Best Small Cars of 2022

There are many benefits to owning a small vehicle compared to a larger one. Learn more about the fastest-growing automotive segment.

There are many benefits to owning a compact vehicle compared to a larger vehicle. They are usually more affordable, have great fuel economy and are overall more fun to drive! So if you are looking for the best compact vehicles of 2022, check out our list below!Browse Inventory

Honda Civic 2022

MSRP$25,370 - $31,970Fuel EconomyCity RatingHighway RatingCity & HWY7.7L/100 km6.0L/100 km6.0-7.7 L/100 kmHorsepower158 hp @ 6500 rpmTorque138 ft-ln @ 4200 rpmDrivetrainFront-Wheel Drive

2022 Honda Civic

Pros

  • Great handling and fuel economy
  • Upscale interior
  • Various tech features

Cons

  • Loud cabin noise
  • Lacks comfort
  • Faulty alarms
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Honda Canada (@hondacanada)

Honda civic’s a classic. This year's model features a refreshed design inside and out, with a honeycomb grate design along the dash, and a slick exterior design. The overall performance and its low fuel economy is what have made the Civic one of the best compact sedans in its class. If you are looking for a vehicle that you will get the best bang for your buck, then the 2022 Honda Civic might be it!

2022 Hyundai Elantra

MSRP$18,099 - $28,499Fuel EconomyCity RatingHighway RatingCity & HWY9.1 L/100 km6.3 L/100 km6.3-9.1 L/100 kmHorsepower147hp @ 6200 rpmTorque132 ft-ln @ 4500 rpmDrivetrainFront-Wheel Drive

Pros

  • Amazing Infotainment system 
  • Hybrid and sport options 
  • All new Elantra N trim

Cons

  • Base engine could be improved
  • Low quality interior
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Hyundai Canada (@hyundaicanada)

The 2022 Hyundai Elantra is a great value compact sedan. Starting at $18,000, it performs very well for a low-budget vehicle, offering many standard features that most low-budget vehicles don’t offer. We love the Elantra because there is something for everyone at every price point. If you're looking for a sedan that delivers on all fronts, the Elantra should be at the top of your list.

2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI

MSRP$31,495 - $40,395Fuel EconomyCity RatingHighway RatingCity & HWY10.1 L/100km7.9 L/100km9.1 L/100kmHorsepower241hp @ 5000 rpmTorque273 ft-lb @ 1750 rpmDrivetrainFront-Wheel Drive

Pros

  • Loads of power
  • Fun vehicle to drive

Cons

  • High starting price
  • No AWD option
  • Exterior design might not appeal to all
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Volkswagen Canada (@vwcanada)

Though the 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI has a bigger price tag than other vehicles in our list, we will still think it is one of the best compact vehicles of 2022. The turbocharged four-cylinder engine produces a whopping 241 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque making it a fun vehicle to drive. This hatchback is practical, has great acceleration and has many great features. And of course, there is manual transmission opinion making drives more engaging.

2022 Kia Forte

MSRP$18,295 - 29,995Fuel EconomyCity RatingHighway RatingCity & HWY7.9 L/100 km5.9 L/100 km5.9-7.9 L/100 kmHorsepower147 hp @ 6200 rpmTorque132 ft-lb @ 4500 rpmDrivetrainFront-Wheel Drive

Pros

  • Low starting price
  • Amazing fuel economy
  • Great warranty

Cons

  • Stiff driving
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kia Canada (@kiacanada)

The 2022 Kia Forte is equipped with many features and competes similarly with the Honda Civic. Depending on your preferences, the Forte has two engine options - take your pick from a 2.0L engine or a 1.6L turbo engine (with a manual transmission option). It is also a great option if you are looking for more trunk space. With the low price and comfortable interior, the Kia Forte is definitely on our top list for compact vehicles.

2022 Mazda Mazda3

MSRP$21,400 - 35,500Fuel EconomyCity RatingHighway RatingCity & HWY8.4 L/100 km6.6 L/100 km6.6 - 8.4 L/100 kmHorsepower155 hp @ 6000 rpmTorque150 ft-lb @ 4000 rpmDrivetrainFront-Wheel Drive (All-Wheel Drive option)

Pros

  • Available as a sedan or a hatchback
  • AWD option
  • Great acceleration

Cons

  • Lacks cargo and rear space
  • More features = more expensive
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mazda Canada (@mazdacanada)

Mazda has really stepped its game with its 2022 Mazda3. With its sleek exterior and interior look, you definitely feel like you are driving a higher end vehicle. Though the overall car is not as spacey as the other vehicles (they do offer a hatchback option), the Mazda3 has many other features

2022 Volkswagen Jetta

MSRP$22,895 - $29,895Fuel EconomyCity RatingHighway RatingCity & HWY7.7 L/100 km5.7 L/100 km5.7 - 7.7 L/100 kmHorsepower158 hp @ 5500 rpmTorque184 ft-lb @ 1750 rpmDrivetrainFront-Wheel Drive

Pros

  • Great fuel economy
  • Loads of cabin room 
  • Customizable instrument cluster 
  • Improved exterior

Cons

Interior design could be improved

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Volkswagen Canada (@vwcanada)

The 2022 Volkswagen Jetta is an impressive compact car and should not be missed in the best compact vehicles of 2022! The Jetta has great fuel economy and has improved its exterior for the 2022 model. Though its interior design lacks design, we still think the pros outweigh the cons.At VINN, we work directly with you to guide you through the process of finding a new car. Our vehicle experts will work with you to ensure that you get the best value for the right car, and you can also browse our inventory.Happy driving!

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Tell us about your favourite vehicles or fun car facts by tagging us on Instagram @vinncanadaor Twitter @vinnauto.Browse Inventory

Josh
Josh
Wicks
Copywriter
Nov 14, 2022

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