2011 AutoPacific Ideal Vehicle Awards: Compact Car

AutoPacific’s 2011 Ideal Vehicle Awards (IVA) are based on 73,000 surveys completed by owners of new cars and light trucks in the United States in the first half of 2011.

One of the hottest segments today, the Compact Car segment is very competitive with products being vastly improved over the past few years.  Compact cars today look to offer high fuel economy, the newest technology, and plenty of creature comforts.  Many feel anything but compact inside.  The Toyota Corolla and Chevrolet Cruze are two vehicles competing in this segment.

This year's AutoPacific IVA Compact Car winner is the 2011 Hyundai Elantra.

Read on to see the entire list of category candidates and how they scored.

*NOTE: Results for 2010 Model Year Vehicles are Included in the 2011 Model Year Research Because of Availability. Scores Are Shown Where Sample Sizes Allow

#1 Compact Car: 2011 Hyundai Elantra

Rank: #1

Score: 1241

The all new 2011 Hyundai Elantra is the top ranked Compact Car in AutoPacific’s 2011 Ideal Vehicle Research.  As the class winner, its owners indicate there is little they would change about the car with only a few notable exceptions.  About 30% of Elantra owners want improved visibility (somewhat compromised by the swoopy styling of the new body).  About 25% want more power and a softer ride.  About 20% want more infotainment technology.  Elantra owners most like the Elantra for its seat comfort, styling and exterior size.  Elantra outpoints the second place Volkswagen Golf by a wide margin.

#2 Compact Car: 2011 Volkswagen Golf

Rank: #2

Score: 1216

Whether found in gasoline or ultra-efficient turbodiesel trim, the 2011 Volkswagen Golf remains a compact car favorite. A comfortable and composed ride, the practicality of its hatchback design and generous power and torque work together with the Golf’s natural agility on the road to turn in an all-around, almost-class-leading performance.

#3 Compact Car: VW New Beetle (2010)

Rank: #3

Score: 1196

The 2010 Volkswagen New Beetle is still turning heads with its retro-inspired design. Available as either a hatchback or a convertible, the New Beetle keeps things simple with a single four-cylinder drivetrain choice and a long list of standard features. Due to be replaced in the near future, the next-generation New Beetle is being eagerly awaited by the current model’s fan base.

#4 Compact Car: 2011 Chevrolet Cruze

Rank: #4

Score: 1189

The 2011 Chevrolet Cruze has finally given General Motors a compact car that the company can be proud of. The Cruze does everything entry-level sedan buyers need it to do, and its very efficient four-cylinder choices and an interior that is actually large enough to qualify it as a mid-size automobile are great indications of why so many shoppers are parking examples of the Cruze in their driveways.

#5 Compact Car: 2011 Subaru Impreza

Rank: #5

Score: 1183

All-wheel drive is a rarity on the compact car scene, and the fact that the 2011 Subaru Impreza includes it free of charge is a major point in its favor. Also helping the Impreza work its mojo is a strong four-cylinder engine and a spacious cargo area made possible in part by its hatchback design.

#6 Compact Car: 2011 Kia Soul

Rank: #6

Score: 1179

The 2011 Kia Soul is a fun take on the quirky cube-shaped compact crossover concept. Priced to compete hard for entry-level dollars, the Kia Soul offers lighthearted daily transportation in addition to surprising practicality due to its upright design. The Soul is also fuel efficient thanks to the use of a pair of small but potent four-cylinder engines.

#7 Compact Car: 2011 Volkswagen Jetta

Rank: #7

Score: 1172

The 2011 Volkswagen Jetta is a significant departure from other versions of the compact sedan offered in years past. Larger in almost every dimension, but still offering reasonably efficient four-cylinder power, the Jetta aims to snag American drivers looking for as much passenger and cargo room as they can snag in a small car.

#8 Compact Car: 2011 Ford Focus

Rank: #8

Score: 1148

The 2011 Ford Focus had the misfortune of being offered just before a dramatically redesigned edition of the same car hits the streets. The Focus is inexpensive, comes with a decent amount of standard equipment and doesn’t suck down gas at an accelerated rate, but it’s hard to imagine too many buyers selecting the 2011 model instead of the 2012 edition that is now available.

#9 Compact Car: 2011 Chevrolet HHR

Rank: #9

Score: 1146

The 2011 Chevrolet HHR provides styling that is evocative of the panel wagons popular in the 1940’s and early 50’s. With seating for five as well as a generous amount of total cargo space with the rear row out of the picture, the HHR appeals to drivers who need significant versatility from their compact automobile.

#10 Compact Car: 2011 Mazda Mazda3

Rank: #10

Score: 1140

Fans of spirited driving will appreciate what the 2011 Mazda MAZDA3 has to offer. Whether found in sedan or hatchback form, the MAZDA3’s sport styling is matched by a chassis and suspension system that longs to be put to the test in sweeping corners. Oh, and it’s great on gas and comfortable to boot.