Mercedes Mullins
With gas prices always on the rise, buying a used car with great fuel efficiency is a smart move. There are many options available, from compact cars to SUVs, and choosing a fuel-efficient vehicle will not only save you money on fuel but also help reduce your carbon footprint. So, which used car offers the best fuel efficiency? There are several contenders, including the Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid, which boasts impressive mileage and has been rated as more fuel-efficient than its rival, the Toyota Prius. The Honda Fit is another economical choice, offering 41 mpg on the highway, while the Honda Insight provides 55 mpg in the city and 45 on the highway. For those seeking a combination of space and fuel efficiency, the Accord Hybrid is a great option, and the Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid offers a powerful engine and swift acceleration. The Kia Optima Hybrid is another safe and feature-rich option, while the Lexus provides a touch of luxury with good mileage.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Fuel-efficient used cars | Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid, Toyota Prius, Honda Civic Hybrid, Ford Fusion Hybrid, VW Golf, Skoda Octavia, Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid, Honda Fit, Honda Insight, Hyundai Elantra, Chevrolet Equinox, Toyota Corolla Hybrid, Kia Optima Hybrid, Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, Kia Niro, Kia SUV, Lexus |
| Mileage | 33-60 mpg |
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What You'll Learn
Best hybrid cars
Hybrid vehicles are available in many forms, including cars, pickup trucks, SUVs, minivans, and even sports cars. Some hybrids focus on efficiency, while others use the gasoline-electric combination to enhance performance.
The Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid, introduced in 2017, is a great choice for a used hybrid car. It dethroned the Toyota Prius as the most fuel-efficient car, and has kept that title ever since. The Ioniq has a simple design and user-friendly technology, and is a hatchback with ample cargo space. The plug-in hybrid version is better value as a used car, with a 1.6-litre petrol engine and electric motor allowing up to 39 miles on a single charge.
The Kia Niro is another excellent option, combining the practicality of a small crossover/SUV with the performance of a hatchback. The Niro has a 139-horsepower gas-electric powertrain, brisk acceleration, and agile handling. The Kia Optima Hybrid is another offering from the brand, which boasts a long lineup of active safety features and scored highly in crash tests.
The Honda Civic Hybrid, based on the seventh-generation Civic, is another good choice. The first Civic hybrid in the United States was released in 2002, and the hybrid model achieves 40 city/45 hwy/42 cmb mpg. Honda has long been known for its fuel-efficient cars.
For those seeking a combination of a spacious cabin and excellent fuel economy, the Accord Hybrid is a great option. The Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid is another choice in this category, with a 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine and an electric motor producing 182 horsepower. The Malibu Hybrid has a user-friendly infotainment system and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard equipment as early as the 2016 model year.
The Lexus ES 300h is a luxury hybrid that combines high fuel efficiency with luxurious accommodations. The Lexus model also provides good mileage at 43/40/42 mpg.
The XC60 is a small luxury SUV and Volvo's most popular model. The T8 plug-in hybrid pairs elegant design and luxurious amenities with serious power and a 36-mile all-electric driving range.
Other hybrid options include the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, the Toyota Corolla Hybrid, and the Ford Fusion Hybrid.
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Best non-hybrid cars
If you're looking for a fuel-efficient car that isn't a hybrid, there are several options available. Here are some of the best non-hybrid cars in terms of fuel efficiency:
Mitsubishi Mirage
The Mitsubishi Mirage is a highly fuel-efficient and affordable non-hybrid car. It features a 1.2-litre three-cylinder engine with an automatic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission). While it's not the fastest car, with a 0-60 mph time of around 11 seconds, its smaller engine and lightweight materials contribute to its impressive fuel economy.
Toyota Corolla
The Toyota Corolla is known for its reliability and fuel efficiency. The 2023 model is equipped with a 1.8-litre four-cylinder engine, offering an estimated fuel economy of 32-36 mpg in the city and 41-43 mpg on the highway, depending on the trim and transmission choice. The Corolla provides great fuel efficiency without compromising on comfort and style.
Honda Civic
The Honda Civic is an iconic compact car renowned for its fuel efficiency. The 2023 model, when equipped with the 1.5-litre turbocharged engine and CVT, delivers an EPA combined rating of 36 mpg for the sedan and 35 mpg for the hatchback. Honda also offered a High Fuel Economy (HF) version of the Civic until 2015, which achieved an EPA-estimated 31/41 mpg.
Nissan Versa
The Nissan Versa is one of the most affordable options for a new car with a four-cylinder engine. It features a 1.6-litre engine and achieves an average MPG similar to the Toyota Corolla. While it may not be the fastest car, the Versa offers a good balance of fuel efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
Hyundai Elantra
The Hyundai Elantra is another excellent choice for fuel efficiency. It utilises a 147-hp inline-four engine and a CVT to achieve an EPA-estimated combined rating of up to 36 mpg.
Chevrolet Spark
If you're looking for an affordable option, the Chevrolet Spark is the cheapest car in America. Despite its low price, it offers impressive fuel efficiency with a rating of up to 30 city/38 highway mpg.
These non-hybrid cars offer a combination of fuel efficiency, affordability, and reliability, making them great options for individuals looking to save on fuel costs without opting for a hybrid or electric vehicle.
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Best used cars
When it comes to buying a used car, it's always good to opt for something that's fuel-efficient to save money on fuel and benefit the environment. While there are lots of different engine options, the most fuel-efficient are petrols with hybrid assistance and some newer diesel engines.
The Toyota Prius has long been a popular choice for those wanting an affordable vehicle with excellent fuel efficiency. The car was first introduced as a small sedan in 2001, and the second-generation model from 2004 onwards adopted its distinctive hatchback shape. The Prius is exceptionally reliable and has one of the most reliable drivetrains in the world. The Toyota Corolla hybrid uses the same hybrid system as the previous generation Prius and is a good option if you're looking for something more basic.
If you're looking for a used car with a larger boot than the Prius, the Hyundai Ioniq is a great choice. Introduced in 2017, the Ioniq took the prize for the most fuel-efficient car from its arch-rival, the Prius, and has kept it since. The Ioniq is a hatchback, offering a decent amount of cargo space for its small frame. The interior doesn't match the premium feel of other vehicles in its price range, but its simple design and easy-to-use technology make up for it. The Ioniq was available as a pure electric car from 2017 to 2021 and as a plug-in hybrid from 2018 to 2021.
The Honda Fit is another economical choice, whether you're considering price, space efficiency, or fuel economy. The Honda Insight, which was available in 2022, is also a good option, providing 55 mpg in the city and 45 on the highway.
Other fuel-efficient used cars to consider include the Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid, which combines a 1.8-litre 4-cylinder engine with an electric motor, and the Kia Optima Hybrid, which boasts a long lineup of active safety features and scored highly in crash tests. The Kia Niro, introduced in 2017, is also an excellent choice, offering a frugal thirst for gasoline with surprisingly spirited performance.
If you're looking for a combination of a spacious cabin and economy-car mileage, the Accord Hybrid is worth considering. The Skoda Octavia is also known for its incredible fuel economy and class-leading reliability at a reasonable price.
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Best for performance
If you're looking for a fuel-efficient car that doesn't compromise on performance, there are several options to consider.
The Hyundai Ioniq Blue Hybrid, for example, offers a consistent 58-60 mpg and has modern amenities. It outperforms the Prius in terms of mpg, but it's no longer in production as Hyundai shifts its focus to electric vehicles.
The 2024 Honda Civic is another option, offering both sedan and hatchback body styles, as well as three engine choices. The most fuel-efficient 2024 Civic is the mid-level EX with a 180-hp, turbo 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine and a CVT, delivering 33/42/36 mpg.
The 2024 Mitsubishi Mirage is also worth considering. It is currently the least thirsty gas-powered car on the market and is quite affordable, with a starting price below $18,000. The Mirage hatchback is the most fuel-efficient of the two body styles, rated at 36/43/39 mpg city/highway/combined.
If you're looking for an SUV, the Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid is a solid choice, being the only SUV to crack 40 mpg overall in Consumer Reports' tests.
Lastly, the Kia Niro is a great option if you're seeking a combination of performance and fuel efficiency. Introduced in 2017, the Niro has the appearance of a small crossover/SUV and hatchback. While its 139-horsepower gas-electric powertrain might not seem impressive on paper, it delivers brisk acceleration and agile handling, making it fun to drive.
So, depending on your preferences and requirements, these are some of the best fuel-efficient used cars for performance.
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Best for safety
When it comes to safety, it's important to remember that a larger and heavier vehicle will inherently protect its occupants better in a crash than a smaller and lighter car. That being said, here are some of the best fuel-efficient used cars that offer good safety features:
Kia Optima Hybrid
The Kia Optima Hybrid has a long list of active safety features and scored highly in crash tests. The base model includes features such as a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite radio, and dual-zone climate control. It also offers comfortable seating and an intuitive infotainment system.
Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
The 2017 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid is a great choice for used car shoppers looking for a fuel-efficient and safe vehicle. It comes with features such as keyless entry, push-button start, a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, dual-zone climate control, and a hands-free trunk. It offers smooth and stress-free driving dynamics, as well as good fuel efficiency thanks to its 193-horsepower hybrid powertrain.
Toyota Prius
The Toyota Prius has long been a popular choice for car shoppers looking for an affordable and fuel-efficient vehicle. The 2017 Prius c received a boost in standard active safety features, including automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, a rearview camera, and automatic high-beam headlights. The 2023 model year also saw a redesign, giving it a more dramatic swept-back exterior. The Prius is known for its distinctive hatchback shape and excellent fuel efficiency.
Lexus ES
The Lexus ES is a reasonably priced mid-size luxury sedan that offers a smooth driving experience, plenty of safety features, and a plush interior. It's a great choice for those looking for a balance of comfort, safety, and fuel efficiency.
Honda Civic
The Honda Civic is another fuel-efficient car that has received the IIHS' Top Safety Pick+ designation. The 2024 Honda Civic offers both sedan and hatchback body styles, three engine choices, and either a six-speed manual transmission or a CVT. The most fuel-efficient model is the mid-level EX with a 1.5-liter engine and CVT automatic transmission, offering 33/42 mpg.
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Frequently asked questions
Here is a list of some of the best fuel-efficient used cars:
- Honda Fit
- Honda Civic Hybrid
- Ford Fusion Hybrid
- Toyota Prius
- Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid
- Kia Optima Hybrid
- Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid
- Skoda Octavia
- Honda Insight
- Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
While SUVs are at a fuel-efficiency disadvantage relative to low-slung cars, some used SUVs with good fuel efficiency include:
- Kia Niro
- Kia SUV
- Chevrolet Equinox
Here are some tips to maximize the fuel economy of your used car:
- Keep your revs and speed as still as possible when on the motorway
- Avoid taking shorter trips as your engine needs time to warm up
- Try to drive smoothly and avoid putting strain on your engine
While used luxury cars might not achieve the best mpg, some used luxury cars with good fuel efficiency include:
- Lexus
- Accord Hybrid
