Best Sport Compact Cars for 2021
Car and Driver's rankings are arrived at from the results of our extensive instrumented testing of several hundred vehicles each year and from our expert editors' subjective impressions gained in real-world driving. We've ranked the best sport compact cars based on roughly 200 data points encompassing acceleration, handling, comfort, cargo space, fuel efficiency, value, and how enjoyable they are to drive. We take rankings seriously because we want you to know everything about the vehicles that you're interested in.
Top Ranked Sport Compact Cars for 2021 at a glance
1
2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI
10
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$29,690
EPA MPG
26 combined
C/D SAYS: Despite a new generation on the horizon, the Mk 7 Volkswagen Golf GTI is an exceedingly fun and accessible hatchback. Learn More
2
2021 Volkswagen Jetta GLI
10
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$27,340
EPA MPG
28 combined
C/D SAYS: The Jetta GLI sedan is graced with a potent engine, a pair of terrific transmissions, and an athletic chassis that make it the perfect analog to the Golf GTI. Learn More
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3
2021 Honda Civic Type R
9.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$38,910
EPA MPG
N/A
C/D SAYS: The Honda Civic Type R might hurt the eyes and disappoint the ears, but its terrific driving behavior will still enchant the senses. Learn More
4
2021 Hyundai Veloster N
9
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$33,255
EPA MPG
22–25 combined
C/D SAYS: Fun to drive, affordable, and full of character, the Hyundai Veloster N is a turbocharged hot hatchback with a unique personality. Learn More
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5
2021 Subaru WRX
7
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$28,420
EPA MPG
21–23 combined
C/D SAYS: The Subaru WRX is raw compared with other sport compacts, which gives it a unique brand of driving verve that's its own special form of entertainment. Learn More
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6
2021 Subaru WRX STI
6.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$38,170
EPA MPG
18 combined
C/D SAYS: The Subaru WRX STI is about the closest thing to a road-legal rally car, which is exciting for die-hard rally enthusiasts and exhausting for everyone else. Learn More
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7
2021 Mini Cooper JCW
6
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$33,750
EPA MPG
26–28 combined
C/D SAYS: Small on the outside, tiny on the inside, and frisky all over, the Mini Cooper JCW is an amusing, sporty, and stylish hatchback that makes every drive fun. Learn More
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