this class,” says Consumer Guide, “but its biggest challenge may be overcoming the buying public's preconceived notions about its brand. If you are shopping compacts, Cruze should certainly be on your shopping list."

Details: 2012 Chevrolet Cruze

The 2012 Cruze hasn’t changed much from the 2011 model. It’s still available in LS, 1LT, 2LT, LTZ and Eco trims and looks the same, but gains more standard features on lower trims. Navigation is now optional on the Eco trim, and the 1LT and Eco trims come standard with a USB port, Bluetooth, steering wheel-mounted audio controls and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. These features were optional last year.
According to Chevrolet, all models with the 1.4-liter turbo engine and six-speed automatic get two more miles per gallon on the highway.

• “The Cruze's roominess, efficiency, quality and refinement bring Chevrolet into a whole new world of compact cars." 
• "When compared to this segment's traditional leaders, the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla, the Cruze is fully competitive (or even better) in terms of design and driving dynamics."
• "Unless you’re determined to downsize, the LTZ doesn’t seem distinctive enough to rationalize its midsize price tag, not when you could have a larger Malibu for about the same money. But if you keep the price closer to $20,000, the Cruze is worth a second look, even if a first glance doesn’t stop you in your tracks." 
• "The Chevrolet Cruze doesn't have the time-tested records of the Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla and therefore doesn't have as high a resale value."

Cruze Performance - 8.5 (Very Good)

The 2012 Chevrolet Cruze isn’t the most fun-to-drive affordable small car, but AutoWeek says, "It's not a bad little driver, either, and the price is good. An econobox that is fun(ish) to drive is rare. This is one of them."

Cruze Exterior - 7.3 (Good)

Some automotive journalists agree with Edmunds, who says that the 2012 Chevrolet Cruze’s "restrained styling will be slayed by the all-new Ford Focus." 

Cruze Interior - 8.5 (Very Good)

As more high-quality, affordable small cars enter the market, it’s hard for models to stand out. But with a spacious interior, more available features on lower trims and a construction that mirrors more upscale cars, the automotive press agrees that the 2012 Chevrolet Cruze shines as one of the nicest models in the class. 

Cruze Safety - 10.0 (Excellent)

The 2012 Cruze does very well in tests with the federal government and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

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2.Chevrolet Sonic

Chevrolet Sonic Review - What the Auto Press Says

The 2012 Chevrolet Sonic ranks 2 out of 39 Affordable Small Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 21 published reviews and test drives of the Chevrolet Sonic, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The Chevrolet Sonic is an all-new small car that replaces the Chevrolet Aveo, and compared to the outdated and poor-performing Aveo, the automotive press is very pleased with the Sonic.
The Chevrolet Sonic may remind you of Sonic the Hedgehog, a character in a Sega video game series from the ’90s, but this new small car from Chevrolet has little in common with a small, angry animal. The industry is quite excited about the debut of the Sonic because it has more going for it than the Chevrolet Aveo, the model it replaces.
How has Chevrolet taken the Sonic to the next level? Like competitors, the Sonic is available as a hatchback and sedan. It gets the same four-cylinder engines as the Chevrolet Cruze: a 1.4-liter turbocharged and 1.8-liter normally aspirated engine. These engines aren’t the most powerful in the class, but reviewers are very pleased with the Sonic’s performance, saying it corners just as well as the Ford Fiesta and Honda Fit, if not better. Chevrolet also upped the interior features on the Sonic, giving it a standard radio, auxiliary input jack, air conditioning and a lot more safety features than the outgoing Aveo. Amenities like leatherette seats, a sunroof, USB port and heated front seats are optional. Outside, reviewers say the exterior of the Sonic is more aggressive and sportier than its predecessor.
So far, the industry thinks the Sonic has a lot going for it, but some reviewers are pessimistic about the Sonic’s future, and say that it may lose its shine quickly. With affordable small cars like the Hyundai Elantra and Chevrolet Cruze on the market with interiors that are borderline upscale, they fear the Chevrolet Sonic could be left in the dust.

Details: 2012 Chevrolet Sonic

The 2012 Sonic is an all-new model from Chevrolet that replaces the Chevrolet Aveo and has the same engines as the well-liked Chevrolet Cruze. The Sonic also gets a number of optional interior features like heated front seats, remote start and a sunroof. The Sonic’s standard features are basic, but typical for the class. It gets air conditioning, AM/FM radio and an auxiliary input jack.
The Sonic sedan starts at $13,735, while the hatchback costs $900 more.

• "From an engineering and performance standpoint, the newest Chevy delivers more than enough to let us almost forget that the Aveo ever happened. And for buyers who consider a car's birthplace an important factor, the 2012 Sonic is the only car in the segment built in the United States."
• "Chevy is loading up the Sonic with a litany of features and safety equipment." 
• "To keep it simple, the Sonic is a well-designed, good-looking, fun-to-drive small car, The General’s anti-Fiesta and Fit-fighter." 
• "Chassis stiffness was one of the GM engineers' main goals, and they met it. For such a small, inexpensive car, the Sonic feels substantial." 
• "A slinkier shape and a sexier name for the new baby Chevy."

Sonic Performance - 8.4 (Very Good)

A few automotive journalists have tested the Chevrolet Sonic, and so far, they’re very pleased with its 135-horsepower 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine, and even say it may top the engines in the Ford Fiesta and Honda Fit. 

Sonic Exterior - 8.0 (Very Good)

The automotive industry has taken a good look at the Chevrolet Sonic, and they’re impressed with the updates. “How’s it look? A huge improvement,” says The New York Times. “The sedan is more aggressive than its milquetoast predecessor. The hatch will compete nicely in looks with the Fiesta and lacks the busy looks of the Fit." 

Sonic Interior - 8.8 (Very Good)

Though it lacks the Kia Forte’s standard Bluetooth and USB port, the 2012 Chevrolet Sonic’s comfortable back row and good build quality make it class-competitive. One thing the Sonic isn’t called is borderline luxurious. That’s an honor reserved for the Chevrolet Cruze and Hyundai Elantra. 

Sonic Safety - 10.0 (Excellent)

Only the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has tested the 2012 Chevrolet Sonic, and names it a "Top Safety Pick." 

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• 2.Ford Focus

  Ford Focus Review - What the Auto Press Says

  The 2012 Ford Focus ranks 2 out of 39 Affordable Small Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 24 published reviews and test drives of the Ford Focus, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
  The Ford Focus is completely redesigned for the 2012 model year, and reviewers love the updates. Not only are the Focus’s exterior and interior changes impressive, but it’s also more fun to drive than the previous generation.
  The Ford Focus was popular and well-liked when it debuted in 2000, but over time the competition improved, and the Focus lost its appeal.
  Now, eleven years later, Ford has completely redesigned the Focus in hopes that it will regain its reputation as a top choice among affordable small cars. With well-rounded competitors like the Chevrolet Cruze, Mazda3 and Honda Fit, Ford has revamped the Focus from the inside out to take on the competition. The interior was one of the first things to change, now featuring more high tech options. "The company is loading the Focus with all manner of optional niceties,” says Edmunds, “such as keyless entry and ignition, a rearview camera, a semi-automatic parallel parking system and the new MyFord ‘driver connect’ technology which reconfigures information and entertainment operation with five-way touchpads on the steering-wheel spokes and, with high-end versions, adds an 8-inch touch screen display."
  The 2012 Focus also gets MyKey and MyFord, two features that are available on other models like the Ford Edge. MyFord integrates entertainment, navigation and communication into a touch screen console. MyKey is a safety feature that restricts vehicle speed and stereo volume while your teen drives.
  The industry is also excited about the Focus’s standard torque vectoring control – a first for a car in this class. Torque vectoring control increases vehicle stability by adding brake force to wheels on one side during turns, and is a great feature for driving enthusiasts.
  The Focus also got a lot of exterior updates, and the industry is very pleased with the changes. The newest Focus looks sportier and more aggressive than older models and falls in line with the Honda Fit and Ford Fiesta.
  Reviewers love the changes on the new Ford Focus, but the most important question is if the Focus can survive when the excitement surrounding its redesign fades. Right now, it’s hard to tell. Reviewers think Ford has produced a great car, but there are a lot of other affordable small cars on the market – the Honda Fit, the Chevrolet Cruze and Hyundai Elantra – that are just as good and outshine the 2012 Focus in terms of affordability, utility and available features. If you’re considering the Focus, it’s a good idea check the competition first.
  Other Cars to Consider
  The 2012 Ford Focus is facing some stiff competition. Among affordable hatchbacks, there’s the Honda Fit, which is regarded as one of the roomiest and most utilitarian hatches on the market. The Fit is also about $3,000 cheaper than the Focus hatch and about $1,200 cheaper than the Focus sedan. Combined, it’s utility and value earned it our Best Hatchback for the Money award. If you’re deciding between the two, the Honda Fit is your best bet. It is one of the best combinations of affordability and utility.
  Shoppers who prefer the Focus sedan should check out the Chevrolet Cruze and the Mazda3. Budget-minded consumers that value performance should test drive the Mazda3, which is also available as a five-door hatchback. It’s also fun to drive and heaper than the Focus. But, if you want a roomy and stylish sedan, check out the Chevrolet Cruze. Like the Focus and Fiesta, it has high fuel economy that brings highway fuel economy ratings to 40 mpg. It’s also has comfortable seating for five. To top it off, the Cruze has great safety ratings. It’s an insurance industry “2011 Top Safety Pick.”
  Details: 2012 Ford Focus
  Ford has redesigned the Focus for the 2012 model year. The new Focus is available as a sedan or hatchback. The sedan starts at just over $16,000 and comes with basics like an audio system with an AM/FM radio, single-disc CD player and MP3 capability, an auxiliary input jack and a tilt and telescopic steering wheel. The sedan is available in four trim levels: S, SE, SEL and Titanium. The five-door hatchback starts around $18,800 and includes a few more standard features like MyKey. The hatchback comes in three trims: SE, SEL and Titanium.
  All models receive a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, torque vectoring control and airbags with adaptive venting technology that reduce pressure for smaller occupants. A partial zero-emission vehicle (PZEV) engine is also available in PZEV states.
  
• "Like the new Fiesta, the Focus has been plucked straight from the European model -- a car that, unlike our Focus, hasn't been left for dead by the engineering team for a decade. Like the smaller Fiesta, the Focus is edgy, sporty, different, and decidedly European. Even though it's been tweaked and tuned for the U.S.-market, much of that was done by teams overseas. So it's the real deal, replete with the fully independent rear suspension, and that, of course, means it's the handler of the class."
• "The Focus has the makings of a runaway hit. It's a bit smaller inside than its recently released competitors, but is otherwise a well-rounded package, with styling challenged only by the Elantra and dynamics that can take on anything in the compact class."
• "And with available goodies like MyFord Touch and a hatchback body style, the Focus also delivers a little extra usability than either of those offerings. If you're willing to give up a few miles per gallon for a few extra giggles per apex, it's hard to do better than the Focus."

Focus Performance - 8.4 (Very Good)

In all, reviewers don’t call the 2012 Ford Focus’s performance ground-breaking, but they do say it’s a more fun to drive than earlier generations, especially around corners. For a better performer, reviewers suggest the Mazda3. 

Focus Exterior - 8.5 (Very Good)

Hands down, reviewers have fallen in love with the 2012 Ford Focus’s exterior styling. “The new Focus is handsome," 

Focus Interior - 7.4 (Good)

These days, affordable small cars offer comfortable, utilitarian interiors that offer tech features you’d see in a more expensive car at an affordable price. The 2012 Ford Focus tries to stand out, but Automobile Magazine doesn’t think it succeeds. "Inside, the Focus offers up an interior that, while nice, isn't going to redefine what buyers have come to expect from small cars in America." 

Focus Safety - 10.0 (Excellent)

While the federal government and the insurance industry haven’t tested the 2012 Ford Focus, it does come with numerous safety features and MyKey, restricts speed and stereo volume while young drivers are behind the wheel. 

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 2.Mazda3

Mazda3 Review - What the Auto Press Says

The 2012 Mazda3 ranks 2 out of 39 Affordable Small Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 47 published reviews and test drives of the Mazda3, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
If you want great performance and gas mileage, reviewers say the 2012 Mazda3 has both. But if you want ample cargo and passenger space, competitors have more.
Back in the day, many speedy small cars didn’t have the highest fuel economy ratings in the class. The Mazda3 was one of them, but this year, it is breaking that mold with the introduction of its new Skyactiv engine that is one of the most fuel-efficient in the class. Test drivers add that its great fuel economy ratings don’t mean a compromise in performance.
While reviewers say that the 2012 Mazda3 has near-perfect performance for the class, they are disappointed that its union of efficiency and power isn’t paired with an increase in passenger and cargo space. If the Mazda3 could gain bragging rights as the most utilitarian, most efficient and most powerful car in the class, the automotive press thinks the Mazda3 would be even greater than it already is.

Other Cars to Consider

There are few small cars in the class that can match the Mazda3’s performance, but the Volkswagen Golf can. The Golf is available as a two- or four-door hatchback, and has less cargo space than the Mazda3 hatchback. But the Golf is still fun to drive even though it’s smaller. If you want a Golf with good fuel economy, you’ll have to option for the diesel engine that reviewers say is just as refined as the base engine.
If you want more passenger and cargo space, you’ll have to give up some of the Mazda3’s agility. The Chevrolet Cruze has good performance and plenty of passenger and trunk space compared with the Mazda3 sedan. The Cruze also has an Eco model with fuel economy ratings that are comparable with Mazda’s new engine.

Details: Mazda3

The 2012 Mazda3 is available in sedan and hatchback form. The sedan is available in five trims: i SV, i Sport, i Touring, i Grand Touring and s Grand Touring. The hatchback is only available in Touring and Grand Touring models.
See the full list of 2012 Mazda3 specs.

• "Mazda is to be congratulated for bumping mileage up and still making cars that are fun to drive." -- AutoWeek
• "It's little wonder why the Mazda 3 is the brand's best-selling car. It boasts a stable ride, solid cabin appointments, a versatile hatchback body style, and a fun-to-drive character unmatched by most like-priced rivals of any size." -- Consumer Guide
• "The Mazda 3 has traditionally been considered somewhat of a connoisseurs' choice among compact sedans. With its agile handling, responsive engines and generous features list, the 3 is the compact car that we editors at Edmunds.com not only most frequently recommend to others, but also have, in some cases, purchased for our families." -- Edmunds

Mazda3 Performance - 8.9 (Very Good)

Test drivers have nothing but good things to say about performance from the 2012 Mazda3, calling its powertrain one of the best in the class.  

Mazda3 Exterior - 5.6 (Mediocre)

The automotive press has gotten used to the Mazda3’s smiling front grille, but some shoppers may dislike the 2012 Mazda3’s smirk. See 2012 Mazda3 photos. 

Mazda3 Interior - 7.9 (Good)

Reviewers don’t give the 2012 Mazda3’s interior the same glowing reviews they give the powertrain.

Mazda3 Safety - 10.0 (Excellent)

Only the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has tested the 2012 Mazda3, and names it an IIHS Top Safety Pick. 

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 6.Honda Fit

Honda Fit Review - What the Auto Press Says

The 2012 Honda Fit ranks 6 out of 39 Affordable Small Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 37 published reviews and test drives of the Honda Fit, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The automotive press says the 2012 Honda Fit is a great choice because it can tackle nearly anything your family throws at it with its peppy engine and ample interior space.
Going for a small car often means compromising on space, but that’s not the case with the 2012 Honda Fit. The Fit has a Magic Seat that lets you haul anything from a bike to a tall plant in the back seat, and that’s in addition to the space in the rear cargo area. Even with the rear seats up, reviewers say they’re amazed that the Honda Fit has so much cargo space.
The 2012 Honda Fit does have some flaws. Test drivers are disappointed that the front seats aren’t height-adjustable, and find that taller passengers will need more leg space. And while many reviewers think the base engine will be plenty powerful for most drivers, some say the Honda Fit struggles uphill and needs an extra boost on the highway.
But overall, test drivers think these quirks will be minor details for shoppers in this class because they’re looking for something affordable and fuel-efficient that can carry people comfortably, haul sports equipment or move their child into their college dorm.

Other Cars to Consider:

For an affordable small car with a lot of interior space, consider the Hyundai Elantra, which is one of the roomiest models in the class. It has spacious seating for five and lots of trunk space. When comparably equipped with features like Bluetooth and a USB port, the Elantra is just a few hundred dollars more than the Fit.
No hatchback offers as much space as the Honda Fit, but there are models that are more fun to drive. Reviewers say the Volkswagen Golf is a hoot to drive and has a high-quality interior. You will, however, pay more for the Golf’s peppy engine, and you’ll get less interior space.

Details: 2012 Honda Fit

The Fit is available in three trims: Base, Sport and Sport with navigation. The most significant addition for 2012 is Bluetooth, which comes with the Sport models.
The Honda Fit hasn’t change much in the past few years, so this review uses test drives of earlier Fit models.

• "While prices seem steep for the class, Fit comes very well equipped. This is a subcompact in name and exterior size only; it's really a small wagon that challenges some compact SUVs for room while getting significantly better fuel economy. Fit deserves a top spot on your shopping list, but our nod goes to the cheaper, yet no less versatile, Base model." -- Consumer Guide
• "Although the Fit is priced a bit higher than most of its competitors, Honda offers a substantial number of standard features, plus one attribute you won't find on any option list: Outstanding resale value." -- Kelley Blue Book

Fit Performance - 8.3 (Very Good)

The automotive press likes that the 2012 Honda Fit is both fun to drive and practical. 

Fit Exterior - 7.8 (Good)

The 2012 Honda Fit has a polarizing look. Some reviewers think it’s ugly, while others say it’s eye-catching.  

Fit Interior - 9.0 (Excellent)

With exceptionally comfortable rear seats and a ton of storage space, the automotive press agrees that no hatchback beats the practicality of the 2012 Honda Fit.

Fit Safety - NA

The federal government and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety have not provided detailed crash test data for the 2012 Honda Fit yet. 

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7.Hyundai Elantra

Hyundai Elantra Review - What the Auto Press Says

The 2012 Hyundai Elantra ranks 7 out of 39 Affordable Small Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 23 published reviews and test drives of the Hyundai Elantra, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The high praises the 2011 Hyundai Elantra received carry over into the 2012 model year. The automotive press still says the Elantra is an affordable small car with upscale amenities that will make others think you paid more for it than you actually did.
The press isn’t worried about whether or not the Elantra will lose its new-car sparkle now that the Ford Focus, Kia Forte and Chevrolet Cruze are in the mix. One reason the Elantra can hold its ground is because it has a stylish exterior that makes the Cruze and Forte look bland. In addition to stand-out exterior styling, the Elantra Limited offers heated leather seats in the rear row, a feature that isn’t available on most upscale sedans. Test drivers appreciated this option last year, and are still impressed with it this go-around.
Most members of the automotive press agree that the 2012 Hyundai Elantra outshines many of its competitors because it’s well-rounded. For example, the Elantra has high fuel economy ratings of 29/40 mpg city/highway, and unlike the Ford Fiesta, Ford Focus and Chevrolet Cruze, shoppers don’t need to upgrade to higher trims to get those figures. Inside, the Elantra offers enough cabin and trunk space to compete with some midsize sedans, a navigation system that’s fast and easy to use and more standard features than other affordable small cars like the 2012 Honda Civic.
The Elantra is a good value, but no reviewers label the Elantra fun-to-drive like the Mazda3 or Honda Fit. But they do say the 2012 Hyundai Elantra makes a great daily driver. After looking at all these qualities, many members of the automotive press say the Elantra is one of the best affordable small cars on the market. Edmunds agrees, and says, "Thanks to head-turning styling, a fuel-efficient engine and a long list of standard safety features and upscale options, the 2012 Hyundai Elantra is a top pick for a small sedan."
Other Cars to Consider
Reviewers compare the 2012 Hyundai Elantra to the Honda Civic, Chevrolet Cruze and Kia Forte, all of which are very similar to the Elantra in terms of daily driving capabilities.
The Honda Civic was redesigned for the 2012 model year, but reviewers don’t endorse this model as much as they have in the past because it doesn’t push the envelope in any way. This consumer favorite doesn’t come standard with air conditioning or any kind of radio or CD player, but it does have Eco Assist, which helps you drive frugally. To get more features on the 2012 Civic, you have to upgrade to the nearly $18,000 LX trim, which adds a radio, CD player, USB audio interface, air conditioning, cruise control, steering wheel-mounted controls and auxiliary input jack.
The Kia Forte, however, challenges the Elantra in terms of standard interior features and price. The base sedan starts at about $15,000, compared to the Elantra’s nearly $16,500 base price, and has satellite radio, USB and auxiliary input jacks, Bluetooth and steering wheel-mounted audio controls. It also has a powertrain warranty that lasts for 10 years or 100,000 miles that matches the Elantra’s. The Forte does have more standard features, which sets it apart, and its conservative styling will appeal to shoppers who dislike the Elantra’s modern design.

Details: 2012 Hyundai Elantra

The Hyundai Elantra was completely redesigned for the 2011 model year, and little has changed for 2012. Hyundai improved horn sound, calibrated the steering, added fog lights to the GLS Preferred Package and is offering more color options and an optional roadside assistance kit. The most significant update is the addition of Hyundai’s Active Eco System that comes on all Elantra models with an automatic transmission. Hyundai says this system improves fuel economy by 7 percent, but that claim hasn’t been independently tested.
The 2012 Elantra is more expensive than the 2011 model, which starts at $14,945. The 2012 model starts at about $16,450 for the GLS trim with a manual transmission. Adding an automatic transmission increases the price by $1,000, and upgrading to the Limited trim, which adds leather seats and a tilt and telescopic steering wheel, raises the price to $20,445.

• "Hyundai's Elantra sedan follows the lead of the larger Sonata with attractive styling and good fuel economy. While it might not stand out in any one area, this compact car does most everything well. That makes for a compelling package in this highly competitive class." -- Consumer Guide
• "With seating for up to five, the Elantra's looks and fuel efficiency – it's  rated at 40 mpg on the highway – make it a compelling entrant in the segment." -- Cars.com
• "Howlin' enthusiasts might want a more sporty Mazda 3 or a Civic, but the majority of buyers in this segment aren't enthusiasts. For them, Hyundai has offered a solid option to consider in the class, loaded with available features such as a seven-inch navigation screen, 360-watt premium audio and proximity entry key." -- AutoWeek
• "You won't mistake the Elantra for a Volkswagen GTI or a BMW 3-series from behind the wheel, but as a practical commuter, there's not much to complain about. And that's what this type of car is about - comfortable, economical, and practical. Right now, it's without question at the top of its class, and until the next Ford Focus goes on sale, we have no doubt that it'll remain there." -- Automobile Magazine

Elantra Performance - 8.4 (Very Good)

If you want a hybrid-like fuel economy, but don’t want to fork over extra cash to get it, reviewers recommend the 2012 Hyundai Elantra, which gets 29/40 mpg city/highway. And according to Cars.com, the Elantra doesn’t drive like an appliance because “gas mileage doesn't come at the expense of drivability." 

Elantra Exterior - 9.1 (Excellent)

Hyundai pairs great fuel economy with a stylish exterior that may blow attractive, but conventional-looking class favorites like the Honda Civic and Chevrolet Cruze out of the water. 

Elantra Interior - 8.3 (Very Good)

The 2012 Hyundai Elantra’s interior rivals the Chevrolet Cruze and Ford Fiesta’s. Like these cars, the Elantra offers comfort, affordability and numerous tech features, but it also adds one head turner to the list: optional heated leather seats in the back row. "Overall materials quality isn't quite best-in-class (that award goes to the Ford Focus),” says Edmunds, “but the Elantra's cabin isn't bargain-basement either. The Elantra can also be loaded up with the sort of comfort and electronics features indicative of a luxury car." 

Elantra Safety - NA

The federal government and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety have not tested the 2012 Hyundai Elantra, but the 2011 model is an IIHS Top Safety Pick. 

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 8.Kia forte

Kia Forte Review - What the Auto Press Says

The 2012 Kia Forte ranks 8 out of 39 Affordable Small Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 31 published reviews and test drives of the Kia Forte, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
Other than an engine that doesn’t pack a punch, reviewers say there is little they don’t like about the 2012 Kia Forte.
More than anything else, reviewers appreciate the 2012 Forte’s versatility and practicality that will appeal to a range of shoppers. The Kia Forte is available in three body styles (sedan, coupe and hatchback), has an interior that’s comfortable for four (five is a squeeze) and has good fuel economy. Add to that a standard features list that includes Bluetooth, satellite radio and a USB port for an iPod, and reviewers say the 2012 Kia Forte is one of the best options on the market for shoppers who want a quality car that won’t break the bank.
But the 2012 Forte won’t impress budding race car drivers because even the sport-tuned SX trim is a bore. Reviewers suggest shoppers check out the Mazda3 and Ford Focus, which are significantly more fun to drive, but say shoppers who want a small car with a low price and a lot of standard features should stick with the Forte.
Other Cars to Consider
For a car that’s more fun to drive than the the sporty Kia Forte SX trim, consider the Mazda3, which is one of the most engaging cars in the class. Fuel economy averages on the base Mazda3 are slightly lower than the Forte, and there is less trunk space, but if you’re willing to exchange a few miles per gallon and some cubic feet for more power, the Mazda3 could be the perfect fit.
Reviewers like that shoppers have a hatchback option in the 2012 Kia Forte, but if you’re considering the hatchback because it has more cargo space than the Forte sedan and coupe, the Honda Fit might be right up your alley. Not only is it the roomiest hatchback in the class, but it is also the most utilitarian thanks to seats that flip different ways to accommodate long and tall items. To top it off, the Honda Fit is also less expensive than the Forte hatchback (though it doesn’t have as many standard features) and has better performance.
Details: 2012 Kia Forte
The 2012 Kia Forte comes in three body styles: sedan, coupe and hatchback. The sedan is available in LX, EX and SX trims, while the hatchback and coupe are only available in the highest two trims. For 2012, the hatchback is not available with a manual transmission and the EX gains a tilt and telescopic steering wheel.
See the full list of 2012 Kia Forte specs.

• "Kia's compact car sports excellent passenger and cargo accommodations and lots of features for the money. The availability of a hatchback body style provides additional versatility. No Forte is as much fun to drive as a Ford Focus or Mazda 3 nor is it as refined as a Chevrolet Cruze or Hyundai Elantra. However, this Kia can cost less when comparable equipped. Couple that with Kia's strong warranty, and you get a solid, sporty compact car." -- Consumer Guide
• "This compact is more than just a piece of transportation. It will take you from point A to B in comfort and style." -- The Detroit News
• "In our minds, we had equated ‘cheap’ with, well, cheap. But after putting nearly 500 miles on the Forte EX, which sits in the middle of the Forte line, we changed our stereotypical understanding of ‘cheap’ to a more appropriate ‘inexpensive.’ In this instance, that meant remarkable value." -- The Washington Post

Forte Performance - 7.7 (Good)

The 2012 Kia Forte isn’t for drivers who want to spice up their daily commute with a peppy, refined engine, but it is for drivers who need something fuel-efficient and practical. 

Forte Exterior - 8.7 (Very Good)

Available as a sedan, coupe and hatchback, the automotive press not only thinks the 2012 Kia Forte is versatile, but that it’s also an attractive and modern small car. See 2012 Kia Forte photos. 

Forte Interior - 8.4 (Very Good)

The 2012 Kia Forte comes well-equipped with high-quality materials. It has a good amount of trunk and passenger space, but competitors like the Hyundai Elantra and Chevrolet Cruze have more of both.  

Forte Safety - NA

Only the federal government has tested the 2012 Kia Forte so far, and gives it an overall score of four out of five stars.

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9.FIAT 500

FIAT 500 Review - What the Auto Press Says

The 2012 FIAT 500 ranks 9 out of 39 Affordable Small Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 11 published reviews and test drives of the FIAT 500, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
With its great handling, cutesy exterior, and low price, test drivers say the 2012 FIAT 500 is set to do battle with affordable small cars like the Mini Cooper.
The 2012 FIAT 500 is one of few European cars that ventured to the United States in hopes of making a way for itself. So far, the automotive press has welcomed this Italian mini car with open arms.
The FIAT 500 has a cute, petite exterior that makes it hard to dislike. It only produces 101 horsepower, but the FIAT’s small size makes it fun to drive. Another bonus is affordability. $15,500 may seem like a lot for such a tiny car, but the 500 is about $4,600 less than the base Mini Cooper. Additionally, the FIAT 500 interior boasts more cargo room. That means shoppers who’ve always wanted a peppy mini car with some utilitarian qualities, but can’t afford for the Cooper, can spring for the FIAT 500.
Reviewers say the FIAT 500 is fun to drive, but don’t think its success is assured. The 500 is much smaller than Americans are used to, which means many shoppers will be intimidated by its diminutive backseat. Additionally, the FIAT 500’s performance isn’t ideal for the highway – a characteristic Americans often look for in a vehicle. But perhaps the biggest hurdle is competition. There’s already one successful European subcompact on the market – the Mini Cooper – and the industry isn’t quite sure if the hype surrounding the 500’s debut is enough for FIAT to take some of Mini’s sales and establish a reputation for itself.

Other Cars to Consider

The FIAT 500’s most obvious competitor is the Mini Cooper, which has a more powerful engine, making it zippier and more fun to drive. The Cooper’s performance ranks at the top of the class, but there are two areas where the 500 beats the Cooper: cargo space and price. The Cooper has 24 cubic feet with the rear seats folded – the FIAT has 30. Starting at $20,100, the Cooper is also more expensive than the top-of-the-line FIAT 500 Lounge, and also takes premium gasoline. At that rate, you might as well turn to the Volkswagen Golf, which is just as speedy, has a maximum cargo capacity of 46.0 cubes and costs $2,300 less than the base Cooper.
If the Mini costs too much and you aren’t sold on the FIAT’s “large” maximum cargo capacity, turn to the Mazda2. Test drivers think it’s just as zippy as the FIAT 500. Plus, the 2 has better fuel economy ratings and larger interior dimensions for less money. The Mazda2 gets 29/35 mpg city/highway, but also features a nice interior with a comfortable front row, decent seating for adults in the rear row, four doors and 13.3 cubic feet of space with all seats in use. You get all of that for around $14,200 – roughly $1,300 less than the FIAT 500.
If these small cars don’t meet your needs because they’re too tiny, check out the Honda Fit and the Ford Fiesta, two practical hatchbacks that are both utilitarian and affordable. You can buy the base Fiesta and Fit for a few hundred dollars less than the 500.

Details: 2011 FIAT 500

The FIAT 500 comes in three trims: Pop, Sport and Lounge. Pop and Sport trims come with a five speed manual transmission, and start at $15,500 and $17,500, respectively. The Lounge trim cost nearly $20,000 because it has more features.

• "But Fiat has built a legitimate Mini alternative for thousands less, and shoppers willing to trade absolute utility for creative styling and driving fun should give the car a try. For a brand looking to get back into a market it left 27 years ago, that could signal as good a start as any." -- Cars.com
• "All of this may sound like I'm damning the 500 with faint praise, which is not my intention. I found the car perfectly able, cleverly designed with fun touches, like the round headrests, and enjoyable to drive. It neither wowed me nor left me flat." -- Popular Mechanics
• "In other words, it's a stylish car that won't grow tiresome once the novelty has worn off. At least that's how it feels so far." -- Edmunds

500 Performance - 8.4 (Very Good)

Despite its 101 horsepower, the FIAT 500 isn’t pokey. In fact, it has so much pep that the automotive press compares it to the Mini Cooper and Mazda2. “The 500 does take a page from the Mini playbook in its zippy performance, fun-to-drive character, and go-cart handling, although it is not quite as sporty overall as the British car," says Automobile Magazine. 

500 Exterior - 9.1 (Excellent)

The automotive industry thinks the 2012 FIAT 500 is cutesy, just like the original model that ended production in the seventies. “The original 500 is extremely attractive, it would only be cuter with dimples, and brings to mind two actresses named Audrey Hepburn and Tatou,” says Popular Mechanics. “The remake has a similar appeal, albeit a slightly more masculine one, thanks to its wide stance, bulbous silhouette and bug-eye headlights."  

500 Interior - 6.9 (Mediocre)

Like the Mini Cooper and the Smart Fortwo, the 2012 FIAT 500’s interior dimensions are small, but surprisingly, many reviewers are pleased with the amount of available space.

500 Safety - 10.0 (Excellent)

Because the 2012 FIAT 500 is a new model, the federal government and the insurance industry have not yet tested it.

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10.volkswagen golf

Volkswagen Golf Review - What the Auto Press Says

The 2012 Volkswagen Golf ranks 9 out of 39 Affordable Small Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 23 published reviews and test drives of the Volkswagen Golf, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
Reviewers say 2012 Volkswagen Golf is fun to drive thanks to its small frame and German engineering, but they wish it had more standard features and an affordable base price.
The 2012 Volkswagen Golf stands out among affordable small cars for its high-quality interior, available diesel engine and German roots, but the Golf also stands out because it is one of the most expensive cars in its class. Reviewers also find that the Golf does not come well-equipped for the price, and many features are only available with trim upgrades.
Thanks to its high price, reviewers are quick to suggest competitors like the Mazda3 that offer a better balance of price, quality, fuel efficiency and performance. But in the end, automotive editors are attached to the Volkswagen Golf because it’s a great option for shoppers looking for a European car with good performance and a quality interior.
Other Cars to Consider
If price isn’t an issue, consider the Mini Cooper. It’s smaller than the Volkswagen Golf and has higher fuel economy ratings. Performance is comparable with the Golf, but you should know that the Cooper uses premium gas. But with better fuel economy, the Mini Cooper is actually less expensive to keep fueled.
The Golf TDI (Turbocharged Direct Injection) is one of the most expensive cars in the class. However, it’s the only diesel hatchback, so hybrids are the only other green alternatives. The Honda CR-Z is a good car to consider because this two-door sporty hybrid gets some of the highest fuel economy ratings in the class.
Details: 2012 Volkswagen Golf
Aside from some adjustments to the interior features list, the Volkswagen Golf is largely unchanged for 2012. Because Golf hasn’t changed much, this review uses test drives from earlier models.

• "The Volkswagen Golf injects a fun-to-drive, refined, and fairly roomy dose of sportiness into the compact-car class. The TDI's spunky diesel engine, along with the sport suspension, ups the fun factor, but also keeps things frugal with its stellar fuel-economy figures." -- Consumer Guide
• "Even the entry-level Golf continues to offer hatchback practicality, refined driving dynamics, and luxury-car levels of interior quality. It’s the master of a budget-conscious segment whose other entrants ask buyers to compromise on refinement, fun, or both." -- Car and Driver
• "If you don't choke on the price, the new Golf has plenty to offer, especially when it comes to vehicle dynamics and utility.” -- Autoblog

Golf Performance - 8.5 (Very Good)

Despite the base model’s poor fuel economy and the diesel trim’s high price tag, reviewers love the performance capabilities of the 2012 Volkswagen Golf. 

Golf Exterior - 8.4 (Very Good)

The 2012 Volkswagen Golf doesn’t have an eccentric exterior, but reviewers like that it maintains the German automaker’s reputation for simple, upscale designs.  

Golf Interior - 8.5 (Very Good)

Reviewers call the 2012 Volkswagen Golf’s interior high-quality and spacious, but they wish it came with more standard interior features. 

Golf Safety - NA

The federal government and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety have not done complete tests on the 2012 Volkswagen Golf yet.

Golf Reliability - NA

Volkswagen covers the 2012 Golf with a three-year/36,000 mile new vehicle limited warranty and a five-year/60,000 mile powertrain warranty.

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