Best Sport Compact Cars for 2022
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.
Read about how we test and evaluate vehicles here.Top Ranked Sport Compact Cars for 2022 at a glance
C/D Rating: 10/10
1
2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI
10
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$30,975
EPA MPG
28 combined
C/D SAYS: VW has reinvented and reinvigorated the already exceptional Golf GTI for its eighth generation with evolutionary styling and upped its power levels. Learn More
2
2022 Volkswagen Golf R
9.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$45,185
EPA MPG
23 combined
C/D SAYS: The new Golf R returns as Volkswagen's ultimate hot hatch, now boasting 315 horsepower and other performance enhancements that have our full attention. Learn More
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
3
2022 Hyundai Elantra N
9
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$33,245
EPA MPG
23–25 combined
C/D SAYS: A performance-oriented Hyundai Elantra N is on its way for the 2022 model year and it gets the Veloster N's fire-breathing turbo four-cylinder. Learn More
4
2022 Honda Civic Si
9
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$28,595
EPA MPG
31 combined
C/D SAYS: The Honda Civic Si returns with a brand-new vibe and the same fun-to-drive philosophy that makes it an awesome performance car for the masses. Learn More
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
5
2022 Volkswagen Jetta GLI
8.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$32,390
EPA MPG
30 combined
C/D SAYS: There's no other sedan at this price point that's as practical, as refined, and—most importantly—as fun to drive as the Volkswagen Jetta GLI. Learn More
➡️ Skip the lot. Let Car and Driver help you find your next car.
Shop the Top 5 Sport Compact Cars for 2022
6
2022 Hyundai Veloster N
8.5
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$33,595
EPA MPG
22–25 combined
C/D SAYS: The Hyundai Veloster N lacks the cachet of the sportiest Honda Civic and VW Golf, but its personality and incredible performance-for-the-dollar deserve acclaim. Learn More
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
7
2022 Subaru WRX
8
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$30,600
EPA MPG
21–22 combined
C/D SAYS: The next Subaru WRX looks to revitalize the image of this rally-inspired sport compact with more power, enhanced driving dynamics, and bolder styling. Learn More
8
2022 Mini Cooper JCW
6
/10
C/D RATING
Starting at
$33,750
EPA MPG
25–28 combined
C/D SAYS: The 2022 Mini Cooper John Cooper Works (JCW) models ooze personality thanks to unique styling, quick-witted handling, a zippy engine, and a well-equipped cabin. Learn More
View More Car and Driver Rankings
Best Subcompact Cars for 2022
Best Sport Compact Cars for 2020
Best Mid-Size Family Sedans for 2023
Best Mid-Size Family Sedans for 2021
Best Subcompact Cars for 2023
Best Sport Compact Cars for 2023
Best Subcompact Cars for 2021
Best Compact Cars for 2022
Best Subcompact Cars for 2020
Best Sport Compact Cars for 2021
Best Mid-Size Family Sedans for 2020
Best Compact Cars for 2020
Best Mid-Size Family Sedans for 2022
Best Compact Cars for 2023
Best Compact Cars for 2021
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below