Compact cars are reasonably sized, fuel efficient, and affordable! The traditional 4-door formula has stretched to include everything from more spacious boxy builds to sleek and sporty coupes. Forbes WHEELS has compiled a list of the best small cars for 2021 – cars that offer everything you need for daily driving wrapped into an efficient package.

Mazda3

The Mazda3 is a compact car that offers surprisingly high-end styling on the interior and an engaging drive performance. New for 2021, the Mazda3 offers a Turbocharged version for people looking for a more invigorating ride. Overall, the Mazda3 is a stylish car that makes driving fun for everyone whether a day to day driver or an enthusiast.

Forbes Favorites

• Premium style inside and out
• Fun-to-drive performance
• 2.5 Turbo model gives 250 horsepower

Honda Civic

The Honda Civic has been a staple in the compact car segment for years thanks to its roomy interior, fun-to-drive performance, responsive handling, and practicality. It also offers good fuel mileage and a sharp exterior design. Another perk is the performance version, the Civic Type R for more adventurous drivers and the all new 2022 Civic has been completely redesigned for the new model year.

Forbes Favorites

• Lots of standard driver-assist gear
• Superb engines and chassis
• Available manual transmission

Kia Forte

The Kia Forte is stylish, roomy, and packed with standard features that make everyday driving that much better all for a reasonable price. The top-spec GT gets a 201-horsepower turbocharged engine and almost all of the Forte’s large array of available features.

Forbes Favorites

• Packed with technology
• Compelling visual design inside and out
• Turbocharged GT offers manual transmission