Fuel economy is one of the most important things buyers should look at when they’re deciding on a car to buy or lease. Electric vehicles and hybrids are becoming increasingly popular in the US for their ability to limit, or remove, the need for gasoline.
Some cars offer better gas mileage than others, and while an all-electric vehicle like the Tesla Model 3 sounds like a dream, it isn’t exactly the most affordable EV out there. If you can’t quite go all-electric and want to stick to limiting your gas intake, which car do you pick if you want the most fuel-efficient hybrid or non-hybrid vehicle? There’s no right or wrong answer, it depends on what you’re looking for.
Most Fuel-Efficient Hybrid and Non-Hybrid Cars
Based on the newest (2018 and 2019) models, here are the most fuel-efficient non-electric vehicles according to Consumer Reports:
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2018 Toyota Prius Three MSRP: $27,655
Fuel Economy: 54/50/52 miles per gallon (city/highway/combined)
Although the Prius comes with outstanding fuel economy thanks to its hybrid powertrain and comes with excellent advanced safety features, it’s not an exciting car to drive. If you don’t drive fast or far, the Prius is a great vehicle for getting you around locally.
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2018 Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid MSRP: $23,085
Fuel Economy: 55/54/55 mpg
Another great hybrid car is the Hyundai Ioniq. With its fuel economy narrowly besting the Prius, deciding to purchase the vehicle comes down to its size. The back seat is tight, but if you plan on being the only one driving the car, the Ioniq can really help you cut down on gas costs.
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2018 Honda Accord Hybrid MSRP: $25,995
Fuel Economy: 47/47/47 mpg
The Honda Accord has been consistently ranked as one of the most popular sedans for its price. Now that there’s a hybrid option, the Accord gets a more attractive boost to fuel-savvy buyers. Although the 2018 model’s fuel economy dropped slightly compared to the 2017 hybrid, it’s still a solid ride for people needing to commute to and from work.
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2019 Toyota Camry Hybrid (2018 model pictured) MSRP: $29,070
Fuel Economy: 51/53/52 mpg
Another popular sedan, the Toyota Camry adds better fuel economy with its hybrid option. The 2019 Camry Hybrid is redesigned, and although looks snazzier, lacks some backseat space and comes with a lower stance. Just like with Accord, if you’re looking for a reliable vehicle that can help cut down the cost of gas, this hybrid option could be a great fit.
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2019 Toyota Prius c (2018 model pictured) MSRP: $22,450
Fuel Economy: 48/43/46 mpg
If you’re looking into saving money, the Prius c is great for frugal car buyers. Although it’s much smaller than the traditional Prius, and is a little slower of a ride, its fuel economy makes the overall cost a lot cheaper and reduces your gas intake.
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2019 Kia Niro EX MSRP: $27,240
Fuel Economy: 51/46/49 mpg
The only crossover SUV on this list, the Kia Niro can seat five and comes with a gas engine paired with an electric motor, giving it good fuel economy for its class. Although the ride isn’t as smooth due to its size, it’s great for families looking for a vehicle that can handle carpooling and long trips.
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2019 Toyota Avalon Hybrid XLE (2018 model pictured) MSRP: $37,420
Fuel Economy: 43/44/44 mpg
On the pricier and larger side of sedans, the Avalon Hybrid’s standard trim level, the XLE, comes with advanced driver assisted safety features and great fuel economy. Although this sedan is large for its class, its low frame could be difficult for tall drivers getting in and out comfortably.
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2018 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid MSRP: $28,795
Fuel Economy: 49/43/46 mpg
Popular among new vehicle buyers, the Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid enhances its fuel economy while still keeping the classic Malibu feel. The Malibu Hybrid incorporates some of the Chevrolet Volt’s technology, giving it an extra boost in fuel economy. Despite the plentiful leg room for the class, the seats themselves aren’t the most comfortable.
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2018 Chevrolet Cruze Diesel MSRP: $24,695
Fuel Economy: 30/52/37 mpg with the six-speed manual transmission, 31/47/37 mpg with the nine-speed automatic
A non-hybrid, the Cruze Diesel has the fuel economy to match its hybrid competitors. You can choose between a sedan and hatchback body style, and a six-speed manual or nine-speed automatic transmission. While the manual achieves much better fuel economy on the highway, most buyers are going to be more comfortable with the automatic.
The Bottom Line
There are a wide range of vehicles to choose from, and the ones listed above are just a few of the most fuel-efficient options available. Although these are the newest models, many of their older counterparts are just as fuel efficient, and are available at more reasonable prices. If you’re looking to finance one of these cars or their older versions, but worry your credit is in the way, let Auto Credit Express help.
We work with a coast-to-coast network of special finance dealers that have the lending resources to assist people in unique credit situations. Get started today by filling out our free and secure auto loan request form, and we’ll get right to work connecting you to a dealership.
