Small sedans are popular with drivers who want a fuel-efficient and affordable car that’s still fun. They’re also a good option for families who need a car with enough space for passengers and cargo but don’t want a large SUV or minivan.
With so many small sedans on the market, it can be challenging to choose one that is right for you. That’s why we’ve put together this list of the best small sedans for 2023 based on factors like fuel economy, price, performance, and safety.
Whether you’re looking for a basic car to get you from point A to point B or a more luxurious and performance-oriented sedan, we have you covered.
- 2023 Nissan Versa
- 2023 Kia Rio
- 2023 Honda Civic
- 2023 Volkswagen Jetta
- 2023 Mazda 3
- 2023 Toyota Corolla
- 2023 Audi A3
- 2023 Toyota Prius
- 2023 BMW 2 Series
- 2023 Subaru WRX
2023 Nissan Versa
Via Nissan
Specifications
- MSRP: $15,380 USD / $18,298 CAD
- Engine: 1.6L I4
- Power / Torque: 122 hp / 114lb-ft
- Drivetrain: FWD
- 0-60 mph: 10.0 seconds
- Fuel Economy: 35 MPG combined / 7.7L/100km combined
- Basic Warranty: 3-Year / 36,000-Mile
Our Take
The Nissan Versa is an excellent compact sedan that provides a comfortable ride, ample cargo room, and advanced safety equipment for its price, and the best part is its excellent gas mileage.
Unfortunately, the base model is the only one that has the five-speed transmission that can help you get more power out of the underwhelming four-cylinder engine.
2023 Kia Rio
Via Kia
Specifications
- MSRP: $16,750 USD / $17,445 CAD
- Engine: 1.6L I4
- Power / Torque: 120 hp / 112 lb-ft
- Drivetrain: FWD
- 0-60 mph: 8.6 seconds
- Fuel Economy: 36 MPG combined / 7.0L/100km combined
- Basic Warranty: 5-Year / 60,000-Mile
Our Take
The Kia Rio is a car with plenty of features at a reasonable price. It offers an extensive range of standard equipment and a sophisticated driving experience that could equal that of more expensive automobiles.
The Rio provides straightforward mobility with exceptional fuel efficiency on both city and highway trips, along with technologies like standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
2023 Honda Civic
Via Honda
Specifications
- MSRP: $23,750 USD / $26,285 CAD
- Engine: 2.0L I4
- Power / Torque: 158 hp / 138 lb-ft
- Drivetrain: FWD
- 0-60 mph: 7.4 seconds
- Fuel Economy: 33 MPG combined / 6.9L/100km combined
- Basic Warranty: 3-Year / 36,000-Mile
Our Take
One of the most popular compact cars on the road today is the 2023 Honda Civic. It’s got respectable performance, excellent gas mileage, lots of room for people and cargo, and a classy look.
The Civic is a good choice for a small car thanks to its excellent road manners and is further improved by its attractive exterior and interior.
2023 Volkswagen Jetta
Via VW
Specifications
- MSRP: $21,700 USD / $23,295 CAD
- Engine: 1.5L Turbocharged I4
- Power / Torque: 158 hp / 184 lb-ft
- Drivetrain: FWD
- 0-60 mph: 7.0 seconds
- Fuel Economy: 35 MPG combined / 6.8/100km combined (Manual)
- Basic Warranty: 4-Year / 50,000-Mile
Our Take
The 2023 Jetta provides sufficient power to get you where you need to go with ease and with excellent gas mileage. The car has a sleek exterior, a roomy cabin, and numerous cutting-edge safety measures.
For those in the market for a reliable and entertaining daily driver, the Jetta will not disappoint. If you’re buying a car for the first time and aren’t sure what to anticipate, the 2023 Jetta is an excellent choice.
2023 Mazda 3
Via Mazda
Specifications
- MSRP: $22,500 USD / $21,900 CAD
- Engine: 2.5L I4
- Power / Torque: 191 hp / 186 lb-ft
- Drivetrain: FWD
- 0-60 mph: 7.6 seconds
- Fuel Economy: 27 MPG / 8.2L/100km combined
- Basic Warranty: 3-Year / 36,000-Mile
Our Take
Mazda’s compact sedan and hatchback are among the best in its class, thanks to their attractive exteriors, plush cabins, and pleasurable drives.
The 2023 Mazda 3 is priced similarly to other compacts, but it aims to compete with higher-end vehicles. Both the sedan and hatchback versions of the 3 are attractive and quick. You can choose between two powerful four-cylinder engines.
2023 Toyota Corolla
Via Toyota
Specifications
- MSRP: $21,700 USD / $22,690 CAD
- Engine: 2.0L I4
- Power / Torque: 169 hp / 151 lb-ft
- Drivetrain: FWD
- 0-60 mph: 8.3 seconds
- Fuel Economy: 35 MPG combined / 6.7L/100km combined
- Basic Warranty: 3-Year / 36,000-Mile
Our Take
Every Corolla comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, which includes a Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Tracing Assist, Automatic High Beams, and Road Sign Assist.
The Corolla is one of the most affordable compact sedans, with a starting price of under $22,000, and offers excellent fuel efficiency in the gasoline-only and hybrid powertrains.
2023 Audi A3
Via Audi
Specifications
- MSRP: $36,495 USD / $39,700 CAD
- Engine: 2.5L Turbocharged Mild Hybrid I4
- Battery: 48V
- Power / Torque: 201 hp / 221 lb-ft
- Drive-train: FWD
- 0-60 mph: 6.6 seconds
- Fuel Economy: 32 MPG / 4.7L/100km combined
- Basic Warranty: 4-Year / 50,000-Mile
Our Take
There are a wide variety of trim levels and powertrain options available for the 2023 Audi A3. Its compact design makes it perfect for short commutes, yet its spacious interior and high amenities make even cross-country trips a breeze.
Overall refinement is more than sufficient for a car of this size and stature, and the steering and handling are notable improvements over the previous model.
2023 Toyota Prius
Via Toyota
Specifications
- MSRP: $27,650 USD / $36,650 CAD
- Engine: 2.4L I4
- Battery: 13.6 kWh Lithium Ion
- Power / Torque: 194 hp / 139 lb-ft
- Drivetrain: FWD
- 0-60 mph: 7.1 seconds
- Fuel Economy: 57 MPG combined / 4.7L/100km combined
- Basic Warranty: 3-Year / 36,000-Mile
Our Take
Sportier in appearance than its predecessor, the new Prius features a lower and broader one-motion profile with up to 57 MPG combined manufacturer rate fuel economy.
In this iteration, the Prius boasts a more powerful 2.0L engine, and there is an optional Electronic On-Demand AWD system that employs a motor to drive the rear wheels for greater traction when needed.
2023 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe
Via BMW
Specifications
- MSRP: $38,195 USD / $44,470 CAD
- Engine: 2.0L I4
- Power / Torque: 228 hp / 258 lb-ft
- Drivetrain: FWD
- 0-60 mph: 5.1 seconds
- Fuel Economy: 27 MPG combined / 7.9L/100km combined
- Basic Warranty: 4-Year / 50,000-Mile
Our Take
The 2023 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe has a sloping roofline and frameless doors, giving it a sporty and stylish appearance. However, it has four doors and a spacious rear seat, making it more practical than a traditional coupe.
The interior features high-quality materials and finishes, and the turbocharged engine is standard. The BMW Series 2 Gran Coupe combines sporty design, practical features, and powerful performance.
2023 Subaru WRX
Via Subaru
Specifications
- MSRP: $30,600 USD / $32,495 CAD
- Engine: 2.4L Turbocharged Flat-4
- Power / Torque: 271 hp / 258 lb-ft
- Drivetrain AWD
- 0-60 mph: 5.5 seconds
- Fuel Economy: 22 MPG combined / 10.8L/100km combined
- Basic Warranty: 3-Year / 36,000-Mile
Our Take
The 2023 Subaru WRX comes standard with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, which provides excellent traction and handling in all weather conditions. A 2.4-liter turbocharged BOXER engine that provides exceptional acceleration and passing power powers it.
Its track-tuned suspension provides sharp handling and a comfortable ride.The WRX has various features, including a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and excellent safety features.
