Compact cars are cheaper with low running costs. But if the car is unreliable, it doesn’t matter as you may even end up spending more. But which compact cars are safe and reliable?
The best compact cars for safety and reliability are Honda Insight, Mazda 3, Lexus ES, Subaru Impreza, Honda Civic, and Kia Soul. Apart from being reliable, these cars are also fuel-efficient and stress-free to own. Most of them easily fit in parking areas and are affordable.
To make life easier, we’ve selected 10 of the best compact cars for safety and reliability so that you can have multiple options to choose from. Most of these cars have been tested by agencies like Consumer Reports, IIHS, and NHTSA for safety and reliability. So, they are tested and proven.
Here is a list of the best compact cars for safety and reliability.
Honda Insight
The best compact car for safety and reliability is the Honda Insight. If you’re tired of visiting the garage frequently, the Honda Insight will save you. This car ranks high on most safety and reliability ratings from different agencies.
The Honda Insight is a midsize car that costs about $24,125. However, it consists of top-notch features that make it fun to drive. And since it can carry up to 5 passengers, this unit is a nice family car that won’t cost you a lot to operate in the long term.
Mazda 3
Mazda 3 is another quality compact car to drive. Besides, it’s safe and reliable; thus, a favorite among families. Equipped with a 3.0-liter regular unleaded inline-4 engine, this car performs well and is fuel-efficient. It has an EPA fuel economy of 26 in the city and 35 on the highway.
With a starting price of about $23,845, this is among the safest and most reliable compact cars a person can own. It’s also fitted with safety features such as automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, adaptive control, and much more.
Lexus ES
You cannot talk about safe and reliable compact cars without mentioning the Lexus ES. Not only is this car safe and reliable, but it’s amongst the most well-built compact sedans on the market. On top of that, it oozes luxury and it has exceptional handling, making it a fun ride to drive.
Honda Civic
The Honda Civic ranks highly on most safety and reliability rating agencies like Consumer Reports. Overall, it’s an excellent car with smooth handling and a spacious interior. However, the car lacks comfort, which is the only setback that can be pointed out. It also has a fantastic fuel economy.
Subaru Impreza
Subaru Impreza is one of the best performing sedans on the market. With a base price of $21,020, this all-wheel-drive car is ideal for all weather. The car also boasts of several safety features such as lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and automatic emergency braking.
Hyundai Veloster
The Hyundai Veloster is among the most unique compact cars on the market. This unit comes with three doors – one on the driver’s side and two on the passenger’s side. Since the car is compact, it uses less fuel and it’s easy to park. It’s also safe and very reliable, making it suitable for busy city life.
Kia Soul
Kia Soul never gets old because of its unique shape. However, what makes this car special is how safe and reliable its owners praise it to be. Additionally, this car has a roomy cabin that’s comfortable with a user-friendly infotainment system. It has a starting price of $22,965.
Toyota Corolla
Toyota Corolla has won many awards in different categories over the decade. But what makes it special aside from its comfortable interior and handling is how safe and reliable it is. Apart from that, it comes with various safety features like dynamic radar cruise control, lane departure alert, and pre-collision with pedestrian detection.
Nissan Leaf
Nissan Leaf is one of the most affordable electric cars on the market. It has a low running cost, does not pollute the environment, and it’s quiet in operation. Nonetheless, what many people don’t know is how safe and reliable the Nissan Leaf is.
Kia Forte
If you’re a daily commuter or love to travel long distances, the Kia Forte is the car for you. Not only does this car offer a comfortable ride, but it’s also fuel-efficient. Furthermore, this compact car comes packed with tons of safety features that keep the occupants safe as much as possible in case of an accident.
FAQ
What is the most reliable and economical small car?
The Skoda Fabia is the most reliable and economical small car on the market. Besides, it’s fun to drive and fuel-efficient. On top of that, it is a solid car that will last for many years if properly well maintained.
Which compact car has the best safety rating?
If you’re a family person and want the safest car for your family, the Nissan Sentra is an excellent choice. Fitted with multiple safety features, this car will keep you safe in an accident. It comes with features such as lane departure warning, rear automatic braking, and automatic emergency braking.
What small cars have a 5-star safety rating?
Not all cars are safe to drive. So, if you want to find out which cars are safe to drive, look at their safety ratings. Some cars are very safe as they have been rated with a 5-star rating. Such cars include Kia Rio, Ford Fiesta, Nissan Micra, Toyota Yaris, and VW Polo.
Final thoughts
Compact cars are not only affordable but as well as easier to maintain. They are also fuel-efficient, easy to park, and comfortable to ride. However, not all of them are safe and reliable. But with our list above, you don’t have to worry about owning an unreliable compact car.
The safest and most reliable compact car is the Honda Insight. It is followed closely by Mazda 3 and Lexus ES. Although these cars are compact, they come packed with high-end features and are comfortable. As a result, they make up excellent family cars.
