2014 Best Buys: Sub-Compacts

As the cars of choice for people on a tight budget or those looking for a second vehicle, sub-compacts are an economical way of getting from point A to point B. How many of us started our careers as car owners with a Suzuki Swift, Toyota Echo or Volkswagen Fox!

Today’s sub-compacts include the Chevrolet Sonic, Ford Fiesta, Honda Fit, Hyundai Accent, Kia Rio, Mazda2, Nissan Versa and Toyota Yaris. There are even some hybrids and electric vehicles in the bunch, such as the Mitsubishi i-MiEV and Toyota Prius C.

Over the years, sub-compacts have become oddly refined, to the point that they almost make you feel like you’re driving a compact. In fact, this is precisely what makes the Honda Fit the best pick. It is by far the most comfortable in the group, in addition to being the most spacious and pleasant to drive. Its downsides, however, include poor soundproofing and a fairly high purchase price, though the fact that it has one of the best resale values in the category helps make up for it.

The Kia Rio takes second place, while its cousin the Hyundai Accent takes third. Even though these cars are essentially identical (same platform, same mechanics), Kia’s engineers managed to make their small car a little more fun to drive. It’s the sort of detail that our journalists tend to notice!

See all of the Car Guide’s best buys