Gas price fluctuations constantly reshape car buying trends. While larger vehicles like trucks and SUVs have seen resurgences, the smart advantages of smaller cars remain undeniable. For many drivers, especially in urban environments, the benefits of Small Compact Cars are clear: they are often more affordable, easier to maneuver and park, and consistently offer better fuel economy. Even when gas prices are low, efficiency is always a plus. Here’s our countdown of ten outstanding small American cars from 2016 that highlight these benefits.
10) 2016 Buick Verano
The 2016 Buick Verano represents Buick’s commitment to modernizing its brand image. This small compact car sedan delivers a touch of entry-level luxury without a premium price tag. While not directly competing with high-end luxury compacts, the Verano’s cabin is undeniably comfortable, refined, and quiet, showcasing excellent build quality and a generous list of features. The base Verano is powered by a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 180 horsepower and 171 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. It achieves an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 21 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway. For those seeking more power, the Verano Turbo offers a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that cranks out 250 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. This turbocharged variant is available with either a six-speed automatic or a six-speed manual transmission, making it a standout among American small compact cars for drivers wanting a blend of efficiency and performance.
9) 2016 Cadillac ATS
The 2016 Cadillac ATS serves as the entry point to the Cadillac lineup, positioning itself as a more accessible luxury option within the small compact car segment. Available as both a five-passenger sedan and a four-passenger coupe, the ATS offers a sophisticated and understated appeal. Standard features are plentiful, and advanced safety technologies such as adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert are available. Engine choices are robust, starting with a 202-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder (standard in the sedan), a 272-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder (standard in the coupe), and a powerful 335-horsepower 3.6-liter V-6. An eight-speed automatic transmission is standard across the range, but the turbocharged four-cylinder engine also offers an optional six-speed manual for a more engaging driving experience. The 2016 Cadillac ATS, a compelling small compact car, comes standard with rear-wheel drive, and all-wheel drive is offered as an option.
8) 2016 Chevrolet Cruze
The 2016 Chevrolet Cruze is a stylish and fuel-efficient small compact car sedan that strengthens Chevrolet’s presence in a highly competitive market. It stands out as one of the most value-driven options in its class. Interestingly, the Cruze offers two engine choices, both producing 138 horsepower. The upgrade, a turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder, provides enhanced torque and superior fuel economy compared to the base 1.8-liter four-cylinder. The turbocharged Cruze achieves up to 42 mpg on the highway, while the base model reaches up to 38 mpg under the same conditions. Transmission options include both a six-speed automatic and a six-speed manual. Inside, the 2016 Chevy Cruze comfortably accommodates five passengers and boasts a spacious trunk. It also offers desirable tech features like available 4G LTE connectivity via GM’s OnStar system, making it a well-rounded small compact car.
7) 2016 Chevrolet Spark
Chevrolet Spark 2016 red color in city road
The Chevrolet Spark, another significant small compact car in Chevrolet’s entry-level lineup, received a redesign for 2016, bringing improvements in power, fuel efficiency, and standard safety equipment. This subcompact hatchback, seating four, is designed for younger buyers and city dwellers prioritizing budget-friendly efficiency. The 2016 redesign includes a new 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine paired with either a five-speed manual or a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). While its 98 horsepower might seem modest, it’s perfectly adequate for the Spark’s purpose of providing affordable and efficient transportation in a small compact car package. The 2016 Chevrolet Spark also comes standard with useful features such as rear parking sensors, a rearview camera, and GM’s OnStar system, enhancing its appeal as a practical small compact car.
6) 2016 Chevrolet Volt
The Chevrolet Volt, already a strong contender in the small compact car category, became even more compelling with its 2016 redesign. This plug-in hybrid, redesigned for 2016, addresses the growing acceptance and understanding of electric vehicle ownership. While technically a plug-in hybrid rather than a fully electric car, the Volt is engineered to maximize electric driving range. Chevrolet made significant updates for this generation, including a more accessible starting price and increased seating capacity to five passengers, up from four in the previous generation. A full electric charge provides the 2016 Chevy Volt with an impressive range of up to 53 miles, and when using engine power, it still achieves excellent fuel economy figures of up to 43 mpg city and 42 mpg highway. The Volt stands as an innovative small compact car option for environmentally conscious drivers.
5) 2016 Chrysler 200
The 2016 Chrysler 200 occupies a space that blurs the lines between small compact cars and midsize sedans, but its affordability and features align with the desires of those seeking a small compact car. This sedan offers entry-level luxury for five passengers, although rear seating might be a bit tight for taller adults. The Chrysler 200 is available in four trim levels and offers two engine options. The base model features a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 184 horsepower and 173 lb-ft of torque. An optional 3.6-liter V-6 engine delivers a robust 295 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque and comes standard with all-wheel drive (optional on the base model). Both engines are paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The 2016 Chrysler 200 prioritizes affordability by keeping standard equipment minimal, but offers a wide range of optional features, making it a customizable small compact car choice.
4) 2016 Dodge Dart
The 2016 Dodge Dart is an affordable five-passenger small compact car sedan that draws design inspiration from Dodge’s higher-performance models, without encroaching on their market segment. This small compact car benefits from European architecture, thanks to Dodge’s partnership with FIAT, contributing to handling that is surprisingly sporty for its class. The 2016 Dodge Dart offers three engine options. For an optimal balance of driving dynamics and fuel efficiency, the turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder is a standout choice, available with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission. This engine produces 160 horsepower, matching the base 2.0-liter four-cylinder, but the turbo significantly improves fuel economy, achieving EPA ratings of 28 mpg city and 41 mpg highway. The Dodge Dart is a compelling small compact car for those seeking a bit of driving excitement.
3) 2016 FIAT 500
The FIAT 500, while undeniably Italian in origin, design, and heritage, is included as an American small compact car following FIAT’s merger with Chrysler. This four-seat, three-door hatchback (also available as a convertible) emphasizes style and personality as much as practicality. Available in various playfully named trim levels and vibrant color combinations, the 500 boasts a modern and distinctive interior design. The 500 is also fun to drive, thanks to its two available 1.4-liter four-cylinder engines. The base engine produces 101 horsepower and delivers excellent fuel economy, while the optional turbocharged version offers 135 horsepower with average fuel economy. Transmission choices include a five-speed manual and a six-speed automatic. While the base 2016 FIAT 500 is well-suited for city driving, the turbo version is recommended for drivers who frequently travel longer distances at highway speeds, making it a stylish and versatile small compact car.
2) 2016 Ford Fiesta
The 2016 Ford Fiesta, a sporty American subcompact car, offers buyers the choice between a sedan and a hatchback body style, both seating five passengers. It is widely recognized as one of the most stylish vehicles in the subcompact class, with an athletic design complemented by its responsive power and handling. The base model produces 120 horsepower from its 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine. Paired with a five-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission, the entry-level Fiesta meets the needs of most buyers seeking an efficient small compact car. The Fiesta SE upgrades to a turbocharged 1.0-liter three-cylinder engine producing 123 horsepower, and the top-of-the-line Fiesta ST boasts a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine delivering 197 horsepower. For an affordable subcompact, the 2016 Ford Fiesta delivers an impressive blend of style, performance, and practicality in the small compact car segment.
1) 2016 Ford Focus
Stepping up from the Fiesta, the 2016 Ford Focus is a small compact car available in both hatchback and sedan versions, both offering seating for five. The Focus is one of the most popular models in its class, known for its comfort, utility, and performance at an attractive price. The base Focus is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 160 horsepower, paired with a six-speed automated manual or five-speed manual transmission. The performance-oriented Focus ST features a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 252 horsepower and comes with a six-speed manual transmission. For even greater performance, the Ford Focus RS, new for 2016, includes standard all-wheel drive and a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine producing 350 horsepower. The 2016 Ford Focus secures the top spot as a versatile and powerful small compact car option.
