Toyota Yaris

Among the top subcompacts, the Yaris (29 city/36 highway) is virtually the most fuel efficient car on the road. And it has a travel range close to 350 miles between fill-ups. That’s about as good as it gets for a non-hybrid vehicle. It will be difficult for competitors to top the Yaris in this area.

Pricewise, it is also the leader. A paltry $11,960 will not just get you a base hatchback, but a Toyota. That’s a hard fact to ignore. The Yaris starts at $1400 less than the Versa, and $2600 less than the Fit. But keep in mind, the base model is bare bones, and the price will climb quickly when you start to add options (which you most certainly will). The Fit, in comparison, comes with more standard equipment for its higher base price.

Highly efficient, very inexpensive, and touting perhaps the most refined design of all the subcompacts, the Yaris is both economically and stylistically impressive. It’s no wonder this little car is generally considered the best of the best in its class.