Best compact cars
Compact cars
We've compiled a list of the 10 most popular used compact cars with CarMax customers. Learn more about how our lists work.
1. Toyota Corolla
CarMax owner rating
4.5
Pros
Great trim and feature options Plenty of standard driver aids Pleasant ride experience User-friendly infotainment interface
Cons
Intrusive exterior noise Underwhelming acceleration
2. Honda Civic
CarMax owner rating
4.5
Pros
Above-average fuel economy Better storage capacity than rivals Tech features are easy to use
Cons
Lots of road noise on the highway Seats can be uncomfortable on long drives
3. Nissan Sentra
CarMax owner rating
4.2
Pros
Comfortable ride Appealing interior design Plenty of space for cargo
Cons
Sluggish acceleration Poor emergency braking performance Dated infotainment system
4. Hyundai Elantra
CarMax owner rating
4.4
Pros
User-friendly tech features Performance with Elantra N Eye-catching design
Cons
Modest performance with base engine A few cheap-looking interior trim pieces Limited second-row headroom
5. Kia Forte
CarMax owner rating
4.4
Pros
Available turbocharged engine Standard smartphone integration High fuel economy
Cons
Limited rear legroom Firm ride Vague steering
6. Volkswagen Jetta
CarMax owner rating
4.4
Pros
Smooth, pleasant ride Plenty of interior storage Many driver aids come standard
Cons
Cabin materials feel chintzy Touch-sensitive steering wheel controls can be frustrating Lackluster exterior styling
7. Nissan Versa
CarMax owner rating
4.2
Pros
Lots of features Generous trunk space Fuel-sipping performance
Cons
Sluggish acceleration Convenience package no longer available on SV trim Not much in-cabin storage
8. Chevrolet Cruze
CarMax owner rating
4.3
Pros
Choice of two thrifty engine options Fun and dynamic handling Impressive standard infotainment system
Cons
Sluggish acceleration Noticeable jolt in the cabin when engine start-stop system engages Front seats could be more comfortable
9. Subaru Impreza
CarMax owner rating
4.5
Pros
Lots of storage Standard all-wheel drive Smooth ride
Cons
So-so fuel economy Mediocre acceleration No longer offered as a sedan
10. Honda Fit
CarMax owner rating
4.6
Pros
Surprisingly roomy interior Excellent cargo versatility Above-average fuel economy
Cons
Rear headroom won’t accommodate tall adults Uses a side-view camera instead of blind-spot monitoring
How we ranked this list
To create our "Best Of" lists, our analysts look at CarMax vehicle and sales data over a recent 6-month period, from December 2023 through May 2024. Looking back over a 6-month period allows for the highest sample size possible while also providing up-to-date pricing information. Some articles may include data points with lower sample sizes.
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RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2006-2020 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features. RepairPal Reliability Ratings are provided by RepairPal and CarMax is not responsible for their accuracy.
Fuel economy figures are based on EPA estimates for when vehicle sold as new. Fuel economy may vary for reasons like driving conditions and vehicle history. Unless specified, figures are for vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission. See fueleconomy.gov.
Range figures are based on EPA estimates for when vehicle sold as new and assume a full battery charge. Range will vary based on things like battery age, vehicle condition and history, driving and charging habits, accessory use, and driving conditions. Battery capacity may decrease with time and use. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.
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We hope you found this information helpful. This content is intended to inform and is not meant to indicate that a particular vehicle is currently available or recommended for you.
Statements of fuel economy or EV range are based on EPA and other third-party estimates for vehicles when new. Fuel economy and EV range will degrade with time and vary based on age, driving conditions, vehicle history, and other conditions. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.
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We make every effort to provide accurate information, but please verify before purchasing.