Best Sedans and Hatchbacks of 2024 and 2025
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Sedans and hatchbacks can be a practical choice for drivers seeking fuel efficiency and a lower cost to purchase. Some sedans and hatchbacks have starting prices in the low $20,000s or below.
We’ve assessed and rated gas-powered versions of these cars and chosen the ones that stand out. Our ratings are based on safety, comfort, technology, driving features, fuel efficiency and — most important — cost and value.
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Best Small Sedans
Our top picks for small cars include both subcompact and compact sedans. These vehicles can be among the most economical options for car buyers.
#1 for small sedans
5.0
NerdWallet rating
on TrueCar's website
Gasoline Fuel
Engine Type
158 @ 6500 hp
Horsepower
35
Combined MPG
Front Wheel Drive
Drivetrain
5 passengers
Seating Capacity
3 / 36,000
Basic Warranty
Gasoline Fuel
Engine Type
158 @ 6500 hp
Horsepower
35
Combined MPG
🏆 Award winner: Kelley Blue Book Best Buy and Best Resale Value. Vincentric Best Certified Pre-Owned Value in America.
🦺 Safety winner: IIHS Top Safety Pick.
Our verdict: The Honda Civic has received numerous industry awards and rates high for fuel efficiency. It has numerous advanced safety features, such as driver monitoring, adaptive cruise control and cruise control steering assist. It also comes with automatic climate control, which monitors and regulates the car’s internal temperature.
💸 5-year cost of ownership
$39,294. This is on the low end.
Based on AAA and Vincentric automotive data. Includes financing, fees, fuel, insurance, maintenance and depreciation.
🔄 Resale value
Great. (89/100)
J.D. Power's assessment based on the vehicle's expected depreciation over the next three years.
#2 for small sedans
5.0
NerdWallet rating
on TrueCar's website
Gasoline Fuel
Engine Type
78 @ 6000 hp
Horsepower
37
Combined MPG
Front Wheel Drive
Drivetrain
5 passengers
Seating Capacity
5 / 60,000
Basic Warranty
Gasoline Fuel
Engine Type
78 @ 6000 hp
Horsepower
37
Combined MPG
Our verdict: The Mitsubishi Mirage is one of the most fuel-efficient non-electric vehicles available, and it’s one of the few cars with a starting MSRP below $20,000. It’s also backed by a 10-year/100,000-mile drivetrain warranty. Although the Mirage may be a good option for the budget-conscious, it lacks many advanced safety features and has not been fully crash-tested by the IIHS.
💸 5-year cost of ownership
$40,399. This is middle of the range.
Based on AAA and Vincentric automotive data. Includes financing, fees, fuel, insurance, maintenance and depreciation.
🔄 Resale value
Fair. (64/100)
J.D. Power's assessment based on the vehicle's expected depreciation over the next three years.
#3 for small sedans
5.0
NerdWallet rating
on TrueCar's website
Gasoline Fuel
Engine Type
147 @ 6200 hp
Horsepower
34
Combined MPG
Front Wheel Drive
Drivetrain
5 passengers
Seating Capacity
5 / 60,000
Basic Warranty
Gasoline Fuel
Engine Type
147 @ 6200 hp
Horsepower
34
Combined MPG
Our verdict: The Kia Forte scores well for fuel efficiency, cost and value. It has a low starting MSRP and holds its value well, which is important if you later sell or trade it. The Forte has Kia’s 10-year/100,000-mile drivetrain warranty, and it has a larger trunk in its category.
💸 5-year cost of ownership
$40,523. This is middle of the range.
Based on AAA and Vincentric automotive data. Includes financing, fees, fuel, insurance, maintenance and depreciation.
🔄 Resale value
Great. (83/100)
J.D. Power's assessment based on the vehicle's expected depreciation over the next three years.
#4 for small sedans
4.5
NerdWallet rating
on CarsDirect's website
Gasoline Fuel
Engine Type
147 @ 6200 hp
Horsepower
36
Combined MPG
Front Wheel Drive
Drivetrain
5 passengers
Seating Capacity
5 / 60,000
Basic Warranty
Gasoline Fuel
Engine Type
147 @ 6200 hp
Horsepower
36
Combined MPG
🦺 Safety winner: IIHSTop Safety Pick+, Top Safety Pick.
Our verdict: The Hyundai Elantra receives a top score for safety and has many advanced safety features, including front and rear collision mitigation and blind spot monitoring. The Elantra is fuel-efficient and comes with Hyundai’s 10-year/100,000-mile drivetrain warranty.
💸 5-year cost of ownership
$43,140. This is on the high end.
Based on AAA and Vincentric automotive data. Includes financing, fees, fuel, insurance, maintenance and depreciation.
🔄 Resale value
Great. (85/100)
J.D. Power's assessment based on the vehicle's expected depreciation over the next three years.
#5 for small sedans
4.5
NerdWallet rating
on CarsDirect's website
Gasoline Fuel
Engine Type
169 @ 6600 hp
Horsepower
35
Combined MPG
Front Wheel Drive
Drivetrain
5 passengers
Seating Capacity
3 / 36,000
Basic Warranty
Gasoline Fuel
Engine Type
169 @ 6600 hp
Horsepower
35
Combined MPG
Our verdict: The fuel-efficient Toyota Corolla has the lowest five-year cost of ownership in its category. It also comes with many advanced safety features such as driver monitoring, front collision mitigation and adaptive cruise control. The Corolla also earned a Consumer Reports “well above average” designation for reliability.
💸 5-year cost of ownership
$38,824. This is on the low end.
Based on AAA and Vincentric automotive data. Includes financing, fees, fuel, insurance, maintenance and depreciation.
🔄 Resale value
Great. (85/100)
J.D. Power's assessment based on the vehicle's expected depreciation over the next three years.
Best Midsize Sedans
Sedans with between 110 and 120 cubic-feet of interior space fall into the midsize segment, according to the EPA. These cars offer a combination of efficiency, affordability, space and comfort.
#1 for midsize sedans
5.0
NerdWallet rating
on TrueCar's website
Gasoline Fuel
Engine Type
192 @ 6000 hp
Horsepower
32
Combined MPG
Front Wheel Drive
Drivetrain
5 passengers
Seating Capacity
3 / 36,000
Basic Warranty
Gasoline Fuel
Engine Type
192 @ 6000 hp
Horsepower
32
Combined MPG
🏆 Award winner: Kelley Blue Book Best Buy and Best Resale Value.
🦺 Safety winner: IIHS Top Safety Pick+, Top Safety Pick.
Our verdict: The Honda Accord is an award-winning car that stands out for fuel efficiency and safety. The Honda Sensing suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies is standard on every Accord. It also has a low cost of ownership for its category and has earned a Consumer Reports “above average” designation for reliability.
💸 5-year cost of ownership
$45,823. This is on the low end.
Based on AAA and Vincentric automotive data. Includes financing, fees, fuel, insurance, maintenance and depreciation.
🔄 Resale value
Great. (87/100)
J.D. Power's assessment based on the vehicle's expected depreciation over the next three years.
#2 for midsize sedans
5.0
NerdWallet rating
on CarsDirect's website
Gasoline Fuel
Engine Type
203 @ 6600 hp
Horsepower
32
Combined MPG
Front Wheel Drive
Drivetrain
5 passengers
Seating Capacity
3 / 36,000
Basic Warranty
Gasoline Fuel
Engine Type
203 @ 6600 hp
Horsepower
32
Combined MPG
🦺 Safety winner: IIHS Top Safety Pick.
Our verdict: Compared with other midsize sedans, the Toyota Camry has the lowest five-year cost of ownership and top fuel-efficiency. It also stands out for safety and comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense, a suite of features that include front collision mitigation and lane departure alert.
💸 5-year cost of ownership
$44,543. This is on the low end.
Based on AAA and Vincentric automotive data. Includes financing, fees, fuel, insurance, maintenance and depreciation.
🔄 Resale value
Great. (85/100)
J.D. Power's assessment based on the vehicle's expected depreciation over the next three years.
#3 for midsize sedans
4.5
NerdWallet rating
on CarsDirect's website
Gasoline Fuel
Engine Type
182 @ 5800 hp
Horsepower
30
Combined MPG
All Wheel Drive
Drivetrain
5 passengers
Seating Capacity
3 / 36,000
Basic Warranty
Gasoline Fuel
Engine Type
182 @ 5800 hp
Horsepower
30
Combined MPG
🏆 Award winner: Vincentric Best Certified Pre-Owned Value in America.
Our verdict: The Subaru Legacy is recognized as a best value for CPO vehicles and earned a Consumer Reports “above average” rating for reliability. These designations may be important, because Legacy production will end with the 2025 model. So, if you aren’t able to buy a new one, a well-maintained used one could still be a good option.
💸 5-year cost of ownership
$45,464. This is on the low end.
Based on AAA and Vincentric automotive data. Includes financing, fees, fuel, insurance, maintenance and depreciation.
🔄 Resale value
Great. (82/100)
J.D. Power's assessment based on the vehicle's expected depreciation over the next three years.
#4 for midsize sedans
4.0
NerdWallet rating
on CarsDirect's website
Gasoline Fuel
Engine Type
180 @ 5500 hp
Horsepower
31
Combined MPG
Front Wheel Drive
Drivetrain
5 passengers
Seating Capacity
5 / 60,000
Basic Warranty
Gasoline Fuel
Engine Type
180 @ 5500 hp
Horsepower
31
Combined MPG
Our verdict: The Kia K5 stands out for comfort and convenience at an affordable price. Compared to other midsize sedans, it has more front leg and head room, a larger trunk, multi-zone air conditioning, automatic climate control and remote engine start. The K5 also has a 10-year/100,000-mile drivetrain warranty.
💸 5-year cost of ownership
$46,939. This is middle of the range.
Based on AAA and Vincentric automotive data. Includes financing, fees, fuel, insurance, maintenance and depreciation.
🔄 Resale value
Great. (84/100)
J.D. Power's assessment based on the vehicle's expected depreciation over the next three years.
#5 for midsize sedans
4.0
NerdWallet rating
on CarsDirect's website
Gasoline Fuel
Engine Type
191 @ 6100 hp
Horsepower
29
Combined MPG
Front Wheel Drive
Drivetrain
5 passengers
Seating Capacity
5 / 60,000
Basic Warranty
Gasoline Fuel
Engine Type
191 @ 6100 hp
Horsepower
29
Combined MPG
🦺 Safety winner: IIHS Top Safety Pick.
Our verdict: The Hyundai Sonata stands out for safety, with advanced features that include front and rear collision mitigation, driver monitoring and cross-traffic alert. The Sonata also earned a Consumer Reports “above average” designation for reliability, but it isn’t as fuel-efficient as similar sedans.
💸 5-year cost of ownership
$46,757. This is middle of the range.
Based on AAA and Vincentric automotive data. Includes financing, fees, fuel, insurance, maintenance and depreciation.
🔄 Resale value
Great. (89/100)
J.D. Power's assessment based on the vehicle's expected depreciation over the next three years.
Best Hatchbacks
Hatchbacks are passenger cars with an upward-lifting rear door that opens to the cargo area. They can be more versatile than sedans, which have a trunk compartment separate from the passenger area.
#1 for hatchbacks
5.0
NerdWallet rating
on CarsDirect's website
Gasoline Fuel
Engine Type
78 @ 6000 hp
Horsepower
39
Combined MPG
Front Wheel Drive
Drivetrain
17.1 cu ft
Cargo Capacity
5 passengers
Seating Capacity
5 / 60,000
Basic Warranty
Gasoline Fuel
Engine Type
78 @ 6000 hp
Horsepower
39
Combined MPG
🏆 Award winner: Vincentric Best Certified Pre-Owned Value in America.
Our verdict: The Mitsubishi Mirage ranks well above other vehicles in its class for fuel efficiency. It also has one of the lowest starting MSRPs (below $20,000), a low five-year cost of ownership and an above average 10-year/100,000-mile drivetrain warranty. The Mirage is an affordable option, but it does lack a number of advanced safety features.
💸 5-year cost of ownership
$38,275. This is on the low end.
Based on AAA and Vincentric automotive data. Includes financing, fees, fuel, insurance, maintenance and depreciation.
🔄 Resale value
Fair. (64/100)
J.D. Power's assessment based on the vehicle's expected depreciation over the next three years.
#2 for hatchbacks
4.5
NerdWallet rating
on TrueCar's website
Gasoline Fuel
Engine Type
158 @ 6500 hp
Horsepower
33
Combined MPG
Front Wheel Drive
Drivetrain
24.5 cu ft
Cargo Capacity
5 passengers
Seating Capacity
3 / 36,000
Basic Warranty
Gasoline Fuel
Engine Type
158 @ 6500 hp
Horsepower
33
Combined MPG
🏆 Award winner: Kelley Blue Book Best Buy and Best Resale Value. Vincentric Best Certified Pre-Owned Value in America.
🦺 Safety winner: IIHS Top Safety Pick.
Our verdict: The Honda Civic hatchback has won numerous industry awards and rates high for safety. It also has above average fuel efficiency and a five-year cost of ownership on the low end in its category. Another feature worth noting is a larger cargo capacity than many similar hatchbacks.
💸 5-year cost of ownership
$40,381. This is on the low end.
Based on AAA and Vincentric automotive data. Includes financing, fees, fuel, insurance, maintenance and depreciation.
🔄 Resale value
Great. (89/100)
J.D. Power's assessment based on the vehicle's expected depreciation over the next three years.
How do hatchbacks and sedans compare?
When choosing between a hatchback and a sedan, it helps to understand their similarities and key differences. Here’s a breakdown of how these two body styles measure up in different areas.
Cargo space and storage: If cargo space is a priority, a hatchback has the advantage. Its rear hatch opens up to a larger cargo area, making it easier to load and unload items. Additionally, hatchbacks often have rear seats that fold down, significantly increasing storage capacity. While some sedans also have fold-down rear seats, their trunk space remains more confined and less accessible.
Passenger comfort: Both hatchbacks and sedans can typically accommodate four to five passengers, but comfort levels can vary. Sedans usually offer more legroom, whereas hatchbacks provide extra headroom in the rear thanks to their taller roofline.
Size and maneuverability: The overall size difference between hatchbacks and sedans is often minimal, but hatchbacks tend to be slightly shorter. This can make them easier to maneuver in tight spaces and when parallel parking.
Fuel efficiency: A sedan’s more aerodynamic shape gives it a slight edge in fuel efficiency over a hatchback version of the same model. However, the difference is usually minor.
Pricing and resale value: Hatchbacks generally have a slightly higher initial cost than their sedan counterparts, though the price gap isn’t drastic. When it comes to resale value, it depends on factors like make, model, and market demand.
Visibility: Hatchbacks typically offer better rear visibility due to their larger rear window and upright design. This can improve a driver’s ability to see behind them compared to a sedan.
Road noise: If a quieter ride is important, a sedan may be the better option. The enclosed trunk and separate cabin help reduce road noise, whereas hatchbacks, with their open cargo area, tend to let in more sound from the road.
Security for valuables: If you frequently carry valuable items, sedans provide more security. Their enclosed trunks keep belongings hidden from view, whereas a hatchback’s rear window often exposes the cargo area. Without a cover, items in the back of a hatchback may be more visible and less secure.
Our sedan buying guide provides additional information that can help you decide on the best car for you.
Financing a sedan or hatchback
Before shopping for a car, it’s a good idea to determine how much vehicle expense and monthly payment you can afford.
Think about ongoing costs such as fuel, insurance and maintenance. Our total cost of car ownership calculator can help.
If you’ll be financing, use an auto loan calculator to determine the maximum you should borrow and at what interest rate for a monthly car payment that fits your budget. A good rule of thumb is spending no more than 10% of your take-home pay on a car payment when possible.
Shop lenders and compare interest rates to find the best car loan. If you’re buying from a car dealership, taking time to get a preapproved auto loan elsewhere may be a way to reduce your financing cost. Present your preapproved loan to the dealer and ask if they can beat the interest rate.
Look into auto deals and incentives from auto manufacturers to reduce the amount you pay upfront for a car.
How we rate and rank vehicles
Our car rankings are based on a thorough review of more than 3,400 makes and models, with upward of 500 data points for each, as well as inputs from respected third-party automotive resources. Within specific vehicle segments, we select 60 or more data points that matter most to buyers and owners of those vehicles. We then score the vehicle with the heaviest emphasis on helping you make a smart financial decision.
Review and rating process
NerdWallet’s overall car ratings are weighted averages in seven categories.
Cost and value includes metrics like starting MSRP, warranties, five-year cost of ownership and resale value.
Safety includes safety features and industry safety awards.
Fuel efficiency includes combined, city and highway mpg for gas vehicles and MPGe for electric vehicles.
Driving features and functionality combines data points such as horsepower and drivetrain options, along with cargo and towing capacity. Cars can also lose points in this category for the number of recalls.
Comfort and interior covers metrics related to head and leg room, seating and temperature control.
Tech and convenience includes things like smartphone integration, wireless phone charging and infotainment. We get that these are must-haves for some people, but our methodology focuses most on cost and value factors.
Awards includes industry awards from Edmunds, Kelley Blue Book, Consumer Reports and Vincentric.
Subcategories within each of these categories vary slightly based on vehicle segments and what’s important to drivers in that group.
About outside-award winners
Consumer Reports and Kelley Blue Book each have a history of evaluating vehicles and delivering useful information to consumers. Their awards reflect well-rounded assessments and, we think, are worth noting.
About safety winners
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) is a nonprofit group with decades of experience performing crash tests and other safety evaluations on vehicles. Top performers are issued one or both of two designations: Top Safety Pick and Top Safety Pick+. To earn a TSP+ rating, vehicles must meet additional criteria for a higher level of safety performance related to front and side crash tests, headlight performance and pedestrian front crash prevention.
About the five-year cost of ownership
Our five-year cost of ownership estimate is based on information from AAA and Vincentric and includes the categories of financing, fees, fuel, insurance, maintenance and depreciation. For comparison purposes, our cost of ownership estimate is based on the national average for a new, base-model vehicle driven 15,000 miles annually, with equal amounts of city and highway driving, and a gas price of 3.097 cents per gallon.
About resale value
We base resale value on J.D. Power's forecast of a vehicle’s depreciation over the next three years. J.D. Power uses their industry-leading valuations data for this assessment and ranks each vehicle on a 100-point scale: Best (91-100), Great (81-90), Average (70-80) and Fair (0-69).
Who we are
Our autos team is made up of writers and editors who cover a wide range of auto industry and financial topics. We have more than 30 years of combined experience in finance and autos. Each team member adheres to NerdWallet’s strict guidelines for editorial integrity.
Our writers’ bylines have appeared in Nasdaq, MSN, MarketWatch, Yahoo! Finance and other national and regional media outlets.
