Compact vs. Subcompact Cars
The main difference between subcompact and compact cars is the size. Factors like cost, safety, and fuel efficiency are different between the two, as well.
Written by Shannon Fitzgerald
Reviewed by Carrie Adkins
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Table of Contents
- Compact vs. subcompact interiors
- Fuel efficiency
- Cost
- Safety
- Insurance cost
- Saving money on insurance with Jerry
- FAQs
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If you’re trying to rent or buy, you may be debating between a compact or subcompact car. While the two are very similar, the main difference is that a subcompact is slightly smaller. Additionally, you’ll want to consider the difference in cost, safety, and fuel efficiency when making your decision.
Because of their different features, the
car insurance
costs for compact and subcompact cars are likely to be different, as well. Luckily, Jerry
can help! In under a minute, Jerry’s free-to-use app combs through 50+ top insurance companies to find the cheapest quotes without cutting coverage. With insurance taken care of, here’s a rundown of what to consider when deciding between a compact and subcompact car.
Compact vs. subcompact interiors
While it sounds like there could be a large distinction, the interior space of a compact car may only be marginally bigger than a subcompact car. By definition, the volume between passenger and cargo areas in a compact car measures 100-109 cubic feet. The volume between these areas for a subcompact car is 85-99 cubic feet.
In reality, this difference isn’t huge—in fact, many modern “subcompact” cars are the same size as “compact” cars of the ‘90s.
That said, it’s useful to keep in mind some nuances that may affect comfort levels. Some subcompact cars, for example, only have two doors, which may make it tricky to climb into the back seats or
set up a car seat
. Passenger space
Both compact and subcompact cars can seat around four to five passengers.
It’s worth noting, however, passenger space distribution varies considerably on a car-to-car basis—not necessarily a class-to-class one. The 2014 Honda Fit, for example, measures 60” in height while the 2014 Honda Civic only measures 56”. Though the Fit is a subcompact, it seems roomier to passengers than the compact Civic because it has more headspace.
To get a better idea of the cabin proportions, see if you can test out the car in person. If that’s not an option, research the
car you’ve got in mind
online. Look for wide doors and ease in getting in and out of the back seats of the car in video demos. RECOMMENDED
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Cargo Space
Cargo space varies car-by-car, too. Hatchbacks, both compact and subcompact, tend to have a split-fold rear seat, which can be more helpful for transporting long items like skis or fishing poles.
In general, you should note how frequently you travel with other passengers and how much space you typically need for luggage or groceries. The answer can inform your decision heavily, and may even push you toward a larger car like a
midsize or compact SUV
. If you regularly travel and need ample luggage space, look for fold-down seats in the back and a wide trunk opening.
Fuel efficiency
Smaller cars have smaller gas tanks, but this doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll be saving at the gas pump if you purchase a subcompact over a compact.
Compact models can often have more fuel efficiency or equal fuel efficiency compared to subcompact models—with the added benefit of extra legroom.
Larger cars tend to be longer, which creates a shape—like a teardrop—that controls airflow better. Less wind resistance means less gas needed to go, so you’ll fill up less in the long run.
That said, a subcompact car is in no way a gas guzzler. A smaller car has a lighter weight, which contributes toward
better fuel economy
, too. Transmission is another aspect that factors into fuel economy. Smaller cars often have a wider range of gears, which can help optimize the engine for better fuel economy. This is also true of hybrids or electric cars.
However, the specific fuel efficiency of a car can depend on make and model, so your best bet is to research specific cars’ fuel efficiencies online.
Key Takeaway: Compact models can have better fuel efficiency, mostly due to aerodynamics. But this isn’t always the case.
Cost
Cost is another factor to consider when deciding between a subcompact and compact vehicle. Basic subcompact models go for around $13,000, whereas similar compact models will usually cost $2,000-$3,000 more.
This is true of more high-end models as well. Even with all the bells and whistles, subcompact cars cost a couple thousand less than their best compact equivalent.
If you’re on a tight budget, subcompacts may be the better option for you. But, you’ll also want to consider the costs of potential repairs down the line.
Older models for both compacts and subcompacts will likely have necessary repairs. It’s worth a look at their typical maintenance costs to save your wallet in the future.
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Safety
Though both compact and subcompact cars have several safety features in place today, larger vehicles are typically safer vehicles.
As a whole, subcompact cars have less protective capabilities—mostly because there is less material to protect passengers from collisions. A bigger car, like an SUV,
provides much more security
in the event of a crash. However, today’s subcompact models have added protection through collision-prevention features. The addition of backup cameras, lane departure alerts, blind-spot and cross-traffic alerts, collision warnings, and automatic emergency braking have all made subcompacts much safer than they have been in the past.
As always, to get the best read on a specific vehicle’s safety, check out the car’s safety ratings online.
Insurance cost
While it may seem like smaller cars would cost less to insure, this is not always the case.
Because smaller cars have higher rates of accidents than larger vehicles, their insurance typically runs higher, too.
Statistics indicate that this is due to higher rates of speed by younger,
riskier drivers
who are more drawn toward small, sporty cars. Size, it seems, plays a big role in insurance cost, which makes it an important factor to consider.
Saving money on insurance with Jerry
All is not lost on your subcompact or compact car dreams, though.
Despite the higher insurance rates of subcompact and compact vehicles, you can still find cheap policies without cutting coverage through
Jerry
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top insurance companies
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FAQs
Is a subcompact smaller than a compact car?
Yes—in terms of volume, the interior spaces of subcompact cars measure 85-99 cubic feet total. Compact cars measure 100-109 cubic feet total.
What is considered subcompact?
A subcompact car is any passenger vehicle whose combined passenger and cargo volume measures between 85-99 cubic feet. The term “subcompact” refers to a vehicle size class.
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