The Honda HR-V, all-new last year, is unchanged for 2017.The HR-V uses one of Honda's clever innovations, the so-called Magic Seat that the company also features in the related Fit hatchback. The seat has flip-up rear seat cushions that, when raised, create a tall and narrow cargo area between the front and rear seats that's great for things such as a bicycle or a flat-screen TV. With all the seats in place, there's suitable space for average-size adults, too. Besides the HR-V's flexibility, it also benefits from high fuel economy and an unobstructed outward view.
Pros Easily fits average-sized adults in front and back Clever cargo solutions make it more versatile than rivals Fuel economy figures are better than most competitors Outward visibility is excellent
Cons Unimpressive power output results in lackluster acceleration Infotainment system is not user-friendly There's an abundance of engine noise and vibration
Think of the 2017 Honda HR-V as a Fit with all-wheel drive and a little more headroom. It's not as fun as it could be, but it makes a lot of sense. The 2017 Honda HR-V is a relatively new entry into the small SUV category, but it cemented its standing as the segment's practicality-oriented choice early on thanks to Honda's almost religious devotion to interior packaging.
Pros Perky body Clever Magic Seat offers great flexibility High level of standard features Manual transmission offered Absorbent, composed ride
Cons Won't win a drag race So-so safety scores Lacks some safety tech Not as fun to drive as Hondas used to be
The 2017 Honda HR-V ranks 1 out of 12 Subcompact SUVs. The 2017 Honda HR-V ranks near the top of our subcompact SUV list thanks to its spacious cabin, quality interior, smooth ride, and excellent cargo space. This cargo space is highlighted by Honda's rear Magic Seat, which allows for multiple configurations. The HR-V also garners ample overall praise from professional auto reviewers.
Pros Flexible cargo space Spacious rear seats Quiet cabin
Cons Cumbersome available touch screen Lackluster engine
The 2018 Audi A3 ranked #13 in Luxury Small Cars. Currently the Audi A3 has a score of 8.1 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 36 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Lively acceleration, especially with upgraded engines Dynamic handling balanced with a smooth ride High-tech infotainment system and available virtual cockpit Spacious front seats
Cons Small back seat Limited cargo space in all-wheel-drive, hybrid, and convertible models
The 2018 Audi A3 is a well-equipped entry-level luxury sedan with style, performance, and content that make it a logical stepping stone for Volkswagen Golf and GTI buyers.
Pros Audi Virtual Cockpit Well-equipped for $40,000 Standard automatic emergency braking Potent 2.0-liter turbo Available in three body styles
Cons Tiny backseat/trunk Best safety equipment limited to Prestige Cute looks may limit appeal
For 2018, the A3 receives only minor changes to equipment availability. Two USB ports and heated front seats are now standard on all A3s, and blind-spot monitoring is standard on the Premium Plus trim levels.
PROS Good balance of a comfortable ride and sporty handling Strong acceleration from the turbocharged engine Refined and stylish cabin
CONS Limited backseat space Small trunk, especially with all-wheel drive