The rising cost of fuel is a persistent concern for many drivers, making the quest for a vehicle that balances utility with exceptional fuel economy more relevant than ever. As highlighted in the video above, paying upwards of $6.50 for premium fuel is a stark reminder of the financial impact vehicle choice can have. Fortunately, the market is brimming with highly fuel-efficient cars, trucks, and SUVs that don’t compromise on performance or practicality.
At Edmunds, our extensive testing regimen involves evaluating hundreds of vehicles annually, both on public roads and at our private test track. This rigorous approach ensures that our recommendations for the most efficient models are based on real-world data and comprehensive analysis. We understand that “efficiency” means different things to different drivers, which is why we’ve explored a wide range of vehicle types, from nimble subcompacts to powerful full-size trucks, all while prioritizing impressive miles per gallon (MPG).
For consistency and clarity, all fuel economy numbers mentioned, unless otherwise specified, are calculated based on the EPA’s standard 55% city / 45% highway driving split and an annual mileage of 15,000 miles. We also factor in the national average price of regular gasoline, which at the time of the video’s creation was $3.99 per gallon.
Choosing the Best Fuel-Efficient Cars: Subcompact SUVs
When the need arises for a small, affordable daily driver that also boasts practical cargo space for occasional errands, a subcompact SUV often presents an ideal solution. While many vehicles in this segment generally achieve around 30 miles per gallon, a select few stand out with truly impressive figures.
1. Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid: This vehicle perfectly encapsulates the basics done right. It offers accessible pricing, making it an attractive entry point for budget-conscious buyers, alongside decent integrated technology features that enhance the driving experience. While some rivals may offer more interior space or premium materials, none can touch the Corolla Cross Hybrid’s remarkable 42 miles per gallon. This makes it a fantastic option for those who prioritize efficiency above all else in a small crossover.
2. Kia Niro: For those seeking the absolute most efficient small crossover, the Kia Niro is a top contender. Achieving almost 50 miles per gallon, it ranks among the most fuel-efficient vehicles available today. Beyond its stellar MPG, the Niro is Edmunds’ second favorite option for a small, affordable daily driver, offering a good balance of utility and comfort. Higher trim levels can also be optioned with desirable high-end features, adding a touch of luxury. The primary consideration for some buyers will be that it is not available with all-wheel drive, which might be a deal-breaker depending on climate or driving conditions.
Highly Efficient Compact SUVs for Versatile Lifestyles
Compact SUVs have become the quintessential vehicle for a vast majority of drivers, striking an excellent balance between spaciousness and manageability. They are large enough to handle moving furniture or embarking on family road trips, yet remain small enough to navigate urban parking lots with ease. Crucially, their efficiency ensures they don’t break the bank at the pump. These are the models that truly excel in the segment’s fuel economy stakes.
1. Kia Sportage Hybrid: This model is a favorite within its class, lauded for its exceptional efficiency. It delivers a remarkably smooth ride, ensuring comfort on both short commutes and longer journeys. The Sportage Hybrid also boasts abundant interior space and clever storage solutions, complemented by solid technology and comprehensive driver assistance systems that enhance safety and convenience. Kia’s industry-leading warranty further sweetens the deal, offering peace of mind to owners. However, to achieve over 35 miles per gallon, one typically needs to opt for a front-wheel-drive base model, which might mean sacrificing features like adaptive cruise control and accepting fabric seats. All-wheel drive versions, while more capable, do not match the fuel economy of the segment’s most efficient picks.
2. Toyota RAV4 Hybrid: While the RAV4 Hybrid might not quite match the Sportage’s interior space or overall value proposition in every trim, its consistent efficiency is a significant draw. Every version of this popular SUV, with the exception of the more rugged, off-road-oriented Woodland model that features chunky tires, delivers an impressive 41 miles per gallon or better. Beyond the excellent gas mileage, the RAV4 is appreciated for its intuitive technology and well-designed interior storage solutions, making it a smart and practical choice for many. For buyers comparing equivalent all-wheel-drive trims, opting for the RAV4 Hybrid could lead to annual fuel savings of approximately $250 over a Sportage, representing a tangible financial benefit over time.
Midsize Three-Row SUVs That Prioritize Fuel Economy
For families or individuals who find a compact SUV like the RAV4 too small but a full-size SUV like a Tahoe overly large and thirsty, the midsize three-row SUV segment offers a compelling compromise. Historically, many vehicles in this class struggle to achieve gas mileage beyond the low 20s, but a new wave of hybrid options is changing that narrative.
1. Kia Telluride Hybrid: Kia’s recently redesigned and now iconic three-row SUV has made significant strides in efficiency. The introduction of a new turbocharged hybrid powertrain not only delivers more power and torque than the outgoing V6 engine but also brings excellent efficiency numbers, reaching 35 miles per gallon in front-wheel-drive configurations. Even with all-wheel drive, the Telluride Hybrid maintains a respectable 31 miles per gallon. Beyond its powertrain, the Telluride remains a standout for its stylish design, generous features, and segment-leading interior space. In comprehensive comparisons, it consistently places just behind its corporate cousin, the Hyundai Palisade Hybrid, which offers marginally less efficiency.
2. Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid: This new addition to Toyota’s lineup is a formidable competitor, trailing closely behind the Telluride in ratings. Crucially, the Grand Highlander Hybrid achieves an impressive 34 miles per gallon even when equipped with all-wheel drive, offering robust capability without a significant penalty to fuel economy. Its interior is genuinely huge, providing ample space for passengers across all three rows, complemented by a comfortable ride. The cabin is also packed with thoughtful features like numerous cubbies and slots for water bottles, phones, and keys, enhancing practicality. While the standard hybrid could benefit from a bit more power, Toyota also offers the Hybrid Max variant for those willing to trade some efficiency for increased “oomph.” The Hybrid Max provides more power than any other three-row SUV and still manages a commendable 27 miles per gallon. Although it may not match the styling or feature richness of its Hyundai/Kia rivals, the Grand Highlander is undeniably a great choice for a three-row SUV, particularly for those prioritizing space and efficiency.
Minivans: The Ultimate Family Hauler with Excellent Efficiency
When it comes to family transportation, minivans offer unparalleled space and practicality, often surpassing SUVs in sheer passenger and cargo volume. Toyota wears the efficiency crown in this category, proving that family haulers don’t have to be gas guzzlers.
1. Toyota Sienna: The Sienna consistently achieves at least 35 miles per gallon, a remarkable feat made even more impressive by the fact that this efficiency holds true even for all-wheel-drive models. Its cavernous interior, coupled with a wealth of amenities designed for passenger comfort and convenience, firmly establishes it as Edmunds’ favorite sliding-door family hauler. For large families, or those needing maximum versatility, the Sienna offers a compelling blend of space, comfort, and exceptional fuel economy.
Fuel-Efficient Trucks: Utility Meets Prudent Fuel Consumption
While trucks are primarily known for their utility, towing, and hauling capabilities, there are increasingly efficient options available for buyers who need the functionality of a pickup but are also mindful of their fuel budget.
Tiny Pickups (Compact)
1. Ford Maverick: The Ford Maverick stands out as an excellent option in the compact pickup segment, redefining what’s possible for truck fuel economy. No other truck currently on the market comes close to its impressive fuel efficiency. While some interior materials might feel a bit plasticky or inexpensive, the Maverick’s city-friendly dimensions and remarkably accessible starting price make it an incredibly appealing choice. Its fuel economy is truly outstanding, especially when considering that the only other compact pickup on the market tops out at just 25 miles per gallon. Edmunds was so impressed with its performance and value that one was purchased for a one-year road test fleet.
Midsize Pickups
1. Toyota Tacoma: The Toyota Tacoma remains one of Edmunds’ favorite midsize trucks, appreciated for its robust off-road capability and user-friendly technology. It offers a variety of cab and bed configurations to suit different needs. However, it does have a slightly smaller backseat and generates more road noise compared to some rivals, including Edmunds’ overall favorite midsize pickup, which happens to be similarly efficient. Neither of these midsize trucks are incredibly efficient in the grand scheme of all vehicles, but achieving 23 miles per gallon (not counting specialized models like the Ranger Raptor) is a very good number for a capable midsize truck that offers a comfortable ride and a pleasant interior.
Full-Size Pickups
1. GMC Sierra / Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (with Turbo Diesel): For buyers needing a true workhorse, full-size trucks are the obvious choice. The GMC Sierra and Chevrolet Silverado 1500, when equipped with the optional Turbo Diesel inline-six engine, can achieve up to 25 miles per gallon. However, there’s a significant caveat: the national average price of diesel fuel often significantly exceeds the cost of gasoline. This means that, despite the higher MPG figure, owners might actually spend more on fuel annually compared to slightly less efficient gasoline or hybrid alternatives.
2. Ford F-150 Hybrid V6: Edmunds’ favorite full-size pickup, the Ford F-150, offers an excellent balance of capability and efficiency with its Hybrid V6 powertrain. This recommended engine averages around 23 miles per gallon. The F-150 embodies nearly everything one could desire in a full-size truck: it is hugely capable for towing and hauling, supremely spacious for passengers and cargo, and provides a remarkably comfortable ride. While 23 miles per gallon might not compete with the most efficient sedans, for a truck of its size and capability, it represents truly excellent fuel-efficient truck performance.
Regular Cars: Unmatched Fuel Economy for Everyday Driving
If maximizing efficiency is the absolute top priority and the extra space or utility of an SUV or truck isn’t a necessity, traditional sedans and compact cars remain the champions of fuel economy. These vehicles are designed from the ground up to sip fuel, offering outstanding miles per gallon figures.
1. Hyundai Elantra Hybrid: For a small and affordable option, the Hyundai Elantra Hybrid is hard to beat. It delivers terrific mileage, making it an ideal choice for minimizing fuel stops. It’s rare to find a compact sedan that offers so many high-end features at its price point, and it’s surprisingly spacious for a car of its size. While the Elantra Hybrid can feel a little sluggish at times and some interior materials might come across as cheap, it remains a fantastic fuel-sipping option. It’s enjoyable to drive, exceptionally fuel-efficient, and comes packed with modern features, making the Elantra Hybrid a very strong contender if stretching every gallon is key.
2. Toyota Prius: The Toyota Prius is virtually synonymous with hybrids and exceptional fuel economy, and the latest iteration upholds this reputation as the most efficient car on Edmunds’ list. Achieving an incredible 57 miles per gallon in its base trim with smaller, lighter wheels, the Prius offers unparalleled efficiency. Unlike some hybrids, it’s also genuinely enjoyable to drive, free from the power inefficiency that can sometimes be noticed in other models. The primary drawbacks are a somewhat tight backseat for taller passengers and an engine that can be noisy under hard acceleration. Nevertheless, this is widely considered the best Prius ever produced, setting a new benchmark for hybrid efficiency and driving dynamics.
3. Honda Civic Hybrid: This compact hybrid strikes an impressive balance between efficiency and overall driving experience. It offers a more engaging drive and a nicer interior compared to some of its rivals. At this level of efficiency, where differences are often a matter of a few miles per gallon, the slight variations in annual cost or emissions are less significant than with larger, less efficient vehicles like trucks and SUVs. For many buyers, the Civic’s superior interior design and day-to-day practicality will outweigh a minor difference in MPG.
4. Hyundai Sonata Hybrid: If interior space is a higher priority than the absolute smallest footprint, the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid presents a compelling option. It offers nearly the same level of efficiency as many compact hybrids but in a larger, midsize sedan package, representing strong value for money. The Sonata also features distinctive styling that sets it apart in its price bracket, along with a suite of great technology features.
5. Toyota Camry Hybrid: Considered by Edmunds to be the best option among midsize sedans currently available, the Toyota Camry Hybrid perfectly combines excellent efficiency with a roomy interior. While higher trims with all-wheel drive and larger, heavier wheels might not match the absolute peak fuel economy of the Sonata, the Camry’s overall package is certainly worth attention. It includes a wealth of great standard driver assistance features and maintains enough character from behind the wheel to avoid feeling mundane. For those who appreciate the efficiency of a Prius but require significantly more interior space, the Camry Hybrid offers a near-perfect solution, solidifying its place among the top fuel-efficient cars.
Fueling Your Questions About Our Fuel-Efficient Recommendations
What does it mean for a car to be fuel-efficient?
A fuel-efficient car uses less fuel to travel a certain distance, typically measured in miles per gallon (MPG). This helps drivers save money on gas.
Why should I consider buying a fuel-efficient vehicle?
Choosing a fuel-efficient vehicle can significantly reduce your costs at the pump, especially with rising fuel prices, saving you money over time.
Who provides the recommendations for these fuel-efficient vehicles?
The recommendations come from Edmunds, who conduct extensive real-world testing on hundreds of vehicles each year to determine their efficiency.
Are there fuel-efficient options for different types of vehicles, like SUVs or trucks?
Yes, you can find fuel-efficient models across many vehicle categories, including subcompact and compact SUVs, midsize three-row SUVs, minivans, and even various types of trucks.
What is an example of a car known for being very fuel-efficient?
The Toyota Prius is a prime example, known for its exceptional fuel economy, with its base model achieving an impressive 57 miles per gallon.
