Best compact cars
Explore the best used compact cars of 2024
Compact cars
We've compiled a list of the 10 most popular used compact cars with CarMax customers. Learn more about how our lists work.
1. Toyota Corolla
CarMax owner rating
2. Honda Civic
CarMax owner rating
Pros
Engaging driving experience
Spacious, comfortable interior
Plenty of standard driver-assistance features
Cons
LX base trim is on only available in the sedan body style
Audible road noise at highway speeds
Slopping roof affects rear-seat headroom for taller passengers
3. Nissan Sentra
CarMax owner rating
4. Hyundai Elantra
CarMax owner rating
Pros
Long features list
Powerful turbocharged N Line model
Generous passenger space
Cons
Excessive body roll on non-turbo models
Hard plastics in the cabin
No wireless smartphone connectivity on higher trims
5. Kia Forte
CarMax owner rating
Pros
Available turbocharged engine
Standard smartphone integration
High fuel economy
Cons
Limited rear legroom
Firm ride
Vague steering
6. Volkswagen Jetta
CarMax owner rating
7. Nissan Versa
CarMax owner rating
Pros
Good space for a small sedan
Great infotainment system
Ample cargo space
Cons
Slow acceleration
No navigation option
Limited in-cabin storage
8. Chevrolet Cruze
CarMax owner rating
Pros
Choice of two thrifty engine options
Fun and dynamic handling
Impressive standard infotainment system
Cons
Sluggish acceleration
Noticeable jolt in the cabin when engine start-stop system engages
Front seats could be more comfortable
9. Subaru Impreza
CarMax owner rating
10. Honda Fit
CarMax owner rating
Pros
Surprisingly roomy interior
Excellent cargo versatility
Above-average fuel economy
Cons
Rear headroom won’t accommodate tall adults
Uses a side-view camera instead of blind-spot monitoring
How we ranked this list
To create our "Best Of" lists, our analysts looked at CarMax vehicle and sales data over a recent 6-month period, from December 2025 through May 2026. Looking back over a 6-month period allows for the highest sample size possible while also providing up-to-date pricing information. Some articles may include data points with lower sample sizes.
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We hope you found this information helpful. This content is intended to inform and is not meant to indicate that a particular vehicle is currently available or recommended for you.
Statements of fuel economy or EV range are based on EPA and other third-party estimates for vehicles when new. Fuel economy and EV range will degrade with time and vary based on age, driving conditions, vehicle history, and other conditions. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.
Unless otherwise noted, information related to featured vehicles comes from third-party sources, including manufacturer information. Product and company names may be trademarks or registered trademarks of third-party entities. Use of them does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by these entities. By clicking on any video links, you will be taken to a third-party site maintained by YouTube, Inc.
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