6 of the Best Cheap Fuel-Efficient Cars

Used Car Buying Guide No comments yet

cheap fuel-efficient cars

Even if you can’t afford a new electric vehicle (EV), you have many choices among cheap fuel-efficient cars that average 35-40 miles per gallon (mpg) on the highway. Keep reading to learn some of the best options to choose from!

Which Vehicle Types Get the Best Gas Mileage?

When shopping for fuel-efficient cars, keep these options in mind:

  • Hybrid vehicles have gasoline and electric engines that work together to reduce overall fuel consumption and save you money on gasoline. These vehicles have been around long enough that you might be able to find a pre-owned hybrid in great condition. Check out the Nissan Altima Hybrid.
  • Clean diesel vehicles provide access to better gas mileage without sacrificing luxury, power, or comfort. While diesel fuel is more expensive than gasoline, it may provide 30-35% better fuel efficiency. The BMW 328D sedan and the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 are both top choices among consumers.
  • Four-cylinder engines use less fuel than V6 or V8 engines. While you may sacrifice some power and speed, the trade-off is lower fuel consumption and lower costs at the pump.

6 of the Best Cheap Fuel-Efficient Cars

1. Nissan Versa

A used model with an MSRP of under $16,000 for a brand-new Nissan Versa provides access to low-cost and fuel-efficient transportation. The sub-compact Versas have a long list of advanced driver-assist systems (ADAS), get 35mpg, and boast decent crash-test scores.

2. Mitsubishi Mirage

The Mirage gets nearly 40 mpg with a hatchback body style and plenty of room inside. It’s one of the least-expensive new and used-car options on the market today.

3. Kio Rio

The Rio comes with standard tech features that surpass rivals in this class, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It gets 36 mpg and features excellent build quality and a comfortable ride.

4. Hyundai Elantra

The Elantra is a small sedan with an impressive list of standard features. With good acceleration and superb handling, plus Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, this vehicle is a top pick among modern fuel-efficient vehicles. It gets 35 mpg and has a larger-than-average interior for a small sedan.

5. Volkswagen Jetta

The Jetta gets 35 mpg and has the typical swagger you expect from a Volkswagen. With a simple design and a roomy cabin, the Jetta features touchscreen controls and a fully digital instrument panel. You’ll enjoy a 158-horsepower engine, good crash-test scores, and multiple ADAS features.

6. Toyota Corolla

The Corolla is a best-selling compact car with excellent crash-test scores, numerous standard ADAS features, and a reputation for reliability. It gets 35 mpg, has a 169-horsepower engine, and the hatchback version has excellent cargo space. This vehicle also has a touchscreen infotainment system with Amazon Alexa, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay.

  • Check Out Our Inventory at Drive Now

Check out our extensive inventory of cheap fuel-efficient cars online or at our Drive Now used car dealership in Phoenix, Arizona. We provide financing options for those with past credit challenges and can work with any credit situation.

Be sure to let our used car experts know that fuel efficiency is a top concern, so we can help you find your ideal new-to-you pre-owned vehicle among our vast inventory.