Which 2017 Compact Sedan Offers the Best Value and Features According to Professional Testing?

The 2017 Honda Civic emerged as the clear winner in a rigorous eight-car comparison test, outperforming rivals from Toyota, Volkswagen, and Subaru with its superior driving dynamics, high-quality interior, and impressive standard features—all for under $23,000. This comprehensive challenge, conducted by automotive experts and in-market shoppers, evaluated vehicles on criteria including real-world fuel economy, safety technology, driving experience, and interior comfort. If you're considering a used 2017 compact sedan, the results provide a definitive ranking to guide your purchase.

How Did Expert Testing Determine the Best 2017 Compact Sedan?

The evaluation, which took place on real-world roads in Texas, was designed to mirror the experience of a typical buyer. Each sedan had to meet strict entry criteria: a price under $23,000 including destination fee, an EPA combined fuel economy rating of at least 31 mpg with an automatic transmission, and more than 91 cubic feet of interior volume. The judges' scores made up 69% of the final tally, supplemented by input from real shoppers (11%), a dedicated fuel economy drive (10%), and points for available crash avoidance features (10%). This multi-faceted approach ensured the results were both objective and practical.

What Were the Key Strengths and Weaknesses of Each Competitor?

Here is a detailed breakdown of how each sedan performed, from last place to first, based on the total points awarded.

8. 2017 Chevrolet Cruze (571 points) The Cruze prioritized fuel efficiency above all else, but this focus came with significant trade-offs in comfort and value.

• What They Liked: The turbocharged 1.4-liter engine (a four-cylinder engine that uses a turbocharger to force more air into the engine for more power) delivered strong acceleration without sacrificing fuel economy, achieving a best-in-test 38.4 mpg. The cabin was noted for its roominess, and the touchscreen multimedia system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto was easy to use.
• What They Didn’t: The non-defeatable auto stop-start system (which shuts off the engine at idle to save fuel) was a major annoyance, as it reduced air conditioning performance. The Cruze also lacked available crash avoidance features at its price point, resulting in a zero score for safety technology. Thick front pillars hurt visibility.

7. 2017 Mazda3 (585 points) Praised for its sporty driving character and upscale interior, the Mazda3 was ultimately held back by its cramped cabin and noisy ride.

• What They Liked: Judges unanimously praised its excellent steering feedback and fun-to-drive nature. The interior materials were considered a cut above, with heated vinyl seats that convincingly mimicked leather.
• What They Didn’t: The small backseat was a significant drawback for passenger comfort. The multimedia system's screen looked like an afterthought and lacked modern smartphone integration. It also returned a disappointing 31.5 mpg on the test loop and had the noisiest interior of the group.

6. 2017 Hyundai Elantra (589 points) The Elantra represented outstanding value for money, packing in premium features, but its low-rent interior and mediocre driving dynamics limited its appeal.

• What They Liked: With the lowest as-tested price, it included surprises like dual-zone climate control, a power driver’s seat, and a moonroof. Its multimedia system, with physical knobs and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, was rated as first-rate.
• What They Didn’t: Cabin materials were criticized as low-budget, and the seats were uncomfortable for both short and tall drivers. Its handling was described as uninspired, with vague steering and low-grip tires.

5. 2017 Toyota Corolla (594 points) The Corolla scored points for its standard safety tech and roomy interior but felt dated compared to more dynamic rivals.

• What They Liked: Toyota’s Safety Sense-P package, which includes pre-collision warning and automatic emergency braking, was standard—a rarity in the class. The backseat was spacious and comfortable for adults.
• What They Didn’t: The driving experience was humdrum, with a drone-prone continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) (a type of automatic transmission that uses a pulley system for seamless gear changes, often criticized for a noisy, "rubber-band" feel). It also lacked Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

4. 2017 Volkswagen Jetta (645 points) The Jetta impressed with its strong turbocharged engine, massive trunk, and surprising handling prowess, though its interior quality was a letdown.

• What They Liked: The 1.4-liter turbo engine produced best-in-group torque, making it feel powerful in everyday driving. It also had the largest trunk at 15.7 cubic feet and a split-folding rear seat. Its crisp steering made it fun on winding roads.
• What They Didn’t: The interior was plagued by large swaths of hard, cheap plastic. Its fuel-efficient tires lacked grip, and the automatic transmission could be rough on downshifts.

3. 2017 Subaru Impreza (653 points) The Impreza’s unique selling point—standard all-wheel drive (AWD)—and excellent visibility were standout features, but a sluggish engine held it back.

• What They Liked: Standard AWD provides superior traction in poor weather conditions, a feature unmatched in this class. It aced child-seat installation and had the best visibility thanks to thin roof pillars. The ride was quiet and comfortable.
• What They Didn’t: The AWD system adds weight, resulting in sluggish acceleration that made passing slower traffic a patient affair. It also felt less stable on the highway than some rivals.

2. 2017 Kia Forte (674 points) The Forte was a tech-loaded contender with advanced safety features and luxury touches, though an overly harsh ride on the S trim was a major flaw.

• What They Liked: It offered a rare lane centering steering system and other active safety aids. Unexpected features like a hands-free trunk and power-folding mirrors added a luxury feel. The interior was spacious and driver-focused.
• What They Didn’t: The sport-tuned suspension on the S model delivered an uncomfortably busy and bumpy ride without a corresponding handling benefit. The front seats were also thinly padded.

1. 2017 Honda Civic (724 points) The 2017 Honda Civic won the challenge by a significant margin, feeling like a car from a more premium class due to its refinement, quality, and driving enjoyment.

• What They Liked: It was fun to drive, with a planted feel in corners and a responsive CVT. The interior was praised for its high-quality materials, clever storage solutions, and digital instrument cluster. It presented exceptional value for its $22,975 price.
• What They Didn’t: The touch-sensitive slider controls for volume in higher trims were frustrating to use. The forward collision warning system was overly sensitive, and some taller drivers desired more seat adjustment range.

What Practical Advice Can You Take From This Comparison?

Based on our assessment experience, the results of this test provide clear guidance for used car shoppers. The 2017 Honda Civic remains the top recommendation for its all-around excellence. However, your personal priorities might make another model a better fit. If you prioritize all-weather capability, the Subaru Impreza is the only choice with standard AWD. For those seeking the most features for the lowest price, the Hyundai Elantra offers incredible value. Ultimately, this head-to-head test proves that even within a competitive budget, there are distinct personalities and strengths to consider.