For drivers who want good fuel economy without having to sacrifice cabin comfort or passenger space. They also prefer vehicles that handle responsively and are fun to drive.
Cars that fall into this category are called compact cars. They typically seat four or five people. Depending on the model, they can be either sedans or hatchbacks.
Size
Traditionally, compact cars have been small hatchbacks or sedans that fall between subcompact and mid-size vehicles in terms of size. They are typically between 161 and 187 inches long, have an interior volume between 100 and 109 cubic feet, and come in two- or four-door options. They are a popular option for urban drivers because they are more maneuverable, easier to park and require less gas than larger vehicles.
The EPA defines compact cars as a class of vehicle that sits between the subcompact and mid-size categories in terms of cabin space, exterior dimensions, engine size and fuel efficiency. However, car dealerships, rental agencies and other organizations may use their own definitions of what counts as a compact car. It is best to ask if a particular model is classified as such before you buy. 운전연수
While compact cars used to be viewed as utilitarian vehicles, manufacturers are increasingly aiming to make these cars more comfortable and feature-rich. Some compact cars, such as the Honda Fit, Toyota Yaris and Nissan Versa, are even starting to compete with mid-sized vehicles in terms of comfort and features. With that being said, a compact car might not be the right fit for a family or for those who need a lot of cargo room. Still, these cars are an excellent choice for people who need a reliable urban commuter with great fuel efficiency and reasonable pricing.
Fuel efficiency
Despite the fact that many people love big, bold and brash cars that produce lots of noise and pow 운전연수 er, most modern consumers want something more practical. This is where the compact car shines, offering lots of space in a small package that’s easy to maneuver and park.
The best models can easily achieve 30 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway, even without a hybrid drivetrain. They’re also cheaper to insure and maintain than larger cars, and they can save space in your garage and pocketbook.
As a result of competition and progression, almost all contemporary compact cars come comprehensively outfitted specs-wise. This includes advanced driver-assistance and active safety systems, infotainment functionalities and optional extras that add an appearance package or other features.
It’s also not uncommon to find a premium compact car, such as an Audi A3 or Volkswagen GTI, that offers plenty of luxury and performance alongside great fuel economy. These cars are the perfect choice for drivers who want to get around town with style, comfort and efficiency.
Safety
While some drivers still rely on the perception that small cars are cheaply made, affordable econo-boxes, many new compact car models have performed very well in crash tests and come loaded with advanced driver assist systems. Some examples include blind spot monitoring, lane departure warnings and rear cross-traffic alerts. Many are also adequately sized to accommodate child safety seats.
The size of a Compact car makes them easier to drive and park on busy roads or in tight parking spaces, which is ideal for urban driving where most of us live and work. They are also more fuel efficient and cheaper to insure than larger vehicles.
The 2015 Nissan Sentra is a great example of a safe, yet affordable Compact car. It has been awarded the IIHS Top Safety Pick designation and earned good ratings in a battery of evaluations, including head restraint, seat, side, roof strength and moderate overlap front tests. It even scored acceptable or good in the demanding small overlap front test, which was a big improvement from its previous model. The Hyundai Elantra is another highly-rated compact car. Whether you choose the gas-only version or the hybrid, both have excellent crash-test results and a suite of sophisticated driver assistance systems.
Convenience
Many drivers are drawn to compact cars for their small size and fuel efficiency. They are ideal for commuters in urban areas, first-time car buyers, and those on tight budgets. The smallest models get excellent gas mileage and are easier to maneuver and park in tight spaces. They are also less expensive to insure and repair than larger vehicles.
A compact car can save you space in your garage or driveway, and is a great choice for city dwellers with limited storage. These models are also a great option for families with kids. They are a good alternative to SUVs and pickup trucks, and are better suited for hauling gear or luggage for road trips.
The EPA defines the compact car category by interior passenger and cargo volume. A vehicle under 111 inches is considered compact, 111 to 118 inches is considered intermediate, and anything over 118 is full-size. This can be a bit confusing, as some car dealerships and rental agencies may use their own definition of “compact”.
While it is true that compact cars have smaller cargo capacities than mid-sized sedans, they are no longer synonymous with bare boned, stripped down vehicles. Depending on the model, many come with features that were once only available in luxury and more expensive models. For example, many compact models offer advanced safety features like anti-lock brakes and electronic stability control. In addition, some feature premium audio systems and navigation devices.