Best small cars in Australia

Looking for a new set of wheels that won’t break the bank or leave you hunting for parking for hours?

Whether you're navigating tight city streets or just after something zippy for weekend adventures, a small car can be the perfect solution. Compact, efficient, and often surprisingly spacious cars are something of a favourite with Aussie drivers.

But, with so many options on the market, how do you know which one’s right for you?

We’ve got you covered with a no-nonsense comparison of the best small cars in Australia. From budget-friendly picks, to luxury options with all the bells and whistles, let's dive into this small car guide to help select the wheels that are right for you.

The benefits of owning a small car in Australia

Small cars pack a punch when it comes to practicality, making them an ideal choice for many Australian drivers. First off, they’re easy to manoeuvre, which is a game-changer when you’re navigating busy city streets or squeezing into tight parking spots.

They’re also generally more fuel-efficient than their larger counterparts, so you’ll save some serious coin at the pump. Plus, their compact size means they're usually lighter and more nimble, giving you a smooth and responsive driving experience, whether you’re zipping around town or taking on a coastal road trip.

And don’t be fooled by their size – many small cars are surprisingly spacious on the inside, offering plenty of room for your gear or your mates without feeling cramped. So, if you're after a wallet-friendly, easy-to-park, and surprisingly roomy ride, a small car could be the perfect fit.

Not all small cars are created equal

When shopping for a small car, everyone’s looking for something a little different, depending on their lifestyle and needs. For some, the top priority is fuel efficiency – with soaring petrol prices, nobody wants to be filling up every second day.

Others might focus on safety features that make every drive feel a little more secure. For families or those who frequently cart around a bunch of gear, practicality and interior space are key, even in a smaller vehicle.

Some might prioritise luxury riding and style – a sleek, stylish exterior can make a big difference in how you feel about your car.

To make this guide as helpful as possible we’ve broken down the best small cars in Australia into categories including:

• Best small reliable car
• Most affordable small car
• Best on fuel efficiency
• Safest small car
• Family friendly small car
• Luxury small car

What is the best small reliable car?

Big names like Toyota, Honda, Hyundai, Mazda, and Volkswagen are pretty safe bets when looking for reliability in a set of wheels. These brands have built reputations that go the distance, so when you roll out of the dealership, you’re not just taking home a car, you’re getting the keys to a worry-free ride.

At the top of the list of best small reliable cars in Australia is the Toyota Yaris. In fact it was voted as such in the Warrantywise annual Reliability Index. Warrantywise’s 2024 report placed the Yaris in top spot with a score of 89/100 thanks to its minimal repair costs.

The Toyota Yaris is available from $24,800 to $35,305 for the 2024 range of models in Hatchback body types.

What is the most affordable small car in Australia?

If you’re on the hunt for the most affordable small car in Australia, look no further than the new Kia Picanto Sport.

Starting at just $20,690 driveaway for the five-speed manual version, or $21,690 for the four-speed automatic, it’s a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on style or features.

The Picanto Sport is perfect for those who want a reliable, no-fuss car with a bit of personality. Despite its compact size, it’s got a modern design, a surprising amount of interior space for passengers and luggage, and tech features like a touchscreen infotainment system and Apple CarPlay.

What small cars are best on fuel?

When it comes to small cars and fuel efficiency, the Toyota Yaris gets a mention again. Powered by a 1.5-litre three-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, this tiny powerhouse is currently the fuel-efficiency champ in the small car category, with a claimed consumption of just 3.3L/100km.

This makes it a fantastic choice for anyone looking to save at the pump, whether you’re commuting through the city or taking longer trips.

Another standout in the fuel-efficient category is the Suzuki Swift, which also offers impressive economy thanks to its hybrid electric power. The Swift’s clever use of self-generated hybrid power takes fuel consumption down to just 3.8L/100km for the manual version and 4.0L/100km for the automatic.

Both cars combine the benefits of hybrid technology with the compact size of a small car, meaning you’ll get excellent mileage without compromising on performance or convenience. If keeping your fuel costs low is a priority, these two models are top contenders.

What’s the safest small car in Australia?

When it comes to safety, the BYD Dolphin is one of the standout small cars in Australia. It comes packed with advanced safety features designed to keep you and your passengers safe on the road.

The Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) system covers a variety of scenarios, including car-to-car, vulnerable road users, junctions, crossings, backover, and even head-on collisions – basically, it’s designed to help avoid accidents in almost any situation.

The Lane Support System includes Lane Keep Assist (LKA), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), and Emergency Lane Keeping (ELK), which work together to keep you safely in your lane.

Add to that the Speed Assist System (SAS) and Speed Sign Recognition, which help you stay aware of speed limits and avoid accidental speeding, and you’ve got a well-rounded safety package.

With all these features, the BYD Dolphin earned a 5-star ANCAP safety rating, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking for a safe, reliable, and tech-savvy small car.

What’s the most family friendly small car?

When it comes to finding a family-friendly small car, the Volkswagen Golf stands out as one of the top contenders in Australia. While compact in size, the Golf offers impressive interior space, making it an ideal choice for small families or those who need a practical yet stylish ride.

With ample legroom in both the front and rear seats, the Golf is comfortable for both parents and kids, and it’s easy to fit child seats without sacrificing comfort for the front passengers. The boot space is surprisingly spacious for a small car, giving you plenty of room for groceries, weekend bags, or even a pram.

In terms of safety, the Golf doesn’t disappoint. It comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features, including Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Lane Keep Assist, and Blind Spot Monitoring, ensuring that your family is protected at every turn. Plus, with a 5-star ANCAP safety rating, you can drive with peace of mind with little passengers in tow.

What’s the best luxury small car

For those seeking a luxury small car, the Mercedes-Benz A-Class is a standout option in the Australian market. Combining premium features with compact elegance, the A-Class brings a touch of sophistication and class to the small car segment, making it the perfect choice for those who want the best of both worlds: luxury and practicality.

The Mercedes-Benz A-Class boasts a beautifully crafted interior, with high-quality materials, cutting-edge technology, and a user-friendly infotainment system featuring the MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) interface. This system includes a stunning widescreen display, natural voice control, and seamless smartphone integration, making every drive feel modern and intuitive.

In terms of performance, the A-Class delivers a smooth and refined driving experience, with a range of engine options that balance power and efficiency. The ride is comfortable, yet sporty enough to provide a thrilling drive when needed, and the precise handling adds to its appeal.

Your new small car delivered anywhere in Australia

When it comes to getting your new vehicle delivered to your doorstep, Upmove makes the process simple and stress-free. Upmove connects you with a network of affordable, reliable local and interstate car transport operators from all over Australia, ensuring your car arrives safely—whether you're in the heart of the city or in a more remote location.

With Upmove, you can shop for your perfect small car with confidence, knowing that a trusted car transport service will handle the logistics and deliver it directly to your driveway.