The Enduring Allure of Small Cars in an SUV-Centric Market
While SUVs dominate the automotive landscape today, we must not overlook the charm and practicality of smaller passenger vehicles still available for discerning consumers.
Spotlight on the BYD Dolphin Premium
As we reflect on the automotive offerings of 2024, we’ve curated a list of the five top-rated small cars reviewed this year, with a keen eye on affordability. Each entry on our list is priced below $40,000, a category that aligns with the latest VFACTS sales data. Though we’ve examined several higher-end models, this article is dedicated to those that provide excellent value.
Notably, some of these vehicles have undergone multiple assessments this year. We’ve focused on showcasing the variant that garnered the highest praise.
Prices cited are reflective of manufacturer configurators, based on a Victorian postcode, offering an accurate estimate for the average Australian consumer.
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Mazda 3 G20 Touring | Subaru Impreza 2.0L
For detailed specifications, click on the car names in the table above, or continue scrolling for the full analysis.
Toyota Corolla
The base model of the Toyota Corolla has emerged as a formidable contender in the compact sedan category. Marketplace editor James Wong awarded it an impressive score of 8.5 out of 10, thanks to its exceptional fuel efficiency and user-friendly interior—features that shine in the Ascent Sport variant we examined.
This model excelled in metrics related to ownership costs and safety. Its ride quality and handling were also highlighted as strong attributes. Given its reliable Toyota pedigree, we anticipate that new owners will enjoy years of dependable service from this vehicle.
However, we noted its somewhat uninspired driving experience as a drawback, along with concerns around supply chains that may affect availability.
Overall, the Corolla Ascent Sport presents a solid entry into Toyota’s acclaimed lineup.
Full review of the Toyota Corolla Ascent Sport Hybrid available here.
Toyota Corolla Ascent Sport Hybrid
CarExpert Rating: 8.5
Victorian Drive-Away Price: $37,254
Pros: Affordable, efficient, spacious.
Cons: Basic interior aesthetics, potential supply challenges.
If you’re considering a Toyota Corolla, connect with one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers here.
MORE: Everything Toyota Corolla
Hyundai i30
The i30 lineup thrived in 2024, with numerous variants earning a near-universal score of 8.4. The standout, the i30 Hatch N Line, was particularly lauded for its nimble handling and spirited engine performance, although its price point raised concerns about value for an entry-level model.
The base i30 Sedan marked an entry point into the range with a drive-away price under $30,000. While it offered generous second-row space and a commendable engine, it exhibited areas of cost-cutting and was hampered by an overzealous speed limit assist feature.
Meanwhile, the i30 Sedan N Line impressed with its price-to-spec ratio and stylish design but echoed complaints about its interior finishes. At the top end, the i30 Sedan N was celebrated for exhilarating performance, though its speed limit assist and turning radius left room for improvement.
Access our full reviews of these top-rated Hyundai i30 models below:
Hyundai i30
CarExpert Rating: 8.4
Victorian Drive-Away Price: $29,990 – $56,790
If you’re interested in a Hyundai i30, connect with CarExpert’s trusted dealers here.
MORE: Everything Hyundai i30
BYD Dolphin
Our marketplace journalist Josh Nevett awarded the BYD Dolphin Premium a commendable score of 8.2. While we acknowledge that its design may suit a specific taste, we were impressed by its ingenious interior layout and extensive standard features. Its efficiency and ownership costs were also highlights.
The Dolphin boasts a 150 kW powertrain, delivering adequate performance for urban driving. However, we found its driver assistance technology wanting, especially its semi-autonomous features that struggled with lane maintenance on freeways. Wind noise was also a noted drawback during highway travel.
Despite some shortcomings in material quality, the Dolphin emerges as a worthy contender in the budget-friendly electric hatchback segment.
Read our full review of the BYD Dolphin Premium here.
BYD Dolphin Premium
CarExpert Rating: 8.2
Victorian Drive-Away Price: $42,890
Pros: Clever interior, extensive standard features.
Cons: Inconsistent driver assist tech, elevated wind noise on highways, varied material quality.
Interested in purchasing a BYD Dolphin? Engage with one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers here.
MORE: Everything BYD Dolphin
Mazda 3
The Mazda 3 continues to hold its ground in the compact market, securing a rating of 8.0. Its stylish design is complemented by a suite of advanced technology for safety and infotainment, particularly in our mid-tier variant equipped with the Vision Technology Package.
With a 2.0-liter engine, its performance is acceptable, albeit not groundbreaking. Yet, it offers confident handling with a sporty flair, enhancing the overall driving experience. Some drawbacks include a slightly cramped cabin and sensitivity in its driver monitoring system, but the Mazda 3 remains a strong competitor.
Read our full review of the Mazda 3 G20 Touring here.
Mazda 3 G20 Touring
CarExpert Rating: 8.0
Victorian Drive-Away Price: $41,894
Pros: Stylish design, rich in technology.
Cons: Limited cabin space, overactive driver monitoring.
If you’re in the market for a Mazda 3, reach out to CarExpert’s trusted dealers here.
MORE: Everything Mazda 3
Subaru Impreza
Closing out our top five is the Subaru Impreza in its base 2.0L form, which received a score of 7.8. Subaru has steadfastly included the Impreza in its offerings, presenting a naturally aspirated boxer engine paired with all-wheel drive.
This reliable combination provides a comfortable ride, bolstered by well-tuned safety features and respectable interior technology, especially for a base model. Its competitive pricing is another attractive factor.
However, while its engine performs adequately, it lacks the excitement found in some rivals. The Impreza offers commendable space, but its boot is somewhat constrained, and the use of a urethane steering wheel instead of leather in the base variant felt like an oversight.
Explore our full review of the Subaru Impreza 2.0L here.
Subaru Impreza 2.0L
CarExpert Rating: 7.8
Victorian Drive-Away Price: $33,990
Pros: Comfort in diverse conditions, substantial interior tech.
Cons: Standard engine performance, limited boot space, less luxurious steering wheel.
If you’re considering a Subaru Impreza, connect with CarExpert’s trusted dealers here.
MORE: Everything Subaru Impreza
In a market increasingly skewed toward larger vehicles, these small cars prove that there remains a vibrant demand for compact, practical, and efficient alternatives on our roadways.
Source:www.carexpert.com.au
