2014 BMW i3
The 2014 BMW i3 looks and feels like the compact car of the future, but its high price tag will be a huge sticking point for thrifty small-EV drivers.
2015 Volvo V60
The 2015 Volvo V60 T6 R-design makes for a strong multipurpose vehicle, offering excellent utility for shopping errands and refined handling, but the smaller engined V60 T5 Drive-E is the more economical choice.
2016 Volkswagen Golf R Variant
Five doors and 300 horsepower is a good mix for those who want their practicality with a strong dose of performance.
2015 Ford Focus Electric
Three years after its predecessor debuted, the 2015 Ford Focus Electric is still a good choice for a compact battery-powered car, but the newer competition offers slightly greater range and faster charging.
2015 Volkswagen e-Golf
The 2014 Volkswagen e-Golf is a solid electric car, offering comfort and good driving dynamics, but its range and feature set do not distinguish it in any particular way from its competitors.
2014 Nissan Juke NISMO RS
The 2015 Nissan Juke Nismo RS confers bragging rights for its 215 horsepower engine, but the lesser trim Juke Nismo looks like a better value for those wanting a funky compact SUV with excellent handling.
2015 Kia Soul EV
Electrification transforms the 2015 Kia Soul EV, already one of the automaker's best cars, into an excellent first entry into the small EV market and rockets it to the head of its class.
2014 BMW 328d xDrive Sports Wagon
The 2014 BMW 328d xDrive Sports Wagon combines 40+ mpg diesel efficiency, the flexibility of a wagon, and the thrills of a driver's car.
2013 Ferrari FF
With an all-wheel-drive system, more than two seats, and cargo space, the FF holds a few SUV characteristics, but its handling and engine note are pure Ferrari.
2014 Fiat 500L
Though big for a Fiat model, the 2014 Fiat 500L is still small for a wagon or crossover that boasts so much interior volume. However, limited tech and performance have us reconsidering the competition.
2015 Volkswagen Golf GTI
With its new Drive Modes feature, the new GTI goes from comfortable urban runabout to canyon carver at the push of a button.
2014 Scion tC
The 2014 Scion tC delivers a strong power-train and a well-sorted suspension on a budget, leaving it to the driver to add most of the tech via the aftermarket.
2013 Honda Fit EV
The Honda Fit EV shows range similar to that of other compact electric cars on the market and drives well enough, but ultimately feels like a retrofit project car rather than a fully realized futuristic production vehicle.
2014-ford-fiesta-st
Inexpensive yet high-performing, the 2014 Ford Fiesta ST rewards people who enjoy driving, while cabin electronics support all those mundane tasks that need doing when not on a twisty back road.
2014 Audi RS 7
Comfortable, high-tech, and fairly efficient, the Audi RS 7 is a total-package car with a healthy dose of horsepower.
2015 Ford Focus
Ford's chosen to unveil it's new compact at Mobile World Congress, a week ahead of the big auto show in Geneva. It packs better tech inside, new driver aids, and a subtly revised exterior.
2014 Ford Fiesta
With its 1.6-liter engine, the 2014 Ford Fiesta makes for a mild-mannered urban runabout, but Sync and MyFord Touch add some compelling tech features.
2014 Chevrolet Spark EV
Like other electric cars, the 2014 Chevrolet Spark EV offers limited usage scenarios due to its range, but its drivetrain is ultraefficient and surprisingly powerful.