{"id":1910,"date":"2021-04-27T15:11:52","date_gmt":"2021-04-27T15:11:52","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/automarketwatch.com\/?p=1910"},"modified":"2022-06-20T15:12:39","modified_gmt":"2022-06-20T15:12:39","slug":"the-pros-and-cons-of-compact-cars","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/automarketwatch.com\/index.php\/2021\/04\/27\/the-pros-and-cons-of-compact-cars\/","title":{"rendered":"The Pros and Cons of Compact Cars"},"content":{"rendered":"

The idea that \u201cbigger is always better\u201d isn\u2019t always accurate, especially when it comes to automobiles. Sure, there are situations where more seats, bigger cargo areas, and a more powerful engine certainly come in handy. For the normal driver, however, a compact car like a used Ford Focus could be everything they\u2019ve dreamed of and then some. At the same time, compact cars aren\u2019t necessarily the perfect option.<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n

While every manufacturer offers different kinds of compact vehicles with various features, upgrades, and abilities, they all share some things in common. Whether you\u2019re looking at a Honda Civic, Mazda3, or a used Ford Focus, here are the pros and cons of owning a compact car.<\/p>\n

What Exactly Is a Compact Car?<\/h3>\n

The EPA in the US defines a compact car as a vehicle that has between 100 and 109 cubic feet of combined passenger and cargo volume. The compact car must also be between 161 and 187 inches long. Under this definition, many different types of cars can be considered compact: sedans, hatchbacks, and even convertibles.<\/p>\n

The Pros Of A Small Car<\/h3>\n

Just because a vehicle is small doesn\u2019t mean it can bring a great deal to the table. Most modern compact cars have huge personalities that make up for anything they lack in the size department.
\nHere are a few things that make a compact stand out:<\/p>\n

\u2022 On average, they offer better fuel efficiency<\/a><\/strong> than larger vehicles
\n\u2022 Their sticker prices are much less than larger cars
\n\u2022 They are extremely easy to maneuver and park
\n\u2022 Compacts tend to be more fun to drive
\n\u2022 Since they are so popular, compact cars are great for resale
\n\u2022 They tend to have more straightforward designs, making them more reliable and easier to service<\/p>\n

The Cons of A Small Car<\/h3>\n

With so many great things on the side of compact cars, it\u2019s hard to imagine there being anything wrong with them. Sadly, there are some downsides to consider when you\u2019re exploring that used Ford Focus you saw advertised on Facebook.<\/p>\n

Here are some of the bigger negatives of driving a compact car:<\/p>\n

\u2022 Smaller engines often mean less horsepower. That results in taking longer times to get up to speed or tackling steep inclines
\n\u2022 It may not provide as smooth of a ride as larger vehicles
\n\u2022 Car accidents can be more dangerous, especially if the other vehicle is much larger
\n\u2022 There isn\u2019t as much space for passengers and cargo
\n\u2022 Some drivers feel self-conscious about driving a smaller car, especially when larger vehicles are on the road<\/p>\n

Is a Compact Car For You?<\/h3>\n

Needless to say, compact cars aren\u2019t for everyone. At the same time, you may not know how much fun and simplicity these vehicles offer until you give one a try. Drivers often describe a stronger connection to the car and road. With better gas mileage, you might even decide to take your compact car across the country instead of spending most of your trip looking for gas stations. No matter what your cup of tea tastes like, vehicles like the used Ford Focus<\/a><\/strong> play a vital and joyous part of the American transportation experience. Give one a try and see if a smaller car is a good fit for you.<\/p>\n