Which Vehicles Get The Best Gas Mileage
Share on FacebookTweet thisShareIf you’re looking for a fuel-efficient car that won’t bore you, the best pick is the Honda Fit. It’s a small car with big ambitions. It’s lively to drive, it’s more spacious than its tiny footprint suggests, and it’s packed with useful tech features. And yet, it’s reasonably affordable, and it returns 36 mpg.If the Fit doesn’t suit you, there are plenty of other great fuel-efficient cars on the market.
Digital Trends has driven them all; we published nearly 90 car reviews in 2018. We’ve selected the best fuel efficient sports car, the best fuel efficient truck, and the best fuel efficient luxury car, among other options. ProductCategoryRatingHonda FitThe best overallChevrolet Colorado DuramaxThe best truck with great fuel mileageNot yet ratedAudi A4 UltraThe best luxury car with great fuel mileageFiat 124 SpiderThe best sports car with great gas mileageMazda CX-3The best SUV with great gas mileageNot yet ratedHonda Fit The bestWhy should you buy this: The Fit features impressive fuel economy without sacrificing practicality.Miles per gallon: 36 mpgHow much will it cost: $16,190+Why we picked the:Good fuel economy doesn’t mean anything if a car can’t work as a practical daily driver. Thankfully, the Honda Fit manages to pack good fuel efficiency, a surprising amount of cargo space, and a decently fun driving experience into a small package.The Fit achieves an EPA rating of 36 mpg combined (33 mpg city, 40 mpg highway) in LX models equipped with the CVT automatic transmission (CVT-equipped EX and EX-L models, as well as models equipped with the six-speed manual, are rated slightly lower). Those figures put the Fit near the top of its class.But while other vehicles sacrifice creature comforts and driving pleasure to save a little fuel, the Fit really is a complete car. Its folding Magic Seat layout frees up plenty of cargo space, and interior volume is generous at 95.7 cubic feet.
The Fit is also reliable and nice to drive, exhibiting the peppiness small Hondas are known for.Chevrolet Colorado Duramax The best truck with great fuel mileageWhy should you buy this: You need a truck that won’t break the bank.Miles per gallon: 23 mpgHow much will it cost: $36,580+Why we picked the:The current-generation Chevy Colorado (and its GMC Canyon twin) is a game changer when it comes to pickup trucks. It not only revitalized the mid-size segment, it also introduced diesel power in the form of General Motors’ 2.8-liter Duramax four-cylinder engine.Why is a diesel truck a good thing? Because a engine can return great fuel economy while still delivering the low-end grunt that trucks need.
The Colorado’s engine boasts 369 pound-feet of torque (along with 181 horsepower), allowing it to tow up to 7,700 pounds. But the Colorado also achieves an EPA-rated 23 mpg combined (20 mpg city, 30 mpg highway) with rear-wheel drive, or 22 mpg combined (19 mpg city, 28 mpg highway) with four-wheel drive.Aside from its overachieving diesel powertrain (Chevy offers two gasoline options as well), the Colorado is simply a nice truck. It rides well on the road, and offers a decent array of tech features, including a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot. Chevy also introduced the performance model, which adds impressive off-road capabilities, albeit at the expense of fuel efficiency. Audi A4 The best luxury car with great gas mileageWhy should you buy this: You want a car that’s frugal, classy, and comfortable.Miles per gallon: 30 mpgHow much will it cost: $39,200+Why we picked the:In its most basic configuration, the Audi A4 returns 30 mpg in a combined cycle, 27 mpg in the city, and 34 mpg on the highway.
Achieving those figures requires front-wheel drive, Audi’s time-tested Quattro all-wheel drive system inevitably lowers efficiency. But even with power going to two wheels, the A4 is one of the most tech-savvy small luxury sedans around.It comes with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a digital instrument cluster called Virtual Cockpit in Audi-speak. It replaces the analog gauges with a configurable screen that puts more information right in the driver’s line of sight.Power comes from a turbocharged, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 188 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque. While it’s efficient, it’s certainly no slouch.
And, a well-tuned chassis helps the driver make the most of the turbo four’s power. All of this hardware is wrapped in a sharp, elegant design. Like every Audi, the A4 is gifted with an interior that’s both nice to look at and nice to sit in.
Digital Trends drove it and walked away impressed by the quality of the materials used inside.Fiat 124 Spider The best sports car with great gas mileageWhy should you buy this: It’s a fun car that also sips fuel.Miles per gallon: 30 mpgHow much will it cost: $25,190+Why we picked the:The was already a great sports car, but Fiat took its basic platform and added some Italian flair. Inspired by a classic Fiat model from the 1960s, the 124 Spider also offers comparable fuel economy to its Mazda sibling.The 124 Spider gets an EPA-rated 30 mpg combined (26 mpg city, 35 mpg highway) with Fiat’s own 1.4-liter turbo four-cylinder engine and six-speed manual transmission. With the optional six-speed auto, the car returns 29 mpg combined (25 mpg city, 36 mpg highway).Fiat wanted to make the connection to the original 124 Spider as unique as possible, so it adorned the modern-day version with retro bodywork that gives it a dash of extra charm, and it developed a. As with the Miata, the 124 Spider’s low weight and nimble handling give it a pure driving feel that’s missing from most other modern cars.
This little Fiat is perfect for a weekend drive on your favorite stretch of twisty road.Mazda CX-3 The best SUV/crossover with great gas mileage Joel Patel/Digital TrendsWhy should you buy this: It’s SUV-like without any of the SUV drawbacks.Miles per gallon: 29 mpgHow much will it cost: $20,390+Why we picked the:The is part of a relatively new crop of subcompact crossovers that combine the tall, relatively boxy body and available all-wheel drive of a traditional SUV with the footprint of a small hatchback. Attractive styling, an eager engine, and a well-tuned chassis make the CX-3 one of the very best.The advantages of a vehicle like this are demonstrated by the CX-3’s EPA-rated fuel economy of 31 mpg combined (29 mpg city, 34 mpg highway) with front-wheel drive, and 29 mpg combined (27 mpg city, 32 mpg highway) with all-wheel drive. It may be marketed as a crossover, but the CX-3 is still a small car, and its fuel economy figures reflect that well.While Mazda isn’t the only manufacturer selling a subcompact crossover, the CX-3’s sharp handling and its peppy 2.0-liter four-cylinder put most of the competition to shame. Like other current Mazdas, the CX-3 also features a well-crafted interior that has the look and feel of something from a more upscale brand.Read our full How we testThe Digital Trends automotive team tests vehicles through a comprehensive scrutinizing process. We examine the qualities of the exterior and interior and judge them based on our expertise and experience in the context of the vehicle’s category and price range. Entertainment technology is thoroughly tested as well as most safety features that can be tested in controlled environments.Test drivers spend extensive time behind the wheel of the vehicles, conducting real-world testing, driving them on highways, back roads, as well as off-road and race tracks when applicable. Tips for fuel-efficient drivingBuying a fuel-efficient car is a good place to start, but a car is only as good as its driver.
Which Vehicles Get The Best Gas Mileage Cars
Numerous factors can affect real-world fuel economy. Some of them — like traffic congestion and topography — are out of your control, but there is still a lot you can do.
Here are some examples.Driving behavior: The way you drive has a big impact on fuel economy. Try to be as smooth as possible, and avoiding hard acceleration or aggressive braking. The idea is to do as much as possible with the momentum you have, so the engine doesn’t have to work as hard. Coasting, when possible, helps too.Vehicle controls: Turning down the air conditioning can help boost fuel economy, not to mention free up power used to run the A/C compressor in most cars. Using cruise control when appropriate is also a good idea, as it keeps the car going at a consistent rate that avoids excess throttle use.Eco mode: Many modern cars have some form of “eco” mode meant to improve efficiency.
This is usually accomplished by dulling throttle response, although some systems also affect things like transmission shift strategy and climate control. These modes usually make the car appreciably worse to drive, but might be an option worth considering for the cost-conscious.
If you’re looking for a compact car to lower your fuel costs, there are plenty that get great gas mileage and are affordable, too. GOBankingRates looked at some of the most popular and to find the ones with the best gas mileage.The average combined gas mileage of this list comes in at about 32.5 miles per gallon, but individually the MPGs range from 30 to 39. Here’s a list of the top 21 compact cars, ranked by combined gas mileage, along with a few of their features and what reviewers had to say about them. 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer. Combined MPG: 30. City MPG: 27. Highway MPG: 35.
Starting MSRP: $17,595Standard with the Lancer comes hands-free Bluetooth connectivity, fog lights, LED running lights, color LCD multi-information display, keyless entry and more.What the reviewers say: Edmunds.com didn’t like the Lancer’s noisy engine and subpar interior materials. But, they did notice it’s one of few cars in this category to offer the option of all-wheel drive. If you live in an area that demands that, it might be a bonus, they said.Read. 2016 Ford Focus. Combined MPG: 30. City MPG: 26. Highway MPG: 36.
Starting MSRP: $17,225The Ford Focus comes with a voice-activated communications and entertainment system, rearview camera and side-curtain airbags.What the reviewers say: Edmunds.com liked the Focus’s balanced handling and quiet, attractive interior, but weren’t so hot on the car’s tight backseat and not-so-great acceleration. “The Ford Focus isn’t as much of a standout as it was a few years ago, but it remains a smart choice for a small sedan or hatchback,” Edmunds said. 2016 Volkswagen Golf.
Combined MPG: 30. City MPG: 25. Highway MPG: 37. Starting MSRP: $20,175A turbocharged engine comes standard with the 2016 Golf, as does a 6.5-inch touch-screen sound system, rearview camera system and VW Car-Net App-Connect for smartphones.
It’s also the most expensive car on this list.What the reviewers say: Car and Driver said the Golf is one of its favorite rides, placing on its 10 Best list for the tenth year. “With a stout structure, the ride always feels solid and controlled,” they wrote. Add text premiere pro cc. 2016 Hyundai Veloster. Combined MPG: 30.
City MPG: 27. Highway MPG: 35.
Starting MSRP: $18,000The Veloster earned a five-star safety rating and comes with a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty. It also has some sleek lines and a “sport-bike-inspired dash” that might appeal to the athletically inclined.What the reviewers say: Edmunds.com praised the number of options available with this car and its distinctive style. They were less impressed with the “harsh and noisy ride,” and the lack of back-seat accessibility. 2016 Nissan Sentra. Combined MPG: 30. City MPG: 27. Highway MPG: 36.
Starting MSRP: $16,780An interesting feature of the Sentra is its three drive modes. Eco gives you the best fuel economy. Switch to Sport mode for some zip.
Choose Normal for a balance between the two.What the reviewers say: Edmunds.com gave this car a B rating. They liked the car’s roominess, fuel economy and price. They weren’t so thrilled with slow acceleration and the fact that Bluetooth streaming audio wasn’t standard on lower-priced models.
2016 Ford Fiesta. Combined MPG: 31. City MPG: 28.
Highway MPG: 36. Starting MSRP: $14,090The third lowest-priced car on this list is the Fiesta, narrowly beating the next car on this list, the Kia Rio. Of course, you’ll have to pay a bit more to get all the cool techie stuff that Ford is rolling out, like the next gen of voice-activated controls, navigation system and rearview camera.What the reviewers say: The Fiesta placed 4.5 out of 5 on Edmunds.com’s star-meter. They liked the spunky engine and well-appointed interior, but were disappointed in the limited cargo area and transmission options.Ranked.
2016 Kia Rio. Combined MPG: 31. City MPG: 27. Highway MPG: 37.
Which Cars Get Good Gas Mileage
Starting MSRP: $14,165The Rio features AM/FM/CD/MP3/SiriusXM Satellite Audio System, and steering-wheel mounted audio buttons, air conditioning, tilt wheel and more in the lowest-priced option.What the reviewers say: Edmunds.com reviewers gave the Rio four out of five stars, saying: “It’s not quite as refined as some class-leading rivals, but it might still win you over with its inviting cabin, strong engine performance and excellent value.”. 2016 Toyota Corolla.
Combined MPG: 31. City MPG: 28.
Highway MPG: 37. Starting MSRP: $17,300The least-expensive Toyota Corolla comes with eight airbags and LED low-beam headlights with halogen high-beams.
It also comes with a two-year, no-cost maintenance plan with roadside assistance.What the reviewers say: Kelley Blue Book liked the 2016 Corolla, complimenting its roomy interior and impressive list of standard equipment. “Toyota’s Corolla sedan for 2016 continues to offer buyers a proven commodity that delivers value, efficiency and peace of mind,” they said. 2016 Hyundai Accent. Combined MPG: 31.
City MPG: 27. Highway MPG: 38. Starting MSRP: $14,745The 2016 Accent comes with standard features such as 60/40 fold-down rear seats, tinted glass, tilt steering wheel and a 137-horsepower engine.What the reviewers say: Edmunds gave the car average marks on fuel economy and crash-test scores, but they liked the car overall.
“With handsome styling, above-average performance and solid build quality, the 2016 Hyundai Accent represents a strong choice for a small sedan or hatchback in the subcompact-car class,” they said. 2016 Kia Forte. Combined MPG: 31. City MPG: 26.
Highway MPG: 39. Starting MSRP: $15,990The Kia Forte comes standard with steering wheel controls for many systems and safety features, like dual front and front seat-mounted airbags, as well as full-length side airbags. It also comes with a SiriusXM Audio System and Bluetooth wireless connectivity.What the reviewers say: Edmunds.com liked the Forte, naming it one of their favorite compact cars this year. They liked the spacious interior and the many standard and optional features. However, they didn’t like the gas mileage as much as other cars in this class. 2016 Chevrolet Cruze. Combined MPG: 33.
City MPG: 29. Highway MPG: 41. Starting MSRP: $16,620With new styling, the Cruze also has new options, such as heated front and back seats, as well as a heated steering wheel. It also offers a standard seven-inch touch screen for entertainment and communication needs.What the reviewers say: Edmunds.com was impressed: “You’ll like the way the Cruze sips gas and how its handsome cabin has a surprising amount of room for you and your passengers. There’s plenty of the latest safety and in-car technology, too.”. 2016 Mazda3.
Combined MPG: 33. City MPG: 29.
Highway MPG: 41. Starting MSRP: $17,845If you want a car design based on the predatory stance of an animal, here it is. It also comes with Bluetooth hands-free phone and audio streaming capability, as well as an infotainment system.What the reviewers say: Edmunds.com liked the car, with few complaints.
“The versatile 2016 Mazda 3 offers powerful yet fuel-efficient engines, sporty driving dynamics and a comfortable ride. It is one of the best all-around compact cars,” the site said. 2016 Nissan Versa. Combined MPG: 35.
City MPG: 31. Highway MPG: 40.
Starting MSRP: $11,990The least expensive car on our list, the Versa promises ample room in a compact car. You can also upgrade the car with illuminated entries and a rear spoiler.What the reviewers say: The Car Connection gave this car a 6.2 out of 10. “It’s possible to get a new car that offers a surprisingly good equipment list for less money than a lot of people pay for a used car.
The 2016 Nissan Versa is that car, or one of them,” said the review, which also noted that the car has “poor safety and performance ratings.”. 2016 Honda Civic. Combined MPG: 35 (for Continuously Variable Transmission). City MPG: 31. Highway MPG: 41.
Starting MSRP: $18,640The 2016 Honda Civic features new lines, automatic climate control and security system. Upgrades include things like heated and power seats and Apple CarPlay.What the reviewers say: As for the Civic’s design, reviewers seem pleased. “This is a highly styled automobile. After years of sleepy aesthetics from Honda, we can now consider the automaker’s design team to be fully awake,” said Car and Driver. 2016 Honda Fit. Combined MPG: 36.
City MPG: 33. Highway MPG: 41.
Starting MSRP: $15,890With good cargo space for a compact and seating for five, the Honda Fit offers a lot of car in a small package. The hatchback earned top marks for safety from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, and it also.What the reviewers say: “The Fit proves that a small car needn’t be punishment for spending less, successfully mixing economy, versatility — and even a little mischief,” said Car and Driver in a five-star review. 2016 Scion iA.
Combined MPG: 37. City MPG: 33. Highway MPG: 42. Starting MSRP: $17,595The Scion iA comes with a two-year free maintenance plan, with roadside assistance and some impressive standard features such as a backup camera and remote keyless entry with push-button start.What the reviewers say: Car and Driver gave this car five out of five stars and said it was hardly simple transportation. They also liked the features. “A low-speed pre-collision safety system, Bluetooth connectivity and seven-inch touchscreen infotainment make the iA a well-equipped choice,” they wrote. 2017 Mitsubishi Mirage.
Combined MPG: 39. City MPG: 37. Highway MPG: 43. Starting MSRP: $12,995The 2017 Mirage — there was no 2016 edition — has four more horses under the hood than the 2015 model, which brings it to a not-so-whopping 78 horsepower.
It does come with some nice features, however, like standard LED taillights, halogen headlights, active stability control and a 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty. It also tops the list of compact cars with the best gas mileage.What the reviewers say: Car and Driver gave this car one out of five stars.
Their assessment: “Like fast food, it’s inexpensive, doesn’t pretend to be something it isn’t, and gets the job done.”Read:Methodology: GOBankingRates sourced the list of cars specified as compact from Car and Driver’s “Best Small Cars 2016” list and J.D. Power and Associates’ “10 Most Popular Small Cars” list, and ranked the cars by combined gas mileage, which was sourced from FuelEconomy.gov and/or car manufactures’ websites.
MPGs and MSRPs are representative of base models.