05Sep
For most auto shoppers, finding the perfect balance between affordability and power often presents the biggest dilemma. America’s obsession with big and bigger is understandable, but that obsession typically ends with pickup trucks. Despite the enhanced comfort of larger cars like the Ford Taurus and Chrysler 300, compact cars offer numerous pros that make them the preferred option for both individuals and families across the classes of society.
Small, compact cars are attractive options for many reasons, including lower road taxes, higher fuel economy, lower insurance and maintenance costs, and so on. If you opened this article, you’d like to merge these pros with an engaging, even performance-oriented driving experience in a compact package.
We've scoured the market to bring you the top 10 most powerful small cars under $30,000 for 2023. These affordable powerhouses prove you don't need to break the bank to experience thrilling performance, stylish designs, and modern features.
Related Reading: The R 333 Edition Is The Most Powerful Volkswagen Golf Ever Made
1. 2023 Honda Civic (hatchback) Type R
- Horsepower: 315 HP
- Starting MSRP: $24,545
Overview:
The 2023 Civic returns with a hatchback-only Type R variant to compete with Kia Forte and Hyundai Elantra in the compact class. With an impressive 315 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque coming from its turbocharged 2.0-liter I4 mill, the 2023 Honda Civic’s rivals are better off focusing on other aspects besides performance to stand a chance.
For example, the Kia Forte and Hyundai Elantra fight for their share of the market by offering a plethora of features that provide excellent value for your investment.
The Mazda 3, on the other hand, distinguishes itself with its captivating aesthetics and the option of robust turbocharged power combined with all-wheel drive. Indeed, a thrilling driving experience is not all about horsepower.
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The 2023 Honda Civic is the latest evolution of a perennial best-seller that has dominated the roads and tracks for decades. Available in sedan and hatchback variants, this 11th-gen Civic reaffirms its reputation as a versatile choice.
Notably, this model marks the exciting return of the hatchback-only Civic Type R, which promises an exceptional driving experience. The fact that Civic still wears a sedan body style in 2023 is a testament to its enduring popularity.
American automakers keep ditching their sedans in favor of C-SUVs, but the Japanese automaker is confident in the Civic’s enduring market command. The hatchback Type R, in particular, reigns supreme in terms of horsepower and thrills. Equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter I4 engine, it unleashes an impressive 315 horses and 310 lb-ft of torque.
Power flows to the front wheels, and this combination propels the Civic Type R to its limits, with maximum horsepower reached at 6,500 rpm and peak torque at 2,600 rpm. Note that while the regular Civic starts at around $25,000, the Type R hatchback starts at $43,990.
2. 2023 Mazda Mazda3 (Hatchback 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus)
- Horsepower: 250 HP
- Starting MSRP: $22,550
Overview:
The Mazda3 stands out with its stylish design and available turbocharged engine – a 2.5-liter turbo I4 producing 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque. The 2023 Mazda3 shines through the tightly-competed compact segment with an engaging driving experience and premium interior materials.
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The 2023 Mazda Mazda3 is, in a nutshell, a compact car that strives to transcend its price point and rival premium counterparts. Like the Civic, Mazda3 is available in both sedan and hatchback models, each exuding an appealing combination of style and agility.
Mazda offers two potent four-cylinder engines, including a robust turbocharged option. The AWD is an enticing addition but comes at the cost of the sweet 6-speed manual gearbox. The tradeoff poses a serious dilemma to certain types of shoppers, especially the types reading this article.
In any case, Mazda fans with a need for speed will find their bundle of joy in the Mazda3 Hatchback 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus variant. This variant boasts a turbocharged 2.5-liter I4 engine that delivers a compelling 250 horsepower and a robust 320 lb-ft of torque.
The power delivery is channeled through a responsive 6-speed shiftable automatic transmission to an all-wheel-drive system, providing both performance and enhanced control. Do we have any complaints? Well, the 2023 Mazda3 isn't the most practical compact car, at least not in a segment where the likes of Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic also belong.
In any case, the Mazda makes up for this drawback by focusing on offering its customers an immensely satisfying driving experience, great styling, and upscale interior. Note that while the ‘23 Mazda3 starts at around $23,000, the Premium Plus package ups the price to $35,300.
3. 2023 Kia Forte GT
- Horsepower: 201 HP
- Starting MSRP: $19,690
Overview:
The 2023 Forte GT impresses with an updated sportier exterior styling. It relies on a turbocharged powertrain for propulsion, delivering a balance between power and fuel efficiency, with a rating of 27/35 mpg.
The engine is a 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-four producing 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. It pairs up with a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The feel of the brake pedal isn’t bad, but test drivers agree a more refined transmission would be nice.
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This compact gem has received a captivating facelift. From its sleek, elongated headlights to the well-defined contours that grace its nose and body, the Forte exudes a sporty demeanor that's hard to ignore.
For the most part, the 2023 Kia Forte offers an excellent value proposition. That’s not exactly surprising considering the Korean automaker has a reputation for offering impressive features at a reasonable price point. Whether you opt for the base models or the higher trims, you'll find that the Forte delivers a compelling feature-to-dollar ratio.
Where you really get to the sweet spot of power in a compact package is the Forte GT trim. The GT kicks it with a 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-four engine capable of making an impressive 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. It's available with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission or a six-speed manual for true driving enthusiasts.
The DCT-equipped Forte GT models achieve a respectable 27/35 mpg, while the manual transmission offers 22/31 mpg. Not bad at all. The GT’s turbocharged powertrain successfully transforms the Forte into a little dynamo that handles corners with grace.
The Kia Forte trims include LX, LXS, and GT-Line, equipped with a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated inline-four engine that generates 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. That power travels to the asphalt via a CVT automatic transmission and front-wheel drivetrain.
Fuel economy is commendable, with the base model achieving 30/41 mpg city/highway, while the LXS and GT-Line offer 28/39 mpg.
Do we have any complaints? Test drivers report a stiff suspension applicable to both the 1.6- and 2.0-liter variants. We’d say the sportier handling makes up for this deficiency, but you can always opt for rivals with better road manners, such as the Honda Civic. The catch? They typically cost more than the Forte.
4. Hyundai VELOSTER (Turbo 1.6T, Turbo R-Spec, Turbo Ultimate)
- Horsepower: 201 HP
- Starting MSRP: $18,900
Overview:
The 2021 Hyundai Veloster offers a quirky three-door hatchback experience. It comes with an optional 201-hp engine and desirable standard features. The Veloster’s unique personality sets it apart, but fuel economy and cargo space are limited.
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The 2021 Hyundai Veloster is a distinctive three-door hatchback that blends affordability and driving excitement. While thrill-seekers might gravitate towards the wilder Veloster N model (now discontinued), the standard version has its appeal, offering an optional 201-hp engine and impressive performance.
Inside the Veloster, you'll find a cabin that, while not quite on par with some rivals like the Mazda3 and Volkswagen Golf in terms of interior quality, still manages to shine. Hyundai has packed this hatchback with an array of desirable standard features intended to elevate the ownership experience.
Highlights include automatic high beams, automated emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and a user-friendly touchscreen infotainment system equipped with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Do we have any complaints? Well, we shouldn’t be disappointed with the Veloster’s relatively modest cargo space as we can’t imagine its fans care about that. What we do find disappointing is that the Veloster failed to lead its class in fuel efficiency.
In any case, the Veloster’s appeal largely comes from its unique personality. It stands out with its quirky design and enjoyable driving dynamics, making it a vehicle that resonates with those seeking something different.
You will find that sweet spot of performance in a compact size via the VELOSTER Turbo 1.6T, Turbo R-Spec, and Turbo Ultimate variants. These models rock a turbocharged 1.6-liter I4 engine that makes an exhilarating 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque.
This power is harnessed through a 7-speed double-clutch automatic transmission, powering the front wheels and delivering a thrilling driving experience.
5. 2023 Hyundai ELANTRA GT (N Line)
- Horsepower: 201 HP
- Starting MSRP: $24,455
Overview:
The 2023 Hyundai Elantra GT combines efficiency with a clean design. While it came to the market with promises of sportiness but mostly failed to deliver as expected, the Elantra GT is still a compelling small car for several reasons.
You could start with the excellent fuel economy and cargo space, which are practical aspects of the car that make it good for the money.
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The Elantra GT compact hatchback is currently not sold officially in the US, but milk from the grapevine says the Japanese automaker might just bring it – or a version of it – to North America.
Based on the global i30 platform, the Elantra GT has a history dating back to its origins as the Elantra Touring in 2009. The car’s elegant design lays claim to cleanliness and efficiency. It’s just that while the GT name suggests a touch of sportiness, gearheads might find the performance doesn’t quite match the level of a true enthusiast car.
However, it compensates with excellent fuel efficiency, leading-class cargo space, and a generous offering of high-end standard features, all providing remarkable value for your investment.
In any case, the Elantra GT pacify customers with a need for speed with its N Line variant. Equipped with a turbocharged 1.6-liter I4 engine, the Elantra GT N Line generates a spirited 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque.
This power gets harnessed through an FWD and a 7-speed double-clutch automatic transmission to deliver a dynamic driving experience.
Related Reading: Meet The Small But Mighty 500-Horsepower Telo Truck MT1, A New Electric Pickup By US Startup Company
6. 2023 Mini Hardtop 2 Door
- Horsepower: 189 HP
- Starting MSRP: $24,250
Overview:
The Mini Cooper 2 Door inherits the charm of the original Minis with a modern twist. Featuring minor updates, it continues to offer playfulness and performance. However, the Mini is showing its age with a design that hasn't seen a refresh for nine long years.
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With the 2023 Mini, you don’t have to settle for a mundane daily commute, not when you can infuse it with joy and personality. This spirited hatchback carries the essence of the iconic Minis from the 1960s, blending it seamlessly with modern engineering and technology inherited from its parent company, BMW.
It uses the cutting-edge iDrive infotainment system, though not the latest version. The updates include the newly-introduced Resolute Edition, which primarily brings fresh color palette options, but the Mini generally maintains its unique character.
The Mini Hardtop 2 Door’s main trim levels include the Cooper, Cooper S, and John Cooper Works (JCW), of which the Cooper S is reportedly the most fun to drive because it blends the more powerful 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with a lighter 2-door body style.
Admittedly, the Mini is more on style than actual mettle but that doesn't mean it should only wear pink. In fact, the car's impressive handling prowess is why we think it's a perfect ride for a newbie enthusiast.
Besides the three trims mentioned above, the 2023 Mini Hardtop 2 Door also has an all-electric sibling called Cooper SE. Beyond these four models, shoppers can still rummage through a couple of sub-trims, including the Signature and Iconic.
In fact, a major selling point of the 2023 Mini, if you ask us, is the numerous customization options intended to leave each customer with a very personalized enthusiast car.
Paired with an automatic gearbox, the Cooper S raced to 60 mph in 6.5 seconds, almost as fast as the venerable VW Golf GTI. The top speed is 145 mph, and the EPA-estimated fuel economy is 31 mpg combined city/highway driving, pretty good for its class and segment.
7. Volkswagen Beetle (2.0T Final Edition SE, 2.0T Final Edition SEL, 2.0T S, 2.0T SE)
- Horsepower: 174 HP
- Starting MSRP: $23,045
Overview:
The 2019 Final Edition marked the end of the iconic Volkswagen Beetle. It was available as a coupe or convertible with unique Final Edition touches. Its motivation comes from a 2.0-liter turbocharged I4 engine delivering 174 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque.
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If you were happy to bid farewell to the Beetle, you’re probably the only one. We were, and still are, sad to see the classic German icon go and hope it makes a comeback in an electrified format. The fact that the iconic Beetle had briefly disappeared before gives us hope that it will be back – again.
We remember, not with fondness, when the original air-cooled Beetle ceased production in some markets back in 2003, with VW commemorating the milestone with the Última Edición. VW would later killed the Beetle one last time in 2019, sealing the kill with the Final Edition.
The Final Edition is available in both coupe and convertible body styles, powered by a 2.0-liter, turbocharged I4 engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The same 174-hp powerplant motivates the Volkswagen Beetle 2.0T Final Edition SE, 2.0T Final Edition SEL, 2.0T S, and 2.0T SE configurations.
The peak torque is 184 lb-ft, with power reaching its zenith at 5,000 rpm and torque peaking at 1,500 rpm. The power travels to the front wheels through a responsive 6-speed shiftable automatic transmission.
These Final Edition models boast distinctive touches, including unique exterior colors reminiscent of those offered on the Última Edición – Safari Uni and Stonewashed Blue. The interior reveals diamond-stitched leather seats, metal scuff plates, stainless-steel pedals, special wheels, and a dash panel bathed in the nostalgic Safari Uni hue.
Admittedly, the Final Edition isn’t the most formidable compact powerhouse, but it compensates with distinctive styling and a rich history sure to leave an indelible mark on automotive enthusiasts. According to TrueCar, prices for a used 2019 Volkswagen Beetle currently range from $18,427 to $42,988.
8. 2023 Toyota Corolla (LE, SE, SE Nightshade Edition, XSE)
- Horsepower: 169 HP
- Starting MSRP: $21,700
Overview:
The 2023 Toyota Corolla received a refresh with revised styling and more tech. It offers various powertrain options, including a 169-hp 2.0-liter I4. This year, the world-famous Corolla introduces an AWD enthusiast hot-hatch called the GR Corolla.
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Renowned for its reliability and affordability, the Toyota Corolla has stood as one of Toyota's top-selling compact cars for over five decades. The 12th generation of this enduring model made its debut in 2019, and now, in 2023, it undergoes a refreshing transformation.
This refresh encompasses revised exterior styling, an infusion of cutting-edge technology, and a boost in power for its most popular trim level. Available in both sedan and hatchback configurations, the 2023 Corolla caters to a wide range of preferences, offering a variety of powertrain options that include naturally aspirated, turbocharged, and hybrid setups.
Among the latest additions is the highly anticipated GR Corolla, an all-wheel-drive hot hatch that inherits its capabilities from the coveted global-market GR Yaris. Furthermore, the Corolla Hybrid lineup for 2023 expands with the introduction of four new trim levels.
These additions come accompanied by a more potent hybrid system and the availability of an all-wheel-drive option, offering even greater versatility to Corolla enthusiasts. Since this article is about power in a compact package, the go-to 2023 Corolla variants are the LE, SE, SE Nightshade Edition, and XSE configurations, all relying on a spirited 2.0-liter I4 engine.
This powerplant generates a maximum of 169 horsepower and delivers a peak torque of 151 lb-ft. Of course, the GR is the most powerful Corolla, equipped with a 300-hp turbocharged 3-cylinder engine that sends it from rest to 60 mph in less than 5 seconds. Well, the GR isn’t on this list because it crosses the $30,000 threshold – by a long margin, actually.
9. 2023 Subaru Impreza (Base, Premium, Sport)
- Horsepower: 152 HP
- Starting MSRP: $21,095
Overview:
The 2023 Subaru Impreza is a decent compact car with standard all-wheel drive. It comes in both sedan and hatchback variants with various trim levels. While the Impreza offers a spunky ride, it faces tough competition in terms of fuel efficiency.
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Seeing as this article is about the most powerful small cars, the 2023 Subaru Impreza isn’t extraordinary. However, it emerges as a solid choice in the compact car segment considering its price range. It is the smallest member of Subaru's lineup and is available in both sedan and hatchback body styles.
Notably, all Impreza variants come equipped with standard all-wheel drive, ensuring confident handling regardless of road conditions. The interior design prioritizes practicality and straightforward functionality, while a comprehensive array of safety features, including driver-assistance technologies in CVT-equipped models, enhances peace of mind.
Buyers can opt for either a manual gearbox or a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). While gearheads would prize the manual gearbox, it's worth noting that the five-speed manual option may not offer the precision enthusiasts seek. Additionally, fuel efficiency takes a slight hit with the manual, although even with the CVT, the Impreza faces challenges competing with more fuel-efficient rivals.
Be as it may, the 2023 Subaru Impreza presents a well-rounded choice for a variety of driving needs despite these minor drawbacks. The Base, Premium, and Sport configurations rely on a 2.0-liter H4 (Horizontally-Opposed / Flat-Four) engine.
This powerplant delivers a maximum of 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque, with power surging at 6,000 rpm and torque peaking at 4,000 rpm. The Impreza's confident power is transferred to all four wheels through a CVT, ensuring traction and stability in various driving scenarios.
10. 2023 Nissan Sentra (S, SR, SV)
- Horsepower: 149 HP
- Starting MSRP: $20,050
Overview:
The 2023 Nissan Sentra made this list mostly because it is an affordable small sedan with a focus on safety and value. Though the engine feels underpowered, the 2023 Sentra features a lot of modern tech.
If you can overlook the lackluster performance, you'll find the Sentra an affordable, comfortable, and stylish option in the compact sedan segment.
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The 2023 Nissan Sentra proves itself as a compelling choice among small sedans by excelling in key aspects that matter most to drivers.
With its stylish design, comfortable interior, and an abundance of features, the Sentra offers a well-rounded package appealing to a wide range of buyers. If safety and value top your list of priorities, the Sentra makes an even more compelling case.
This small sedan doesn't shy away from packing in numerous features for the price, and it's well-equipped with modern safety technology. Admittedly, the Sentra's performance is unremarkable, and it falls short in some other areas as well.
The engine's power output is on the modest side, the infotainment system lags in terms of modernity, and the braking distances are reportedly longer than average.
In any case, the 2023 Nissan Sentra comes in various trim levels, including the S, SR, and SV. All three get their motivation from a 2.0-liter I4 engine that delivers a modest of 149 horsepower and 146 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm.
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