What is considered a compact car?
A compact car, also known as a small family car, is a classification of automobiles that are smaller and more fuel-efficient than mid-size or full-size cars. Compact cars typically have a length of around 14 to 16 feet and a width of 5 to 6 feet, making them well-suited for urban driving and parking in tight spaces.
Defining Compact Cars
Compact cars are defined by their overall size and interior volume. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), a compact car has a total interior volume between 100 and 109 cubic feet. This includes the passenger and cargo space, with the majority of the volume dedicated to the passenger cabin. Compact cars are larger than subcompact cars, which have an interior volume below 100 cubic feet, but smaller than mid-size cars, which range from 110 to 119 cubic feet.
Common Compact Car Features
Compact cars typically have the following features:
- Seating for 4-5 passengers
- Smaller, more fuel-efficient engines, often 4-cylinder
- Front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive configurations
- Lighter weight construction for improved fuel economy
- Compact exterior dimensions for easy maneuverability
These features make compact cars well-suited for urban and suburban driving, where fuel efficiency, parking, and maneuverability are important considerations.
Examples of Compact Cars
Some popular examples of compact cars include the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Volkswagen Jetta, Hyundai Elantra, and Ford Focus. These models offer a balance of practicality, efficiency, and affordability, making them a common choice for many drivers.
In summary, a compact car is a classification of vehicles defined by its smaller size and interior volume compared to larger car classes. Compact cars prioritize fuel efficiency, maneuverability, and affordability, making them a popular choice for urban and suburban drivers.
Is a Corolla considered a compact car?
How much space does the Toyota Corolla and Camry have? While the Toyota Corolla is considered a compact sedan with the Camry being considered a mid-size, you might be surprised to find that there is very little difference in how much space is provided for passengers and cargo.
Is a RAV4 considered a compact SUV?
In the Toyota model lineup, you will find several options for crossovers and compact SUVs including the Toyota Corolla Cross and Toyota RAV4. There are also hybrid SUV, plug-in hybrid SUV, and electric SUVs to choose from, where you can acquire the Corolla Cross Hybrid, bZ4X, RAV4 Hybrid, RAV4 Prime, and Venza.
Is a SUV a compact car?
Typically, SUVs - built for rougher terrain - tend to be larger in size, with most models being categorized as either mid-sized or full-sized. Crossovers can be anywhere from subcompact to full-sized. But despite this, manufacturers will often refer to a crossover as a "small-sized SUV" or "compact SUV."
Is a Camry considered a compact car?
Size. The Toyota Camry is a midsize sedan, while the Toyota Corolla is a compact sedan.
Is a Subaru Outback a compact car?
A Reliable Midsize SUV Built for the Road Ahead.
Is a Toyota Camry considered a compact car?
Originally compact in size (narrow-body), the Camry has grown since the 1990s to fit the mid-size classification (wide-body)—although the two widths co-existed in that decade. Since the release of the wide-bodied versions, Camry has been extolled by Toyota as the firm's second "world car" after the Corolla.
Is a Honda Civic considered a compact car?
Compact Car #2 – The Honda Civic
More than 27 million Civic models have sold throughout the decades, and it has remained one of the most popular new and used Honda models year after year, giving you plenty to choose from as you look for a great used car.
How do I know if my car is a compact car?
Based on the combined passenger and cargo volume, compact cars are defined as having an interior volume index of 100–109 cu ft (2.8–3.1 m3).
Is the Honda CRV compact or midsize?
Compact SUV
2025 Honda CR-V – Safe & Sporty Compact SUV Crossover.
Is the Toyota Camry full size or compact?
Originally compact in size (narrow-body), the Camry has grown since the 1990s to fit the mid-size classification (wide-body)—although the two widths co-existed in that decade.
