Which small cars have heated seats?
Yes. A growing number of compact and subcompact cars offer heated front seats in mid-level trims or as options, including popular models like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla Hatchback, Mazda3, Hyundai Elantra, Kia Forte, Nissan Sentra, Volkswagen Golf, and Mini Cooper. Availability varies by year, market, and trim, so check the exact spec for the model you’re interested in.
What counts as a "small car" and why heated seats matter
By “small car” we mean compact and subcompact cars that are typically hatchbacks or sedans with smaller footprints and lower curb weights. Heated seats have become a common feature in these segments as a value-added comfort option, often bundled with cold-weather packages or included on mid-range and higher trims. The exact availability depends on market and model year, so it’s important to confirm with the dealer or manufacturer’s spec sheet.
United States market: small cars with heated seats
The following models are frequently offered with heated front seats in mid-level trims or above in common U.S. configurations. Always verify the specific trim and options for the model year you’re considering.
- Honda Civic — Heated front seats are typically included in EX-L and Touring trims, with occasional availability as part of a package on other trims.
- Toyota Corolla Hatchback — Heated front seats are usually found on XLE and XSE trims (and sometimes as part of a convenience package on other trims).
- Mazda3 — Heated front seats are commonly available on the Preferred and higher trims; base trims may not include them.
- Hyundai Elantra — Heated front seats are available on mid-range trims (often SEL) and standard on higher trims in recent model years.
- Kia Forte — EX and higher trims typically include heated front seats, with lower trims offering them only via options/packages.
- Nissan Sentra — Heated front seats are available on SV and SR trims (and can be included in some packages).
- Volkswagen Golf — Heated front seats are offered on SE and higher trims; GTI provides them as a standard feature in most markets.
- Mini Cooper — Heated seats are available via the Cold Weather Package across several trims; package contents can vary by year.
These examples illustrate the typical pattern: heated seats appear on mid-range or higher trims, or as part of a cold-weather/comfort package. If you’re shopping a specific year, confirm the exact trim and package contents with the dealer or on the official configuration page.
Europe and other markets: heated seats in compact cars
Across Europe and other regions, heated seats are even more common in smaller cars and are frequently available on mid-range trims or as part of winter or comfort packages. Model lines from brands like Renault, Peugeot, Volkswagen, Skoda, Ford, and Hyundai often list heated front seats as standard or optional depending on trim level and country.
- Renault Clio — Heated front seats are commonly offered on mid-range trims and higher in many markets, occasionally bundled with winter packs.
- Peugeot 208 — Heated front seats are typically available on mid- to high-spec trims; some versions include them as standard.
- Volkswagen Polo — Heated seats are regularly offered on higher trims or as part of a comfort/winter package in several countries.
- Skoda Fabia / Octavia (where available) — Heated seats are often available on mid-tier trims.
- Hyundai i20 / i30 — Heated seats are commonly available on mid-range trims and above in Europe, with broader availability in recent generations.
Because trim names and option packages vary by country and year, the exact availability can differ even within Europe. Always consult the local configurator or dealer for precise details on heated-seat options.
How to verify heated seats on a car you’re considering
When shopping, use these steps to confirm availability:
- Check the official spec sheet for the exact trim and equipment list; look for "heated seats" or "heated front seats" under interior features.
- Review the optional packages or winter/cold-weather packages that may include seat heaters.
- Ask about regional differences; some features may be offered only in specific markets or on certain model years.
- Test drive and physically feel the seat heater to confirm comfort levels and heat distribution.
Following these steps will help ensure you’re getting heated seats in the small car you want, regardless of region or year.
Summary
Heated seats have become a near-standard comfort feature in many small cars across major markets, especially in mid-range or higher trims and in regions with colder climates. Models like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla Hatchback, Mazda3, Hyundai Elantra, Kia Forte, Nissan Sentra, Volkswagen Golf, and Mini Cooper are commonly found with heated front seats, though exact availability varies by year and market. If you’re shopping, check the trim-level specifications, package contents, and local dealership listings to confirm current availability.
What are the disadvantages of heated car seats?
While heated seats provide comfort, particularly in cold climates, they also have disadvantages. One major disadvantage is that they consume additional power, which can put an extra load on the car battery. Overuse of heated seats can also lead to reduced effectiveness over time.
What is the cheapest car with heated seats?
Here's a look at what it takes to get heated seats on some of today's least-expensive models.
- Nissan Versa SR: $21,000.
- Nissan Sentra SV: $23,000 (2022 Model)
- Subaru Impreza Premium: $24,000.
- Hyundai Venue Limited: $24,000.
- Kia Soul EX: $26,000.
- Nissan Kicks SR: $26,000.
- Volkswagen Jetta SE: $25,000.
What is the easiest car for seniors to get in and out of?
SUVs and crossovers are generally the easiest cars for seniors to get in and out of because their higher ride height allows for a more horizontal movement, often referred to as the "zero plop factor". Popular models that are good for ease of access include the Hyundai Santa Fe, Subaru Forester, and Honda CR-V, as they combine a good seat height with wide door openings. Minivans also offer a convenient, high-entry design.
Top car types for seniors
- SUVs and crossovers: These are a great starting point because their higher stance means a more comfortable "chair height" entry, reducing the need to sit down or climb up.
- Hyundai Santa Fe: Often cited for its higher seating position and wide door openings.
- Subaru Forester: Known for its good ride height and roomy interior.
- Honda CR-V: Praised for its easy access and safety features.
- Minivans: These offer a very accessible design, especially in terms of entry height.
- Honda Odyssey: A popular choice for its overall convenience.
- Kia Carnival: Another good minivan option for easy access.
What to look for
- "Zero plop" factor: A car is ideal when the seat height is level with the user's hip height, making it easy to slide in and out without climbing or dropping into the seat, according to A Girls Guide to Cars.
- Wide door openings: Wider openings make it easier to get a foot in and out and provide more room to maneuver.
- Spacious interior: A roomy cabin provides more space for getting in and out of the vehicle without feeling cramped.
- Automatic transmission: This is an easy-to-use feature that avoids the complexity of a manual clutch.
What brand of cars have heated seats?
To this end, you'll find that Jeep, Dodge, Ford, Hyundai, Chevrolet, and Lexus have gone out of their way to make sure car buyers enjoy heated and cooled seats at a price they can afford.
