It used to be the case that compact cars were made for small families, as in those with no kids, and smaller individuals who had no problem fitting into a small interior cabin. Today's compacts are turning those notions on their heads, as they're roomier than ever and offer more for every type of owner.
Those who have longed for the conveniences of a smaller car, but have avoided buying one because of the perceived lack of space and storage capacity, now is a good time to reconsider that option. With more focus on economy, car makers and engineers have been working hard on developing cars that have a small footprint, but still offer the amenities of a larger vehicle.
Creative approaches to storage capacity
Many of today's compact cars make it possible to carry a larger load, whether it's people or cargo. Today's compacts often come with seats that will fold down to create more space if you're transporting larger items. Compacts that come with a hatchback option offer even more room once the seats are folded down.
Better safety
One argument against smaller cars was the perception that they weren't as safe, which can be an especially important consideration for families. Technological advances have made compact cars considerably safer. For example, Kia's 2013 Forte was rated a 'Top Safety Pick' by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
Roomier for drivers and passengers
Today's compact cars are designed to easily fit four people without compromising the comfort of the driver. The Kia Forte rates well for leg room for both backseat passengers and the driver, making it a great car for both families, and drivers who want or need a lot of space.
In many ways, 'bigger is better' doesn't always apply when it comes to today's automobiles. If you're in the market for a new car and haven't considered a smaller car due to preconceived notions of what compact cars used to be, now is a great time to give them a second look.
