The days when buying a small car meant settling for a rudimentary motoring experience, are thankfully long gone. Large-scale technological and engineering innovation has occurred throughout the automotive industry, with all segments beneficiaries. Of course, there is no denying much of this development has been possible thanks to the flagship, high-ticket-price models. Cars such as the Mercedes-Benz S Class, Audi A8, and Range Rover are packed high with cutting-edge technologies. Over time, the advancements have trickled down to other models within the line-ups.
There is another explanation for the investment into smaller cars, demand has simply dictated supply. With increasing environmental awareness and ever more congested roads, many people do not want to get behind the wheel of tank-like SUVs. Similarly, all this advancement has come at a cost and larger cars are a significant outlay, unaffordable to many. Here are 10 small new cars that will give you that big car feeling, but in a compact package.
10/10 Audi A3
Cars from Audi are well known for their premium and luxurious cabins. The A3 is no exception, and depending on the specification level, can become something truly special. Expensive, high-end Hi-Fi systems were once the preserve of large luxury vehicles. Times have now changed, and even relatively small cars such as the A3 are offered with a sublime Bang & Olufsen setup. The powerful audio system can produce a massive 680 watts from its 15-speaker configuration.
The model range starts at $35,400 and is an excellent choice for those concerned about safety. The A3 has been awarded a Top Safety Pick +, and the optional Quattro all-wheel drive system should ensure stability.
9/10 BMW 2 Series
The BMW 2 Series is the most compact coupe within the brand’s lineup. The model proves big isn’t always better, and provides a compelling blend of power, performance, and refinement. There are several engines on offer, with the M240i being a particularly spicy option, producing 382 hp. The 0-60 mph sprint takes just 4.1 seconds.
The infotainment offering is based around a large and futuristic 14.9-inch central information display. Similarly, the instrument cluster is displayed on a minimalist 12.3-inch curved screen.
8/10 Volkswagen Golf GTI And R
A firm favorite among European drivers, the compact Volkswagen Golf is a desirable vehicle. In the US market, gearheads can opt for either the powerful “GTI” or Golf “R” which are both great driver’s cars. The GTI is the most affordable of the two and starts at $31,625.
Powering the GTI, is a turbocharged, 241 hp, 2.0 liter, four-cylinder engine. In combination with Volkswagen’s 7-speed DSG automatic gearbox, the car can rocket from 0-60 mph in just 5.1 seconds.
7/10 Volvo C40 Recharge
Built on the same platform as Volvo’s other compact SUV the XC40, the C40 has many of the same great attributes. The car combines a seriously premium interior, with a modern and distinguished exterior. While clearly part of the Volvo SUV family, the C40 is arguably the most stylish, with its coupe-like lines.
The car has a bang-up-to-date infotainment offering, based around a nine-inch portrait-orientated tablet-style display. The car has a seriously impressive 530-mile electric range and can recharge in just 28 minutes from 0-80%.
6/10 Mazda 3
Available in both a hatchback and a sedan body style, the Mazda 3 punches well above where its size would suggest. Select the “Premium Plus” package, and the cabin becomes genuinely luxurious. From a bespoke 12-speaker Bose audio system to the use of high-quality materials such as aluminum and leather, it is a great place to sit.
The car is also pretty affordable, with the sedan starting at just $22,500 and the hatch at $23,550. Under the hood, the car is available with a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine, which outputs up to 250 hp.
5/10 Jaguar E-Pace
Jaguar’s first compact SUV combines the best aspects of the brand in a compact package. The design is inspired by their sports car range, and the result is a great-looking SUV. Inside the cabin, premium and sustainable materials have been widely used, making the car feel far larger than it is.
Many practical accessories are available directly from Jaguar, to help owners get the most from this utility vehicle. From roof-mounted cycle carriers to ski, snowboard, and even water sport equipment holders, the E-Pace provides everything you’ll need on a longer trip.
4/10 Lexus UX 300e
Lexus has long been known for its excellent range of hybrid SUVs, and it has now taken things a step further. The UX 300e is the brand’s first fully electric, battery-powered model. The powertrain consists of a 54.35 kWh battery mated to a 150 kW motor and generates around 200 hp.
Despite the car’s compact dimensions, it is very well crafted. Many would be hard-pressed to distinguish it from more expensive models in the Lexus lineup.
3/10 Honda E
The cool and quirky Honda E is the brand’s first stab at conquering the electric, urban car market. The cabin sports an ultra-modern design, with two 12.3-inch LCD touchscreen displays dominating the dashboard. For such a compact car, it feels surprisingly spacious inside. The electric powertrain means there is no transmission tunnel, and a flat floor enables four adults to sit in comfort.
With a 35.5 kWh battery, the car can travel up to 137 mph according to WLTP data. 0-60 mph can be completed in a respectable 8.3 seconds.
2/10 Mini Cooper Hardtop
The Mini has always been known for its compact dimensions, with even the name making reference to its size. While the modern iteration cannot accurately be described as “mini”, it is still a great compact car. The exterior has received modernization, with sharp LED headlights and Union Jack taillights now coming as standard. Similarly, both the front and rear grilles have been revised.
Starting at $28,600, the 2-door hardtop Mini hatch is a compelling option. The model comes well-equipped as standard, with Apple CarPlay and a larger 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
1/10 Mercedes A Class
The Mercedes A-Class is arguably one of the most premium small cars on the market. The car’s cabin takes many of the best aspects found in the Mercedes model lineup and packages them in a compact offering.
The interior is very similar looking to that found in the ultra-luxurious S Class. The infotainment system is arranged in a stylish way, composed of two 7.0-inch digital displays. Those desiring something larger can even opt for enlarged 10.25-inch screens.
