Mazda3
As things now stand, four-cylinder compacts don’t get much better than the Mazda3, which is tied with the Kia Soul for second place in the U.S. News ranking of compact cars. The first place finisher, the Chevrolet Bolt EV, doesn’t qualify for this review since it is a battery-powered electric vehicle.
The Mazda3 offers two four-cylinder engines; a 2.0-liter motor rated at 155 horsepower and a 184-horsepower 2.5-liter. Either engine can be mated to a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. Whatever the drivetrain, performance and fuel economy are impressive.
However, its fun-to-drive nature is what sets the Mazda3 apart from other compact sedans and hatchbacks. The only demerit covered a tight backseat.
Kia Soul
The 2017 Kia Soul demonstrates that you don’t need to buy a utility vehicle for practicality. This compact hatchback delivers impressive cargo space.
As for its engines, the base model uses a 1.6-liter, 130-horsepower four-cylinder that delivers an adequate performance around town but will leave many drivers wanting more power. This can be had in the “+” (Plus) trim level with its standard 2.0-liter, 161-horsepower four-cylinder. The top trim level, the “!” (Exclaim), uses a peppy 201-horsepower turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder.
A six-speed manual is the standard transmission in the base model with a six-speed automatic option. This automatic is the only transmission in the +, while a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission is standard with the turbocharged engine.
Fuel economy lags compact sedans, but when measured against utility vehicles with comparable interior space, 61.3 cubic feet with the backseat folded, the Soul’s fuel consumption becomes competitive.
Honda Civic
As a sedan or hatchback, the Honda Civic is one of the best four-cylinder cars available. For sedan buyers, the Civic offers two engines; a 2.0-liter, 158-horsepower four-cylinder motor for the lower trim levels and a 174-horsepower, 1.5-liter turbo motor for the upper trim levels. Hatchbacks use this more powerful motor exclusively, tuned for 180 horsepower in Sport Touring models. Depending on trim level and engine, the transmission choices are either a six-speed manual or a CVT.
The ride is quite comfortable and the handling is top notch. Seating is roomy and comfortable, while the interior design and materials are a class above what might be expected at this price point.
Honda’s Sensing system is either an option or standard on the sedans and hatchbacks. This package includes forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, lane departure alert, and adaptive cruise control. The starting price with this package is $20,540.
Volkswagen GTI
It could be argued that the Volkswagen GTI occupies two automotive spheres. It is a useful five-door hatchback and a sports car. Its powerful turbocharged engine delivers ample performance, thanks to its 210-horsepower rating, which rises to 220 horses in the top trim level. Transmission choices are a six-speed manual or dual-clutch automatic.
Performance is excellent and handling is athletic, yet the ride is compliant and controlled. Interior comfort gets a boost thanks to good seating and a nicely trimmed passenger cabin.
The Volkswagen GTI’s starting price of $24,995 is not for bargain hunters. However, its spirited performance, exceptional ride, responsive handling, and upscale interior make this price seem reasonable.
Toyota Prius
Four cylinder engines can be part of a gasoline-electric hybrid drivetrain. Perhaps the best example is found in the Toyota Prius.
Fuel economy has long been the Prius’ claim to fame. However, the 2016 redesign enhanced riding comfort and handling, making the current Prius much more enjoyable to drive.
The Toyota Prius is available in up to six trim levels with a starting price of $24,686. All models feature a 1.8-liter, four-cylinder gasoline engine, two electric motor-generators, a continuously variable automatic transmission, and front-wheel drive. EPA ratings are 54 mpg in the city and 50 on the highway.
Chevrolet Malibu
Many highly ranked four-cylinder cars are compacts, but four-cylinder power is also used in larger cars. A prime example is the Chevrolet Malibu, the top rated midsize sedan in the U.S. News rankings. It is powered by a pair of turbocharged fours. The base 160-horsepower four-cylinder displaces 1.5-liters. Premier trim level buyers get a 250-horsepower, 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engines. A six-speed automatic is paired with the 1.5-liter engine. The 2.0-liter motor gets a nine-speed automatic transmission.
Boosting the Malibu to the top of the midsize sedan ratings are its comfortable and quiet ride, roomy interior, and excellent cargo space. The starting price is $21,680.
Hyundai Sonata
With its many strengths and few weaknesses, the Hyundai Sonata ranks second in the U.S. News & World Report’s evaluation of midsize cars. The Sonata was one of the first midsize cars to abandon optional V6 power. Other automakers have since followed.
In the Sonata, the base 2.4-liter, 185-horsepower engine and six-speed automatic transmission deliver good performance. Buyers wanting more power can opt for a 245-horsepower, 2.0-liter turbocharged four. Unfortunately, U.S. News concluded that the added performance from this engine is not worth the $3,200 it costs. Regardless of the engine, the Sonata delivers excellent fuel economy, a satisfying performance, roomy interior and a comfortable ride.
Honda Accord
Among the four-cylinder cars featured here, the Honda Accord is the only model that offers buyers a V6 engine upgrade, though Toyota and Nissan also make a V6 optional in their midsize sedans. After trying the 185-horsepower, 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, most Accord buyers conclude that the V6 is unnecessary.
The four-cylinder motor in the Accord can be paired with a six-speed manual or one of the better CVTs available today. Adding to the Accord’s appeal are its good fuel economy, a comfortable and quiet ride, a stylish interior, and competent handling.
Chevrolet Camaro
Chevrolet’s Camaro, the sportiest car in this group, comes with a 275-horsepower, turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and eight-speed automatic transmission as standard equipment. The coupe starts at $25,905. A convertible is also offered.
Perhaps in anticipation of the Camaro’s 2017 golden anniversary, Chevrolet redesigned the car last year. In the process, it reduced the weight by several hundred pounds and redesigned the suspension. As a result, the Camaro has become one of the better handling sports cars available.
A V6 and V8 are also offered, but the lighter four offers more than enough power. Complaints center on the very small backseat, tiny trunk, and limited visibility.
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These Are the Best Cars With Four-Cylinder Engines
In recent years, we have seen a movement to smaller engines. At first, six-cylinder motors replaced V8s, then, four-cylinder engines displaced these sixes. Even in the luxury arena, four-cylinder engines are becoming common.
Among small and midsize cars, however, four-cylinder engines have reigned supreme for years. Here is a look at some of the best cars with four-cylinder engines, based on the latest U.S. News evaluations and rankings.