Introduction
With shifting fuel costs and increasingly contemporary car alternatives on the market, you may be considering replacing your current vehicle with one that takes you further for less. Yes, electric vehicles do not require gasoline, but they are still extremely pricey.
Furthermore, the cost of new automobiles has escalated to the point that they are no longer affordable for certain individuals. So, if you’re searching for a used car with decent gas mileage, you’re looking at more value.
Nobody is looking for ancient automobiles that are barely hanging on—people prefer recent models in wonderful shape and featuring all the technological upgrades found in a new car.
For added convenience, we have divided the article into two categories: hybrid and non-hybrid most fuel efficient used cars. Here goes:
Hybrid used vehicles with the best gas mileage
Hybrids are a champ when it comes to fuel efficiency along with the flexibility of a gas car. Here are the best used hybrid cars with the best gas mileage.
2020 Hyundai Ioniq
Starting MSRP: $23,200
EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy: 58 MPG (City – 57 MPG / Highway – 59 MPG)
Overview
For the 2017 model year, Hyundai debuted the Ioniq Plug-in Hybrid. It snatched the title of most fuel-efficient vehicle from its archrival, the Toyota Prius, and has held it ever since.
Anyone interested in a hybrid hatchback should have a look at the Ioniq.
Essentially, it is a five-door gas-electric Elantra sedan. It has the greatest EPA ratings of any car that doesn’t require a plug: 55 to 58 mpg in mixed driving, based on the trim level.
The Ioniq’s strengths include a smooth ride, an exceptionally big luggage space, surprising turning prowess, and an amazing array of tech options for the price. However, don’t expect high-end luxury or even a high-tech hybrid atmosphere.
The Hyundai Ioniq has been on the market since 2017, and the 2020 model boasts additional standard safety features, redesigned aesthetics, and upgraded infotainment technology; that is why it is our recommended choice.
Positives
- Incredibly fuel-efficient hybrid
- Many available tech and driver aids
Negatives
- Not a very polished powertrain
- Unimpressive acceleration
- Classmates have more cargo space
Key Features and Specifications
- Engine: 1.6 L Inline 4 Hybrid
- Horsepower: 139 hp @5,700 rpm
- Transmission: 6-speed automated manual
- Drive Type: Front wheel drive
2017 Toyota Prius
Starting MSRP: $23,475
EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy: 52 MPG (City – 54 MPG / Highway – 50 MPG)
Overview
The Toyota Prius has been the hybrid car’s flag bearer. And you knew it was coming. Regardless of your opinions about its unusual appearance, the Toyota Prius is one of the most sensible used automobiles available. It ticks all the practicality boxes. It is dependable, economical, safe, and extremely efficient. This Prius model has a fantastic fuel efficiency of up to 58 city/53 highway/56 combined mpg.
Moreover, the Prius is spacious for its size and has outstanding safety ratings.
We suggest the 2017 model over the 2016 model because it has standard features for safety like adaptive cruise control, front collision warning, lane-keep assist, and pedestrian recognition.
Overall, if cost, safety, and high gas prices are the most important considerations in a car purchase, you can overlook its unusual appearance and lack of performance.
Positives
- Incredibly fuel-efficient hybrid
- Refined ride
- Surprisingly spacious cabin
Negatives
- Polarizing design
- Feels sluggish to drive
Key Features and Specifications
- Engine: 1.8 L Inline 4 Hybrid
- Horsepower: 121 hp @5,200 rpm
- Transmission: Continuously variable-speed automatic
- Drive Type: Front wheel drive
2019 Honda Insight
Starting MSRP: $22,930
EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy: 52 MPG (City – 55 MPG / Highway – 49 MPG)
Overview
The Honda Insight used to be Honda’s take on the Toyota Prius. They rethought that concept for the 2019 model year, making it more resemble a Honda Civic. That’s a good thing because the Civic is one of the greatest small vehicles on the market, and the Insight has the same excellent handling and comfortable ride.
The fact that it appears more mature and upmarket than the Civic is the icing on the cake of a well-rounded and appealing product.
The Insight performs better than most hybrids, blending quick acceleration with frugal fuel consumption.
All trim levels get a four-cylinder engine and an electric motor, which work together to deliver 151 horsepower to the front wheels through a CVT. If you pick the LX or EX trims, it will yield EPA ratings of 55 MPG in the city and 49 MPG on the highway.
Positives
- Spry acceleration with miserly fuel-sipping
- Looks less like a hybrid
- Plush ride
Negatives
- Coarse engine sound under rough acceleration
- Arduous infotainment menus
Key Features and Specifications
- Engine: 1.5 L Inline 4 Hybrid
- Horsepower: 151 hp @6,000 rpm
- Transmission: Continuously variable-speed automatic transmission
- Drive Type: Front wheel drive
2020 Toyota Corolla Hybrid
Starting MSRP: $23,100
EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy: 52 MPG (City – 53 MPG / Highway – 52 MPG)
Overview
The Toyota Corolla has long been one of the most popular compact vehicle options in the United States, offering a low-cost, dependable, safe, and pleasant commuting solution.
However, the Corolla was also viewed as dull, particularly when compared to newer competitors such as the Honda Civic. But Toyota completely redesigned the Corolla for 2020, and in addition to a significantly nicer interior, a more appealing appearance, and new technology, the 2020 Corolla is a lot more economical; efficient because, for the first time ever, Toyota provided the Corolla with a hybrid option.
Yes, the 2020 Corolla has a highly efficient hybrid option. According to the EPA, the hybrid will get 53 mpg in the city and 52 on the interstate. Nonetheless, the 2.0-liter non-hybrid engine gets up to 40 mpg on the highway, while the 1.8-liter gets up to 38 mpg on the highway.
Positives
- Best fuel economy
- Number of standard advanced safety tech
- Well-appointed cabin
Negatives
- Single rather basic LE trim available
- Unimpressive acceleration
- Android Auto is not supported
Key Features and Specifications
- Engine: 1.8 L Inline 4 Hybrid
- Horsepower: 121 hp @5,700 rpm
- Transmission: Continuously variable-speed automatic transmission
- Drive Type: Front wheel drive
2018 Camry Hybrid
Starting MSRP: $27,950
EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy: 52 MPG (City – 51 MPG / Highway – 53 MPG)
Overview
When it comes to mid-size family sedans, one vehicle stands out from the crowd due to its remarkable dependability, comfort, and value for money: the Toyota Camry. Toyota’s bread and butter car consistently holds one of the top sales positions.
The Camry had a thorough upgrade from Toyota in 2018, which includes the introduction of the new TNGA architecture and improved powertrains. This particularly fuel-efficient hybrid also became more fun to drive—who saw that coming? Furthermore, the Camry’s enhanced outward appearance, increased utility, and plusher interior made it considerably more appealing overall.
Daily commuters who are very fuel-conscious should choose the Camry Hybrid, which augments the 2.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine with an electric motor to save on fuel.
Positives
- Smooth and efficient hybrid powertrain
- Spacious cabin
- Well-known dependability
Negatives
- Apple CarPlay or Android Auto is lacking
- Acceleration is a bit tepid
Key Features and Specifications
- Engine: 2.5 L Inline 4 Hybrid
- Horsepower: 208 hp @5,700 rpm
- Transmission: Continuously variable-speed automatic
- Drive Type: Front wheel drive
2017 Kia Niro
Starting MSRP: $22,890
EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy: 50 MPG (City – 52 MPG / Highway – 49 MPG)
Overview
The hybrid SUV from Kia made its debut in the 2017 model year. The Niro’s greatest strength may be that it doesn’t appear to be a hybrid, given that it was designed from the ground up to be one.
The Niro is worth thinking about, with a city fuel economy of up to 52 mpg. Excellent gas mileage is only the tip of the iceberg, though. The Niro’s 54.5 cubic feet of cargo space, when the back seatback is folded down, is more than enough for even the longest trip with a lot of stuff.
High-quality materials are evident throughout the cabin, and the elegant dashboard would not seem out of place in a car that costs several thousand more.
A 1.6-liter hybrid engine with 139 horsepower and a six-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox serves as the Niro’s only source of propulsion.
Although the Niro is not very fast, it is at least as quick as other rivals. The Niro offers a comfortable, stable ride while easily handling tough terrain—a great product all around.
Positives
- Incredibly fuel-efficient hybrid
- Attractive pricing
- Surprisingly spacious and premium cabin
Negatives
- Not very polished powertrain
- Underwhelming base model
- Classmates have more cargo space
Key Features and Specifications
- Engine: 1.6 L Inline 4 Hybrid
- Horsepower: 139 hp @5,700 rpm
- Transmission: 6-speed automated manual
- Drive Type: Front wheel drive
2018 Honda Accord Hybrid
Starting MSRP: $25,100
EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy: 47 MPG (City – 47 MPG / Highway – 47 MPG)
Overview
Cheap driving nowadays does not always imply being tethered to the wheel of a runt of a car. Consider the Honda Accord Hybrid. For decades, the Honda Accord has been a popular mid-size sedan option for buyers seeking a lot of car for their money.
Any Accord is a joy to drive because of its refined driving qualities and quick handling, but the Accord Hybrid adds great gas mileage to this winning recipe.
We recommend the 2018 model; completely redesigned for 2018, the Honda Accord is built on three decades of excellence. The Accord gets 47 mpg in the city and on the highway, making it ideal for long-distance travel, everyday errands, and everything in between.
The big and pleasant cabin adds to the allure. This car has an exceptional reputation for dependability.
Positives
- Comfortable yet a good handler
- Roomy rear seats and trunk
- Good safety ratings
Negatives
- Limited storage spaces
- Some rear blind spots
- Rivals are more upscale
Key Features and Specifications
- Engine: 2.0 L Inline 4 Hybrid
- Horsepower: 212 hp @6,200 rpm
- Transmission: Continuously variable-speed automatic
- Drive Type: Front wheel drive
2016 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid
Starting MSRP: $27,770
EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy: 46 MPG (City – 47 MPG / Highway – 46 MPG)
Overview
The 2018 Chevrolet Malibu is a mid-size vehicle that accomplishes practically everything you need and more. Its sleek and stylish design will draw your attention to the road, while the large cabin and soft seats will keep you snug and comfortable.
As you progress through the trim levels, you will notice a plethora of creature comforts as well as improved interior quality.
On the other hand, the Malibu’s trump card is its optional hybrid powertrain. It’s smooth and sleek, can go up to 55 mph on electric power alone, and achieves an impressive 48 mpg combined.
It is also a surprisingly sporty vehicle with excellent handling. The Malibu turns more quickly than competing family sedans, despite its size and unsporty stance.
The front-wheel-drive Malibu achieves the challenging accomplishment of being both pleasant to travel in and enjoyable to drive when it comes to ride quality. Its cabin is peaceful, and the suspension system efficiently dampens jolts.
Positives
- Eye-catching, elegant design
- Plush ride along with capable handling
- Comfortable and roomy cabin
- Intuitive infotainment system
Negatives
- No interior trunk release button
- So-so cabin materials compared to rivals
Key Features and Specifications
- Engine: 1.8 L Inline 4 Hybrid
- Horsepower: 182 hp
- Transmission: Continuously variable-speed automatic
- Drive Type: Front wheel drive
2019 Lexus ES 300h
Starting MSRP: $41,560
EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy: 44 MPG (City – 44 MPG / Highway – 45 MPG)
Overview
Lexus vehicles have brought a whole new dimension to the luxury automobile market, thanks to their distinct appearance, exceptional dependability, and also the fact that many of them utilize petrol-electric hybrid powertrains.
So, if you want a more comfortable ride while saving money on gas, the Lexus ES 300h is the car to go with. This gas-electric mid-size luxury vehicle has a roomy, amenity-laden interior and outperforms any gas-only economy car in terms of fuel consumption.
The 2019 or 2020 models would be our top choices. These years correspond to the current-generation ES 300h, which had an improved interior, revised technology, greater ride and handling, and higher gas efficiency — an EPA-estimated 44 mpg in mixed driving, courtesy of the 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine.
Positives
- Incredibly smooth driving demeanor
- Value for money pricing
- Stylish as well as tranquil cabin
Negatives
- Lacks driving athleticism
- Rear seats don’t fold
- The infotainment trackpad is not intuitive to use
Key Features and Specifications
- Engine: 2.5 L Inline 4 Hybrid
- Horsepower: 215 hp @5,700 rpm
- Transmission: Continuously variable-speed automatic
- Drive Type: Front wheel drive
Non-hybrid used vehicles with the best gas mileage
Hybrid cars are significantly more expensive than their ICE equivalents due to their increased complexity. They also have higher insurance costs, and the fuel efficiency gap between them and a standard automobile decreases as you drive down the highway.
So, paying that premium for a hybrid model is not very sensible, especially if someone does more highway commutes.
Luckily, we’ve got you covered if you’re in the same boat. Here is a list of non-hybrid best used cars with the best gas mileage:
2018 Mitsubishi Mirage
Starting MSRP: $14,595
EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy: 39 MPG (City – 37 MPG / Highway – 43 MPG)
Overview
The Mitsubishi Mirage is hard to pass up when it comes to affordable commute options. It is not only one of the smallest automobiles on the market in the United States but also has one of the smallest engines. The combination of these features makes the Mirage the most fuel-efficient non-hybrid, gas-powered vehicle on the market.
At the same time, you shouldn’t really be shocked by its cheap interior, fidgety driving experience, poor ride quality, cramped back seat, and 78-horsepower three-cylinder engine.
However, it excels at what it was designed to do: cheap to buy and run. Its five-door hatchback version achieves an EPA-estimated 39 mpg in mixed driving. That’s higher than the average car’s score for highway efficiency.
Positives
- Cheap to buy and run
Negatives
- Absolutely sluggish performance
- Extremely low-rent cabin
Key Features and Specifications
- Engine: 1.2 L Inline 3 Gas
- Horsepower: 78 hp @6,000 rpm
- Transmission: Continuously variable-speed automatic
- Drive Type: Front wheel drive
2018 Chevrolet Cruze
Starting MSRP: $23,795
EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy: 37 MPG (City – 30 MPG / Highway – 52 MPG)
Overview
One of the most fuel-efficient cars to ever come off an assembly line that is not a hybrid is the Chevy Cruze. 2018 saw the Chevrolet Cruze diesel become a unicorn when Volkswagen’s TDIs were eliminated from the market. It became the only diesel passenger car with a manual gearbox and a price under $30,000 still sold in the United States.
The 1.6-liter aluminum-block turbocharged engine that powers this Cruze is a mileage champ, earning EPA fuel ratings of 30 mpg in the city and 52 mpg on the highway.
Positives
- Mind-boggling 52 mpg efficiency on the highway
- Comfortable ride
- Intuitive infotainment system
Negatives
- Not very dynamic
- Manual gearbox isn’t the sleekest
Key Features and Specifications
- Engine: 1.6 L Inline 4 Diesel
- Horsepower: 137 hp @3,750 rpm
- Transmission: 6-speed manual
- Drive Type: Front wheel drive
2020 Hyundai Elantra
Starting MSRP: $21,600
EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy: 36 MPG (City – 33 MPG / Highway – 41 MPG)
Overview
To achieve good gas mileage, frugal commuters don’t require a small, underpowered automobile. That is demonstrated by the Hyundai Elantra, an excellent purchase–new or used. While it isn’t the most thrilling car on the market, its thorough ability distinguishes it from small subcompacts.
In addition to its modern styling, smooth ride, low pricing, and great warranty, the Eco trim level provides 33 MPG in the city and 41 MPG on the highway. Its tiny 128 hp, 1.4-liter turbocharged engine limits its performance appeal but assists owners in coping with increasing gas prices.
Positives
- Hushed cabin with well-laid-out controls
- Comfortable ride
- Numerous features for the price
Negatives
- Cramped at the back
- So-so handling
Key Features and Specifications
- Engine: 1.4 L Inline 4 Gas
- Horsepower: 128 hp @5,500 rpm
- Transmission: 7-speed automated manual
- Drive Type: Front wheel drive
2016 Honda Civic
Starting MSRP: $22,200
EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy: 35 MPG (City – 31 MPG / Highway – 42 MPG)
Overview
Honda is one of the finest in the business when it comes to producing small cars. Since the early 1970s, the Civic has been a market leader in the compact vehicle class.
The Honda Civic redefines passenger space and comfort for a compact car. The Honda Civic will wow you with its luxurious interior, numerous passenger comfort features, and dynamic handling. And sure, it has decent fuel efficiency.
While all three Civic models receive outstanding fuel efficiency, the 1.5-liter turbocharged engine paired to the CVT in the sedan gets the best. Most other small vehicles are outperformed by the EPA-estimated 42 MPG on the highway.
Positives
- Spacious and upscale cabin
- Sweet ride and handling balance
- Incredibly fuel-efficient
Negatives
- Not a very intuitive touchscreen unit
- Can be pricey
Key Features and Specifications
- Engine: 1.5 L Inline 4 Gas
- Horsepower: 174 hp @6,000 rpm
- Transmission: Continuously variable-speed automatic
- Drive Type: Front wheel drive
2020 Nissan Versa
Starting MSRP: $16,500
EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy: 35 MPG (City – 32 MPG / Highway – 40 MPG)
Overview
The Nissan Versa makes for a compelling choice if you are looking for an economical sedan for daily commutes or weekend drives. Though it looks small on the inside, it is considerably spacious and comfortable for its size.
Nissan gave the Versa a long-overdue makeover for 2020, with the subcompact sedan looking like a value superstar. Along with a sleeker-looking exterior and more upscale interior, the updated Nissan boasts driver-assistance features like adaptive cruise control and rear automated emergency braking.
Every Versa is motivated by a 122-hp four-cylinder engine that powers the front wheels. Choosing the CVT over the standard five-speed manual transmission will reward buyers with 32 MPG in the city and 40 MPG on the highway.
Positives
- Handsome inside and out
- Attractive pricing
- Best-in-class driver-assistance features
Negatives
- Lazy acceleration
- Not a very spacious cabin
Key Features and Specifications
- Engine: 1.6 L Inline 4 Gas
- Horsepower: 122 hp @6,300 rpm
- Transmission: Continuously variable-speed automatic
- Drive Type: Front wheel drive
2019 Chevrolet Spark
Starting MSRP: $14,320
EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy: 33 MPG (City – 30 MPG / Highway – 38 MPG)
Overview
If price is a concern, no other hatchback comes even close to the Chevrolet Spark. The 2020 Spark proves that not every cheap car has to feel like it, thanks to Chevy packing a lot of value into it. The driver comfort is sufficient, and the engine revs with a bit of enthusiasm—a feature otherwise absent in this price bracket.
Chevy’s excellent infotainment system brings standard Android Auto Connectivity and Apple CarPlay capability, features not even offered as options on many rival entry-priced cars.
The Spark was redesigned for the 2016 model year with a more mature look and lower ride height, allowing for more comfortable seats.
The second-generation Spark also has a new, larger engine and a 1.4-liter inline-four powering the front wheels, good for 30 MPG in the city and 38 MPG on the highway.
The updated Spark’s chassis is also 77% stiffer than the previous model’s, which results in much-improved ride quality, with well-damped body motions and minimal body roll.
2019 Chevrolet Sparks receive an updated front end with a fresh grille design and revised headlights. New wheel designs and more exterior colors make it a rather fresh option.
Positives
- Cabin comparable to cars in a higher segment
- Loaded infotainment system
- A surprising amount of tech for the price
- Entertaining to drive at city speeds
Negatives
- Just plain slow
- cumbersome cargo solutions
- The back seat is best left to the kid
Key Features and Specifications
- Engine: 1.4 L Inline 4 Gas
- Horsepower: 98 hp @5,700 rpm
- Transmission: Continuously variable-speed automatic
- Drive Type: Front wheel drive
2018 Chevrolet Equinox Diesel
Starting MSRP: $30,640
EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy: 32 MPG (City – 28 MPG / Highway – 39 MPG)
Overview
Chevrolet’s tiny crossover, the Equinox, was revised in 2018 to be a little smaller but more sophisticated version of its predecessor.
The 1.6L turbo diesel engine in the Equinox, which achieves over 40 mpg on the highway, is unmatched by any other vehicle.
Aside from fuel efficiency, utility is an important consideration—the 2018 Equinox is one of the most spacious vehicles in the class. The Equinox emerges as a powerful long-distance family mover when equipped with comfy, soft seats and a variety of creature comforts. Not to mention the above-average fuel efficiency, excellent expected reliability, and outstanding safety ratings.
Positives
- Easy-to-use touch screen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
- Roomy interior
- Comfortable ride quality along with well-behaved handling
- Powerful and efficient turbo diesel
Negatives
- Some low-rent cabin materials
- Less cargo space
Key Features and Specifications
- Engine: 1.6 L Inline 4 Diesel
- Horsepower: 137 hp @3,750 rpm
- Transmission: 6-speed shiftable automatic
- Drive Type: Front wheel drive
Final Thoughts
The MPG listed on the website may not be the exact MPG you will obtain once you drive the car off the lot. Your driving style will determine your actual mileage. If you drive your automobile harder and quicker, it will consume more fuel than if you drive lightly.
Other factors like weather, tire pressure, and maintenance will influence how much the real-world MPG differs from the quoted figure.
