I’m a Car Expert: 3 Most Improved Compact Cars That Are Now Worth Your Money
It’s no secret that cars — compact or otherwise — have become more expensive. According to ConsumerReports, the average cost of a new car was over $48,000 in 2023. In comparison, new cars cost closer to $42,000 in 2021 and $38,000 in 2020.
Inflation is a major factor in the increasing price of cars, but consumers’ purchasing habits and personal financial concerns are also up there. There’s also the fact that some manufacturers have discontinued more budget-friendly or entry-level vehicles.
For You: These 10 Used Cars Will Last Longer Than an Average New Vehicle
Find Out: 10 New Cars To Avoid Buying in 2025
Fortunately, some compact cars have maintained their relatively low price point — and some that have been traditionally viewed as unreliable or cost-sinking have improved in recent years to become good bargains.
GOBankingRates spoke with Joe Giranda, director of sales and marketing at CFR Classic, about which compact cars he thinks are worth your money.
Kia Forte
Starting price: $19,990 (2024)
“Compact cars have come a long way in recent years, with several models turning around their reputations,” said Giranda. One such vehicle is the Kia Forte.
“I remember when Kia was primarily known for low-budget vehicles that didn’t always have the best reputation for longevity,” he continued. “But the brand has made a major push to improve quality and reliability, and the Forte is a great example of that shift.”
More recent models have the safety features, fuel efficiency and vehicular warranties buyers are looking for.
“For me, it’s one of the best values in the compact car market today,” Giranda said.
The 2024 Kia Forte scored 85 out of 100 on J.D. Power’s reliability and quality scale. In comparison, the 2017 model only scored 76 out of 100.
Be Aware: Mechanics Explain Why You Should Never Buy These 6 Popular Car Brands
Ford Focus
Price estimate $18,825 (used)
“It’s fair to say that the Focus had a bit of a rough start, with early models being plagued by transmission and electrical issues,” said Giranda. “However, in recent years, Ford made significant improvements in both design and reliability.”
He said that later models, particularly those that came out after 2015, are generally more dependable and fuel-efficient than older ones. They also offer a smooth driving experience, which makes the Ford Focus a reliable and affordable vehicle.
J.D. Power ranked the 2018 Ford Focus 76 out of 100 for reliability and quality. Newer models also get great fuel economy, with around 40 mpg on the highway.
Volkswagen Jetta
Starting price: $21,995 (2025)
Next up is the Volkswagen Jetta, a compact car that’s been around in some form or another since the 1970s.
“I think the Volkswagen Jetta deserves a mention,” said Giranda. “The Jetta, especially in the early 2000s, was known for its expensive repair costs and electrical issues. … The recent models are much more reliable, offer a fun driving experience and still maintain that European feel without the European price tag. It’s a solid choice for those who want a bit of flair in their compact car.”
On J.D. Power, the 2025 Volkswagen Jetta has a reliability and quality score of 78 out of 100.
Choosing a Reliable Compact Car
If you’re in the market for a compact car, whether it’s new or used, you’ll want something that’s reliable. Here’s what you should consider as you shop around, according to Giranda:
Reliability ratings: “Look at reliability ratings from trusted sources like Consumer Reports, J.D. Power or even the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety),” he said. “These organizations provide detailed reports based on user feedback and extensive testing, giving you an idea of which models have a solid reputation for reliability.”
Warranty coverage: “A good warranty can be a strong indicator of a manufacturer’s confidence in their product,” said Giranda. “Brands like Kia and Hyundai, for example, offer industry-leading warranties.” Choose a vehicle with a longer warranty if you plan to keep it for a long time.
Test drive: If possible, do a test drive. “It will give you a feel for how the car handles, and you can check for anything that might seem off, such as odd noises or rough shifting,” Giranda said.
Vehicle’s history: If you’re getting a pre-owned vehicle, ask the dealership for a history report. Be sure to ask about any recent recalls.
More From GOBankingRates
This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: I’m a Car Expert: 3 Most Improved Compact Cars That Are Now Worth Your Money
