The best compact cars in 2024
Among all the compact cars on the market, the Car Guide team has compiled a list of the three models that represent the best buys in this category.
Although SUVs continue to make inroads year after year, compact cars are still holding on to market share, particularly in Quebec, where sales remain strong.
The Toyota Corolla takes first place from the Honda Civic this year. There are a number of reasons for this editorial choice, not least of which is the fact that Honda's prices have risen more sharply than Toyota's. Inflation has taken its toll across the industry. Inflation has taken its toll across the industry, but the Corolla remains more affordable than its main rival.
The second key point is the option of a hybrid version. In addition to significantly lower fuel consumption than an equivalent gasoline-powered compact, the Corolla Hybrid also comes with all-wheel drive (except for the base model).
Available as a sedan or hatchback, the Corolla can even satisfy sports car enthusiasts with the GR version. This little bomb features a 1.6-liter 3-cylinder turbo engine (300 hp) and an all-wheel drive system that can be parameterized to optimize performance.
So it's thanks to its better-positioned price and vast range that the Corolla logically takes first place in our ranking.
2. Honda Civic
The best-selling car in Canada for many years, the Civic was dethroned by the Corolla in 2023. Like the Corolla, Honda's compact car is available as a sedan or hatchback. Two gasoline engines (1.5-liter turbo or 2-liter naturally-aspirated) are available to power models aimed at the general public.
A hybrid version is planned for the 2025 model year, which could change our ranking. But we'll have to be patient before we can drive an electrified Civic.
For buyers looking for more sportiness, the Si version uses the same 1.5-liter 4-cylinder engine, but in a more powerful version (200 hp instead of 180). Finally, the much more radical and powerful Civic Type R (315 hp) is aimed at purists who are prepared to forget comfort for the sake of maximum efficiency.
The last place in our ranking is no longer occupied by the Mazda3, but by the new Subaru Impreza.
Modernized after a long period of inactivity, the Impreza returns as a hatchback only. Available in four distinct trim levels, the first two models are powered by a 152 hp 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine. For their part, the two top-of-the-range models are equipped with a 2.5-liter unit boasting 182 hp and 31 lb-ft of torque.
Permanent all-wheel drive comes as standard, as usual with Subaru. A system that proves just as effective in winter conditions.
Better soundproofed, with a large trunk, the Impreza is an interesting car, even if the lack of electrification and diversity within the range prevent it from doing better.
