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Looking to hire a new car? Before that, you need to understand what you’re getting for your money. There are several categories for cars that differ in car size, leg room, fuel efficiency and combined passenger and cargo capacity. One popular option that drivers like to go for is the compact car. But what is a compact car, exactly?
In the simplest terms, a compact car (or small car) is a class of car that sits between the mid-size and subcompact car classes. It’s also known as a European C-segment car and a British small family car.
However, this is not written in stone since some people would differently define this car type and use the term and use the therm in other contexts. Despite these blurred lines, we can use some specific metrics to define these vehicles.
Let’s start with passenger capacity. A compact car can comfortably seat up to four passengers — though some models can take up to five people, but it will be very crowded back there.
Next up, let’s look at how much space you get in a compact car. Title 40 of the US Code of Federal Regulations defines them based on their interior volume index (combined passenger and cargo volume). A compact car has an interior volume index between 100 and 109.9 cubic feet (2.83 to 3.11 cubic metres), according to the EPA.
Regarding car length, you can expect a compact car to be between 4.08 and 4.74 metres long. To put things in perspective, a Toyota Corolla, Hyundai Accent and Volkswagen Jetta would be good examples of compact cars.
Most of these vehicles are hatchbacks. But what is a hatchback?
Advantages And Disadvantages Of Compact Cars
The disadvantages of most cars can be outweighed by their advantages depending on the owner’s needs and vice versa. Let’s have a look at some of the pros and cons of small cars for a better insight:
Advantages
- Good fuel efficiency – The smaller size and lower weight contribute to reduced fuel consumption and excellent gas mileage. A 2024 Honda Civic can go up to 36 combined mpg, for example.
- Manoeuvrability – Compact cars are easy to park and perfect for navigating through the city crowd.
- Affordability – Lower purchase price, tax and registration fees, better insurance deals and cheaper repairs make these cars pretty affordable.
- Environment friendly – They have good fuel economy, which contributes to lower carbon emissions.
Disadvantages
- Limited space – Limited cargo interior volume makes these vehicles inconvenient for load transportation and groups of more than four people.
- Less comfort – They offer a bumpy ride on rough ground and are not suited for tall people.
- Less power – These cars offer less power and acceleration and are not designed for high-speed driving due to their smaller engines.
- Safety – Compact cars are at a disadvantage in case of collision with bigger vehicles like mid-sized cars.
You can check crash tests and safety ratings on the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Organization) website for compact car models.
As you can see, there are plenty of benefits to getting a compact car, but there are some downsides as well. The high fuel efficiency and eco-friendliness will appeal to drivers who want to minimise their impact on the environment.
The Difference Between A Compact And An Economy Car
If you’re shopping around for a car to rent or buy, you’ve probably run into the term ‘economy car’. It refers to low-cost cars that are lightweight and efficient. The definition of this vehicle class car has changed over time, previously referring to compact and subcompact cars alike. Currently, they mostly refer to subcompact vehicles, but again, the line is sometimes blurred.
The difference between a compact and an economy car is primarily in their size.
Economy cars are smaller than compact cars and usually have two doors. They have a total passenger and cargo space of between 85 and 99 cubic feet (2.41 to 2.80 cubic metres). Economy cars have excellent gas mileage that beats small cars. Overall, they’re cheaper to rent and buy than compact and mid-sized cars, but they offer little trunk space and not too much luxury or comfort.
| Compact Car | Economy Car |
|---|---|
| Returns around 30-35 mpg | Returns around 25-30 mpg |
| Enough cargo space for a large family | Smaller cargo space |
| Enough room for up to five passengers. Good for groups | Enough space for four passengers. Best for two-to-three passengers |
| Price range: £12,000 to £20,000 | Price range : £15,000 to £20,000 |
| Has four doors | Mostly has two doors, though some models can have four doors. |
Popularity Of Compact Cars
The popularity and demand for compact cars are on the rise according to the verified market research report. Besides all the beneficial features, they are reliable vehicles with many things to offer.
Regarding the European market, compact cars are in second place in popularity, just behind subcompact cars, also known as the A and B segments. The most popular compact car manufacturer in Europe is Volkswagen, and their Golf holds a significant dominance in that segment, so great that many people refer to the compact class as the ‘Golf Segment’.
Rising fuel prices and environmental concerns are pushing new buyers into the compact car market. The compact car global market size was valued at £37.75 Billion in 2022. It’s expected to reach £43.28 Billion by 2028, with a compound annual growth rate of 2.35%. As a result, car manufacturers are likely to focus on efficient and affordable compact car model designs.
Regarding stats and fun facts, find out all about the smallest car in history.
Who Should Choose A Compact Car For The Next Hire?
You should choose a compact car for the next hire (or purchase) if you want a solid and reliable new vehicle that can take you everywhere. CBS News wrote about a similar subject, but to be more precise and on point, they are the best option for:
- Medium-sized families – These vehicles have enough interior space to comfortably carry a medium-sized family.
- People in dense urban areas – Small-sized cars like compact sedans are excellent for navigating busy streets and are easy to park.
- Those who want a fuel-efficient vehicle – Compact cars have good fuel economy, reducing driver expenses.
- First-time car buyers – Due to affordability, low maintenance needs, and ease of handling, these vehicles are a good choice for people with a fresh driver’s licence.
Regarding smaller cars, we have some very reliable budget-friendly options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Compact Cars Less Safe Compared To Larger Ones?
Yes, compact cars are generally less safe compared to larger ones. A driver in a larger vehicle will be safer when colliding with other objects. However, large cars may be at a higher risk of rolling over during an accident. Compact cars have a lower centre of gravity, reducing the risk of rollover accidents. There are exceptions in both categories because every model is different. Size matters in a collision, but small and subcompact cars have safety features that minimise the importance of size.
What Is The Difference Between A Compact And Midsize Car?
The difference between a compact and midsize car is their size, cargo space, and fuel efficiency. A mid-size car offers 110 to 120 cubic feet (3.11 to 3.40 cubic metres) of interior space — slightly more than a compact car. These vehicles have more head and legroom and are considered more convenient for luggage transport than smaller cars. Compacts are more fuel-efficient, which makes them a great option for individuals looking to save money. Compact and mid-size sedans have some similarities as well.
Are Compact Cars Suitable For Families?
Compact cars are suitable for families, but it depends on size and for what purpose. They are great for families with 2 children and are more than enough for short and medium trips. A compact sedan like the Honda Civic is perfect for driving around the city, offering enough space in the back seats for your kids to be comfortable. But these models may be a little tight for longer camping trips and vacations for more than four people. You should consider larger cars like station wagons or sedans that offer more space for this kind of travel commitment.
Conclusion
Do you want to pick out a new car to buy or rent? And would it be a good choice for you? Mid-sized and economy cars have their uses, but compact cars fill a specific niche that may appeal to your driving needs. It’s a popular choice that offers fuel efficiency and a bit of extra room and comfort if you need to travel. So, what is a compact car good for? If you need regular day-to-day driving in the city — it’s the right car for you.
