14 CHEAP CARS WITH GREAT GAS MILEAGE IN 2023
There are two major categories of policies aimed at reducing gasoline consumption: price-based and performance-based. Price-based policies, such as taxes on gasoline usage, impact car users directly. Performance-based policies, on the other hand, set minimum average fuel economy standards, such as the US Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards and similar policies in Europe, Japan, and elsewhere.
As technology continues to advance and improve fuel efficiency, the adoption of gas-powered vehicles can help reduce gas expenses and emissions. To maximize the benefits of these policies, it is important to consider both the fuel efficiency and cost of a vehicle. In this post, we will focus on new automobiles that have a fuel economy of at least 50 miles per gallon and cost less than $30,000, which is well below the current average new-car price of over $45,000.
1. 2023 TOYOTA PRIUS ECO
MSRP: $28,000
COMBINED FUEL ECONOMY: 57 MPG
OVERVIEW
The Toyota Prius is a desirable, reliable, and good-looking vehicle with a unique powertrain. It has nearly 2,000 horsepower and a design that sets it apart from other popular hybrids.
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Prius powertrain consists of a four-cylinder engine, an electric motor with a plug-in component, and a separate compartment. It has an engine displacement of around 1.8 to 2.0 liters, making it one of the most fuel-efficient cars on the market. The Prius is equipped with a more advanced lithium-ion battery that provides increased energy density and a lighter, more compact design. It has a total system horsepower of 121 and can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 7.2 seconds.
PROS
- Excellent fuel economy.
- Smooth ride.
- Standardized features.
- Spacious and well-built.
CONS
- Slow acceleration
- Regenerative brakes take some time to get used to.
- Dated infotainment system.
BOTTOM-LINE
The Toyota Prius is designed with the consumer in mind, offering excellent gas mileage and a combined gas-accrued system rating of around 57 MPG. As a hybrid, the Prius does not require a large amount of gas for power. This makes it a cost-effective and eco-friendly choice for drivers.
2. 2023 HYUNDAI ELANTRA HYBRID BLUE
MSRP: $24,400
COMBINED FUEL ECONOMY: 53 - 56 MPG
OVERVIEW
The Hyundai Elantra is designed with the user in mind, offering a decent fuel economy with a 57-mpg blended gasoline rating.
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As a hybrid, the Elantra's power is not defined by its fuel capacity. This car is equipped with a large 2-liter fuel line engine and state-of-the-art safety features, including a pre-collision system and pedestrian detection with guidance assist.
PROS
- Peppy power train.
- Spacious and high-tech interior.
- Balanced ride and handling.
- Fantastic fuel economy.
CONS
- Noisy gas engine.
- Lots of hard plastic in the engine.
BOTTOM-LINE
The Elantra is a solid choice for those looking for a compact sedan. It handles corners well and is not easily affected by bumps in the road. The Elantra's fuel economy is also impressive, with an established EPA estimate of 53-56 MPG on the combined cycle. In testing, the Elantra exceeded this estimate, achieving 115 miles on a single tank of gas.
3. 2023 HONDA CIVIC SPORT SEDAN
MSRP: $25,745
COMBINED FUEL ECONOMY:26/36 MPG
OVERVIEW
For many years, the Honda Civic has offered budget-conscious consumers access to a compact car with a smart design and excellent value. The Honda Civic sedan boasts a stylish interior and numerous features that provide a comfortable driving experience.
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The Civic is equipped with a 4-cylinder engine and a choice of transmissions, including a variable automatic CVT. It offers a range of benefits, including advanced safety features and impressive performance and handling. With its standard engine, the Civic can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 7.2 seconds. Overall, the Civic is a well-rounded and affordable option for compact car buyers.
PROS
- Cool and well-made interior.
- Very spacious.
- Well-balanced driving dynamics.
- Powerful and efficient turbo engine.
CONS
- Tacky interior.
- Pricey point of entry.
BOTTOM LINE
According to the EPA, the most fuel-efficient model of the new Civic is the mid-range ES. This car has an impressive fuel economy rating of 36 mpg on the highway, thanks to its streamlined design and advanced powertrain. Inside, the Civic ES boasts a sleek and sporty interior with smooth lines and a dashboard featuring a full-width honeycomb patterned mesh element. Overall, the Civic ES is an excellent choice for eco-conscious drivers.
4. 2023 MAZDA MAZDA3 S SEDAN.
MSRP: $22,550
COMBINED FUEL ECONOMY:28/37 MPG
OVERVIEW
The Mazda3 is a compact car with distinctive features that set it apart from others in its class. These features keep it competitive with other vehicles, making it a top-rated choice and a great brand. The Mazda is available as a sedan or a hatchback, providing versatile options for drivers.
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The Mazda3 is equipped with a powerful 4-cylinder engine that can be upgraded to include all-wheel drive if desired. This vehicle is designed for customers who want a satisfying driving experience and a top-quality interior. With its sleek design and advanced features, the Mazda3 is an excellent choice for drivers looking for a compact car with a premium feel.
PROS
- Upscale interior
- Powerful engines
- Fun to drive
- Gorgeous design
CONS
- Below average fuel economy.
- Tight rear seat.
- No high-performance variant.
BOTTOM-LINE
In terms of fuel efficiency, the Mazda3 and its sedan counterpart have a 2.5-liter engine cylinder with a combined EPA rating of 28 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on highways. This car also boasts a thoughtfully designed cabin with supportive seats and comfortable passenger seating. Overall, the Mazda3 and Mazda3 sedan offers a well-rounded driving experience with impressive fuel economy and a comfortable interior.
5. 2023 VOLKSWAGEN JETTA (MANUAL) SEDAN.
MSRP: $21,750
COMBINED FUEL ECONOMY:31/41 MPG
OVERVIEW
The Volkswagen Jetta Sedan is often referred to as the Volkswagen Golf with a trunk due to its unique characteristics. It has front-wheel drive, making it a more agile vehicle than other compact cars on the market today.
The Jetta has impressive handling and a fun, punchy ride thanks to its 158-horsepower turbocharged inline-4 engine. Overall, it is a great option for drivers looking for a compact car with sporty handling and a spacious trunk.
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The Volkswagen Jetta is beautifully designed and well-built, with a unique ignition system and excellent engine transmission. Its turbocharged 1.5-liter 4-cylinder engine provides excellent overall performance, and the base version comes with a 6-speed manual transmission. This car has the power to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 7.1 seconds, making it competitive with vehicles like the Mazda 3. Overall, the Volkswagen Jetta is a great option for drivers looking for a compact car with sporty performance and a stylish design.
PROS
- Cushy ride for a compact.
- Spacious cockpit.
- Stellar fuel economy.
CONS
- Morose interior
- Over-boosted steering
- Few body control features
BOTTOM-LINE
Jetta models with the standard 6-speed manual transmission have an EPA-estimated rating of 29 mpg city, 43 mpg highway, and 34 mpg combined. Models equipped with the optional 8-speed automatic transmission, including the S, SE, and SEL, have an EPA-estimated rating of 31 mpg city, 41 mpg highway, and 35 mpg combined. Overall, the Volkswagen Jetta offers excellent fuel efficiency and performance, making it a great choice for eco-conscious drivers.
6. 2023 SUBARU IMPREZA(MANUAL) SEDAN.
MSRP: $20,815
COMBINED FUEL ECONOMY: 28/36 MPG
OVERVIEW
The Subaru Impreza is a top-notch vehicle that offers excellent value for its price point, with great fuel efficiency and fuel economy. As the smallest car in Subaru's lineup, the Impreza sedan boasts all-wheel drive, a spunky ride, and a well-designed interior. It also provides ample safety features to protect the driver and passengers. Overall, the Subaru Impreza is a great choice for drivers looking for a compact car with advanced features and a fun driving experience.
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PROS
- Available forward collision warning.
- Blind-spot monitoring.
- Lane-keeping assist.
- Emergency braking system.
CONS
- Limited cargo space
- Sluggish acceleration
- Air vents are poorly placed
BOTTOM-LINE
The Impreza is a slower vehicle compared to other Subaru models, but it offers reliable and efficient performance with its 4-cylinder engine that produces 152 horsepower and 145 torque. The Impreza sedan is the most popular model, but the hatchback version is also a great choice. Both models come equipped with a 5-speed manual transmission. Overall, the Subaru Impreza is a well-rounded and reliable car that offers a comfortable and efficient driving experience.
7. 2023 NISSAN VERSA S.
MSRP: $17,000
COMBINED FUEL ECONOMY:32/40 MPG
OVERVIEW
The Nissan Versa S has recently undergone another redesign, adding numerous new features and capabilities. This car is well-made and offers a range of interior features, including modern technology and advanced safety capabilities that justify its price. Overall, the Nissan Versa S is an attractive and capable compact car that offers excellent value for money.
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This car is equipped with a 4-cylinder engine that allows for excellent fuel economy and a comfortable driving experience around town. The Nissan Versa offers great short and medium-distance drives, making it one of the most affordable cars with excellent gas mileage on the market. It is also equipped with Versa's advanced driver safety aids, which help prevent collisions with oncoming vehicles and assist with lane keeping. Overall, the Nissan Versa is a reliable and safe choice for drivers looking for a compact car with great fuel efficiency.
PROS
- Generous cargo capacity.
- User-friendly infotainment system.
- Limited cargo space
CONS
- Sluggish acceleration.
- Not much interior storage for smaller items.
BOTTOM-LINE
The Versa is equipped with an automatic CVT and has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 35 mpg combined, providing sustainable gas savings. It is also ready with an advanced safety and protection system, making it a reliable and secure choice for drivers.
8. 2023 MITSUBISHI MIRAGE ES HATCH BLACK.
MSRP: $18,445
COMBINED FUEL ECONOMY: 36/43 MPG
OVERVIEW
The 2023 Mitsubishi Mirage is one of the most affordable new vehicles on the market. It offers a budget-friendly means of transportation and comes equipped with basic modern comforts. The Mirage also boasts a range of helpful features and advanced safety systems, including a 7.0-inch infotainment display screen. Overall, the Mirage is a well-equipped and value-oriented car that provides a comfortable and convenient driving experience.
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PROS
- Great cargo space
- Standard atmosphere app
- Long warranty coverage
CONS
- Few drivers' safety aids.
- Lackluster engines
BOTTOM-LINE
In terms of fuel economy, the Mitsubishi Mirage is a 5-seater car that comes in three trim levels, with the most popular being the G4 LE CVT, which starts at $18,890 and is powered by a 1.2L I3 engine. This car can achieve 36 MPG in the city and 43 MPG on the highway. Overall, the Mirage offers excellent fuel efficiency and a comfortable driving experience at an affordable price.
9. 2023 TOYOTA CAMRY
MSRP: $29,615
COMBINED FUEL ECONOMY: 28/39MPG
OVERVIEW
The 2023 Toyota Camry is a spacious midsize sedan that can accommodate up to 5 passengers comfortably. It is one of the most fuel-efficient cars on the market today and comes at an affordable price. The Camry offers a smooth and comfortable ride, making it a great option for drivers looking for a reliable and cost-effective car.
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The Toyota Camry is a 5-seater car that comes in 13 different trim levels. The most popular is the SE Automatic FWD, which starts at $28,580 and comes with a 2.5L I4 engine and Front Wheel Drive, providing a smooth and comfortable ride. This Camry is expected to deliver 28 MPG in the city and 39 MPG on the highway.
The Toyota Camry is one of the most popular sedans on the market, and for good reason. With numerous trim options, including all-wheel drive and a fuel-efficient hybrid, there is a Camry to suit every type of buyer. Overall, the Camry offers a well-rounded and reliable driving experience at an affordable price.
PROS
- soft design
- Comfort space
CONS
- Luck luster Engine
BOTTOM LINE
The Camry focuses on passenger comfort with a smooth and quiet ride, as well as advanced features in the cabin. This comfort extends to the rear seating area, which can accommodate up to 5 passengers. A range of advanced safety features and an intuitive infotainment system round out the Camry's impressive package. Overall, the Camry offers a comfortable and well-equipped driving experience that is perfect for families and daily commuters alike.
10. 2023 HYUNDAI ACCENT SE
MSRP: $16,645
COMBINED FUEL ECONOMY:33/41 MPG
OVERVIEW
The Hyundai Accent offers great value with its low price, generous warranty coverage, and pleasant handling. However, it is worth noting that other models in this class offer more cargo space and a wider range of safety features. The most popular model is the SEL, which starts at $16,645 and comes with a 1.6L I4 engine. This Accent is expected to deliver 33 MPG in the city and 41 MPG on the highway. Overall, the Accent is an affordable and reliable car that offers a smooth and efficient driving experience.
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PROS
- Low-price pricing
- Generous warranty coverage
CONS
- Slow acceleration
BOTTOM-LINE
If you're looking for a car that costs less than $20,000, you likely want a model that won't strain your budget when it comes to ownership costs. The Accent excels in this regard. It comes with an impressive warranty that covers repairs for up to a year after purchase, providing better assurance than rival subcompacts such as the Mini Hardtop. Additionally, its excellent fuel efficiency helps to reduce your gas bills. Overall, Accent offers great value for the price, providing a reliable and affordable car that is easy to own.
11. 2023 TOYOTA AVALON
MSRP: $39,950
COMBINED FUEL ECONOMY:43/44 MPG
OVERVIEW
The Toyota Avalon offers a sleek and smooth design, with a dashboard that is dominated by a 12.3-inch touchscreen and a digital gauge cluster. The cabin is comfortable and spacious, featuring high-quality materials and durable plastics. Overall, the Avalon provides a luxurious and refined driving experience that is perfect for long road trips and daily commutes alike.
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The Toyota Avalon is competitively priced, starting around $40,000 for the SLE model and going up to around $50,000 for the Platinum model. The Avalon also comes equipped with a front suspension and a multilink rear suspension, providing a smooth and comfortable ride. Additionally, it features Active Cornering Assist, which uses stability control to reduce understeer in corners. Overall, the Avalon offers a well-rounded and well-equipped driving experience that is perfect for families and daily commuters alike.
PROS
- Still among the cheapest cars available.
- Sharp updated looks.
CONS
- Less rear legroom than the competition.
- Slightly increased price.
BOTTOM-LINE
According to Toyota, the Avalon produces 236 horsepower and can achieve a combined fuel economy of 43 mpg. It is also equipped with an EV mode that allows for electric-only driving over short distances at low speeds. The Avalon's hybrid setup pairs a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine with three electric motors, resulting in a total output of 340 horsepower in the high-torque range. The engine and electric motors are joined together through a planetary gear set, allowing for a continuously variable ratio adjustment. Overall, the Avalon's hybrid system offers a smooth and efficient driving experience that is perfect for both city and highway driving.
12. 2023 KIA SOUL LX
MSRP: $21,085
COMBINED FUEL ECONOMY: 28/33 MPG
OVERVIEW
The 2023 Kia Soul is a quirky and utilitarian hatchback that has been redesigned for the new year. It no longer comes with a manual transmission option, and all but the Turbo model are now powered by a 2.0L four-cylinder engine paired with a CVT. The base trim, the LX, comes with an 8-inch touchscreen display (other models come with a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen) and includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard features. However, automatic emergency braking is only available as an optional add-on. Overall, the Soul offers a unique and practical driving experience that is perfect for city dwellers.
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PROS
- Great cargo space.
- Standard atmosphere app.
- Long warranty coverage.
CONS
- Limited cargo space.
- Some competitors offer performance versions.
BOTTOM-LINE
The 2023 Kia Soul is a quirky and utilitarian hatchback that offers a smooth and efficient ride. It is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, paired with a CVT, which provides 147 horsepower and 132 pounds of torque. This engine allows the Soul to reach 60 mph in 8.3 seconds, making it a solid choice for city driving. In terms of fuel economy, the Soul is estimated to achieve 29/33 mpg, making it an economical option for those looking to save on gas. The base trim, the LX, comes equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and offers optional automatic emergency braking.
13. 2023 KIA FORTE
MSRP: $20,585
COMBINED FUEL ECONOMY:28/39 MPG
OVERVIEW
The Kia Forte FE is a compact sedan equipped with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and a CVT transmission. This combination offers fuel-efficient commuting, with an estimated 35 mpg. In addition, the Forte FE comes with a range of standard features, including an 8-inch touchscreen display, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity, and automatic emergency braking. This combination of performance and convenience makes the Forte FE an appealing option for commuters.
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PROS
- A joy to drive.
- Plenty of passenger and cargo space.
- Fuel-efficient - especially the available hybrid.
CONS
- Slow
- No performance or hybrid engine options
- Dull steering and handling
BOTTOM-LINE
The Kia Forte is a compact sedan that offers excellent fuel efficiency, with EPA ratings of 28 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on highways for an estimated combined rating of 35 mpg. This fuel efficiency is thanks to the Forte's efficient turbo engines, which help it stand out among its peers. The Forte FE model is equipped with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and a CVT transmission, making it a great option for commuters. In addition, the Forte comes loaded with standard features such as an 8-inch touchscreen, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and automatic emergency braking. Overall, the Kia Forte is a great option for those seeking a fuel-efficient vehicle with modern features and safety technology.
14. 2023 CHEVROLET SPARK
MSRP: $14,595
COMBINED FUEL ECONOMY: 29/37 MPG
OVERVIEW
The Chevrolet Spark is an affordable and efficient car with a base price that won't break the bank. Its fuel economy is impressive, with an EPA rating of up to 38 mpg on the highway, making it a great choice for commuters. Despite its small size, the Spark offers a spacious interior with comfortable seating for up to four passengers. While the cargo area is on the small side, the Spark makes up for it with a range of tech features, including a standard 7-inch touchscreen display and compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the Spark lacks advanced safety features, which may be a concern for some buyers.
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PROS
- Rock-bottom base price.
- Impressive selection of tech features.
- Excellent gas mileage.
CONS
- A narrow range of safety features
- Light on cargo space.
BOTTOM-LINE
The Chevrolet Spark is a compact hatchback that offers consumers a low base price, excellent fuel economy, and a range of tech features. Its 1.4-liter engine delivers 97 horsepower and 128 Nm of torque, and the car is expected to achieve 30 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway. While the Spark has a small cargo area and limited safety features, its low price and fuel efficiency make it an appealing option for those in need of inexpensive transportation.
CONCLUSION
As we strive to shift the paradigm towards electric vehicles, the current state of infrastructure often makes it difficult to find places to plug in. However, some vehicles are designed to have efficient mileage and lower MSRP, making them a good option for those looking for a fuel-efficient and economical car that meets their needs and desires.
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