The Big Test: 2014 Compact Sedans

In our most recent small sedan tests, we reported on the class' progress in overtaking midsize sedans to become the best-selling car segment, opining that perhaps this signaled a convergence in North American and European tastes. C-cars rule over there, and wouldn't we feel that much more virtuous, parsimonious, and efficient if we'd all just squish into smaller cars? Nah. Our roomy parking lots and boulevards fit bigger cars, and bigger cars fit us better. Besides, newfound energy reserves have brought our nation closer than ever to energy independence, and with gas prices still a fraction of Europe's, we feel less compelled to downsize. Nevertheless, the compact C segment grew 7.8 percent last year, while midsize C/D sales barely wiggled. Might stylish, highly equipped, great-driving compact cars now be making the grade on their merits and features, rather than on moral or fiscal imperatives? To wit: Today's compacts offer S-Class-worthy gear such as adaptive cruise control, collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, all-LED headlamps, and full telematics connectivity. For this gathering we aimed for the heart of the segment, establishing a $22,500 base-price ceiling, with an as-tested price target of $25K. The guest list started with the defending champ Kia Forte (EX), to which we added the all-new Mazda3 (i Touring) and Toyota Corolla (LE Eco Plus), the freshened Hyundai Elantra (Limited—restyled, upgraded nav, infotainment, and telematics) and Honda Civic (EX—new CVT, user interface), and VW Jetta (SE—new 1.8-liter turbo). Then, because our last Dodge Dart finished third despite our carping about its 1.4T engine and dry dual-clutch tranny, we invited a 2.4-liter GT with a regular six-speed automatic. We also invited a Ford Focus, because its maligned DDTC trans has since been reprogrammed, but none was available.

What about the Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cruze, Nissan Sentra, Subaru Impreza, and Mitsubishi Lancer? Read the accompanying WOT story HERE. The zippy little Forte also acquitted itself well on the curves of Mulholland Highway, with a ride that managed to feel firm and well-buttoned, without jiggling our giblets over the rough stuff. The Forte impressed Reynolds on the figure-eight course, demonstrating "the Elantra's solidity and refinement with a slightly nimbler feel and tremendously improved steering," though its performance in that test was mid-pack, partly because of its lateral grip of 0.80 g, which put it in last place. Dealer Pricing Research & Reviews Loan Quote Select Make Select Model

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