How We Rank Cars: MotorTrend tests more than 200 vehicles at the track every year. We rate cars using the same factors you do, including how they drive, interior space, efficiency, tech, value, and safety. Ratings are only applicable within each respective segment. Read More >>
MotorTrend scores are applicable only within each respective subclass.MSRP does not include destination fee.
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Best Subcompact Hatchbacks
(3)#1
2022 Kia Rio
Although it's slow and tiny, the Rio impresses given its low pricing. It feels well-built and refined, more so than is expected from cars in this category. Critically the Rio doesn’t feel cheap, unlike some subcompact cars.
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MT Score8.8/10
MPG33/41
MSRP$16,150 - $17,090
#2
2022 Chevrolet Spark
The Spark is slow, cramped, and noisy, but this entry-level Chevy is also light, and includes Apple CarPlay as well as Android Auto as standard equipment.
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MT Score7.1/10
MPG29/38
MSRP$13,600 - $18,100
#3
2022 Mitsubishi Mirage
How it drives is frankly dreadful, but the Mirage is cheap and returns great fuel economy. Mitsubishi’s long warranty adds a layer of confidence. For 2021 the Mirage received fresh styling and features.
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MT Score6.8/10
MPG33/41
MSRP$14,645 - $18,695
Best Compact Hatchbacks
(5)#1
2022 Honda Civic
The redesigned Civic impresses with clean interior design, excellent fuel economy, tight handling, and generous safety features. Some buyers will miss the coupe, but the sporty Si remains a good buy.
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MT Score9/10
MPG30/38
MSRP$21,900 - $29,400
#2
2022 Toyota Corolla
What the Corolla sedan lacks in performance and comfort it makes up for in tech and efficiency. Its standard driver assist features are a plus, and the hatch skips the sedan’s loud, underpowered base engine.
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MT Score8.8/10
MPG28/37
MSRP$20,175 - $28,460
#3
2022 Subaru Impreza
Standard AWD adds appeal to the Impreza. Whether in sedan or hatchback form, it rides and handles nicely, but acceleration trails competitors. Still, an excellent value rating makes it a smart buy.
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MT Score8.4/10
MPG24/31
MSRP$18,795 - $26,395
Best Compact Hybrid Hatchs
(3)#1
2022 Hyundai Ioniq
The efficient and updated Ioniq offers excellent tech, but is slow and the HVAC controls could be easier to use.
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MT Score8.5/10
MPG58/60
MSRP$23,600 - $33,250
#2
2022 Toyota Prius
Now available with AWD or as a plug-in, the Prius is a decent and affordable hybrid option in need of a redesign.
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MT Score8.3/10
MPG58/53
MSRP$24,625 - $32,920
#3
2022 Kia Niro
We dig the Niro's geeky hybrid gadgetry, roomy back seat, and efficiency, but a smallish cargo area and odd brake feel plus a noisy cabin may have hybrid buyers looking elsewhere.
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MT Score7.2/10
MPG53/48
MSRP$24,690 - $36,490
Best Luxury Midsize Wagons
(3)#1
2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class
Our 2021 Car of the Year, the E-Class offers excellent powertrains and a good ride with the air suspension. More interior space would be nice, but the superb E-Class does nearly everything right.
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MT Score9.1/10
MPG22/28
MSRP$54,950 - $75,400
#2
2022 Audi A6
Behind the A6’s evolutionary looks are an impeccably built interior and one of the quietest interiors in the class. A comfortable ride and secure handling cement the A6’s place as a class leader.
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MT Score8.9/10
MPG21/28
MSRP$55,900 - $72,400
#3
2022 Volvo V90
The big Volvo wagon lacks the performance of its German competitors, and even its outstanding design can't overshadow dated tech and a below average value rating.
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MT Score8/10
MPG22/29
MSRP$55,200