Best new small cars under $21,000

Honda Civic

Heading a tough field.

Base price: $15,990

Price as tested: $24,990 $20,190 buys an automatic Civic LX; boldly styled, it’s an all-new car, with a higher quality cabin, more leg and shoulder room, and noteworthy improvements in performance, economy and handling. Add the latest active driver aids for just $1,000 more.

We like: More standard power with incrementally better economy, optional turbo engine improves on both. Roomy rear seat and trunk are large for this segment. All Canadianmarket Honda Civic sedans and coupes are now built in Alliston, Ont. Engine: 2.0-litre 4-cylinder Power/Torque: 158 hp/136 lb-ft

NRC ratings L/100 km: 7.8 city, 5.8 hwy.

What’s best: Advanced safety tech is available in all but base models.

What’s worst: Touchscreen audio system can be frustrating.

Value for money: Very good.