Compact cars are the true everyday heroes. They offer great fuel efficiency, easy handling, and just the right amount of space for your plans, big or small. Next, you’ll find a list of some of the best compact cars to consider for your next ride.

But first, what is considered a compact car?

The term ‘compact car’ as a vehicle class is predominantly used in the US, sitting between subcompact (Honda Jazz) and mid-sized cars (Toyota Camry).

In Europe, it usually refers to ‘small family cars’. However, boundaries between categories are blurred by factors beyond size and length, including price, image, and additional accessories.

The top compact cars

7. Peugeot 208 — a focus on fuel efficiency and eco-friendliness

The Peugeot 208 is a stylish, compact hatchback that blends sleek design with practicality. Known for its sporty demeanour and efficient performance, the 208 offers a dynamic driving experience suitable for urban environments and beyond.

Pros

: striking design, high-quality interior, comfortable ride

Cons

: limited rear seat and baggage space

Retail price: new from £22,670 and €25,695 RRP*

*Indicative prices in the UK and Ireland

6. Hyundai i30 — a sleek, modern compact car favourite

The i30 is well-equipped even in its base models, offering great tech, safety features, and solid build quality, all at a competitive price.

Pros

: modern design, comfortable interior, advanced technology in the newest models

Cons

: limited rear seat space, not the most exciting to drive

Retail price: new from £24,575 and €22,645*

*Indicative prices in the UK and Ireland

5. Volkswagen Golf — a good balance of performance, comfort, and fuel efficiency

The Volkswagen Golf continues its legacy as a versatile and well-rounded family hatchback. It features a well-designed, premium-feeling cabin with intuitive controls and solid materials — impressive for a compact car.

Pros

: comfortable ride, high-quality interior

Cons

: price point, limited rear seat space

Retail price: new from £27,760 and €33,665*

*Indicative prices in the UK and Ireland

4. Skoda Scala — a spacious compact car gem

This compact gem offers an effortless driving experience and more space than many rivals. If room matters, the Scala is surprisingly spacious — for both passengers and cargo.

Pros

: spacious interior, boot space, comfortable ride

Cons

: lack of hybrid and electric options

Retail price: new from £22,740 and €25,695*

*Indicative prices in the UK and Ireland

3. Audi A3 — a stellar balance of performance, comfort, and technology

The Audi A3 sits at the higher end of the compact car market. While it comes at a higher price than the i30 and Scala, it packs even more into its modest compact car size.

Pros

: refined interior, advanced technology, balanced performance

Cons

: limited rear space, price point

Retail price: new from £30,100 and €38,215*

*Indicative prices in the UK and Ireland

2. Toyota Corolla Hatchback — a top choice for reliability

While it may not deliver the most exhilarating drive, the Corolla’s reputation for dependability makes this compact car a top pick for reliability. Drivers may not get the wow factor, but they do get a safe, predictable trip, no matter the distance.

Pros

: fuel efficiency, affordability, resale value

Cons

: modest acceleration, limited rear space

Retail price: new from £32,140 and €32,625*

*Indicative prices in the UK and Ireland

1. Skoda Fabia — a practical powerhouse

As you can imagine, a package so small (just 4108 mm in length) won’t win awards for performance and excitement. But look beyond the basic interior, and you have a practical powerhouse that provides consistently smooth rides with no surprises.

Pros

: comfortable ride quality, value for money

Cons

: conservative interior design

Retail price: new from £20,295 and €22,550*

*Indicative prices in the UK and Ireland

Save thousands: switch from owning a car to sharing one

Now you’ve seen the most popular compact cars, you know what to look for in a vehicle and what matters most. But what if we told you that you don’t have to buy a car to enjoy the perks of owning one?

It’s possible with car-sharing. With prices starting from just €0.13/minute*, you could drive a different car nearly every day!

Our recent survey proved that many see car-sharing as a viable alternative to car ownership:

⅓ of participants say they use their car less since trying car-sharing.
21% of respondents with several vehicles planned to sell at least one.

To rent a car with Bolt Drive, just create an account on the Bolt app and upload your driving licence (drivers must be over 18 years of age and have at least 6 months of driving experience).

Once you’ve found your ideal compact car on the in-app map, unlock it with the Bolt app. Inside, you’ll find the keys and fuel card for refuelling the vehicle at a petrol station.

When you reach your destination, you can park your compact car rental free of charge within designated zones.

*Disclaimer: Retail and car-sharing prices may vary by country.

Best and most reliable compact cars with pros and cons

Rent a car and Drive

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