Best Economy Cars of 2025 and 2026
The Edmunds experts test drive economy contenders on our test track and in the real world. Our ratings assess performance, comfort, technology, utility, value and more. How we rank economys
Best Economy x-small sedans
Diminutive in stature and light on creature comforts, extra-small sedans are the least expensive vehicles on the market. Even so, some boast features that used to be unheard of in this class.
Not enough vehicles yet to rank
Redesigned in 2020
Read full review about2025 Nissan Versa
- Edmunds Rating
- 7.4/10
- MSRP
- $17,190 - $21,190
- Combined MPG
- 30 - 35
Best Economy small sedans
Thanks to their accessible pricing and fuel-efficient engines, small sedans are among the best-selling vehicles of all time. You can opt for value or splurge on all the bells and whistles.
1st
Redesigned in 2022
Read full review about2025 Honda Civic
- Edmunds Rating
- 8.2/10
- MSRP
- $24,250 - $31,750
- Combined MPG
- 31 - 49
2nd
Introduced in 2025
- Edmunds Rating
- 8.2/10
About Kia K4Read Summary Close SummaryÂ
The Kia K4 stands out with its roomy cabin and extensive and helpful technology features. Value is also part of the appeal; the K4 comes with a greater level of standard equipment than the competition. Our only complaint is a pair of laconic powertrains that don't deliver an engaging driving experience. Read full review
- MSRP
- $21,990 - $28,090
- Combined MPG
- 29 - 34
3rd
Redesigned in 2021
- Edmunds Rating
- 7.8/10
About Hyundai ElantraRead Summary Close SummaryÂ
The Elantra stands out with its high fuel economy, impressive technology and safety features, and roomy cabin. It's also comfortable and strong on value. The base engine is lackluster but otherwise this is a great pick for a small sedan. Read full review
- MSRP
- $22,125 - $28,975
- Combined MPG
- 31 - 36
Best Economy small hatchbacks
Small hatchbacks range from practical economy cars to entry-level luxury vehicles, but enhanced cargo-carrying versatility comes standard.
1st
Redesigned in 2022
Read full review about2025 Honda Civic
- Edmunds Rating
- 8.2/10
- MSRP
- $27,450 - $45,595
- Combined MPG
- 24 - 48
2nd
Redesigned in 2024
- Edmunds Rating
- 7.6/10
About Subaru ImprezaRead Summary Close SummaryÂ
The Subaru Impreza is a roomy and practical little hatchback. Standard all-wheel drive at a reasonable price is a nice bonus too. A lackluster driving experience and a ho-hum cabin design are its biggest drawbacks. Read full review
- MSRP
- $24,360 - $29,250
- Combined MPG
- 29 - 30
3rd
Redesigned in 2019
- Edmunds Rating
- 7.2/10
About Mazda 3Read Summary Close SummaryÂ
The Mazda 3 is a comfortable, refined and borderline luxurious little hatchback. Its available turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive are added bonuses. However, it suffers from a cramped back seat, an inconvenient cargo area design, and a high sticker price. Read full review
- MSRP
- $25,150 - $37,150
- Combined MPG
- 26 - 30
Selected 0 vehicles for comparison
FAQ
What is the best economical car to buy?
We don't think a car should be purchased on its fuel economy alone, but there are quite a few good cars that both sip fuel and are enjoyable to drive. Hybrids are generally the most efficient but often cost more than non-hybrid competitors. If your budget allows for a hybrid car, we are fond of the Honda Insight, Honda Accord Hybrid and Ford Fusion Hybrid. In the non-hybrid realm, the Honda Civic, Kia Forte and Hyundai Sonata are all well reviewed and don't consume much fuel. Learn more
What is the most reliable and economical car?
We don't track reliability data on Edmunds, but in general, we recommend looking at owners' forums to see what kind of issues they are experiencing. If you're buying from the prior owner, ask for maintenance records to see what repairs have been performed.
The most economical cars are those that consume the least amount of fuel. These are typically vehicles with hybrid powertrains. Hybrids can generate and store electricity for use while driving by harvesting the forces created during braking or by siphoning small amounts of engine power. Hybrids can then use the stored electricity to travel short distances or to keep vehicle functions operating while the vehicle is stopped. The most economical hybrids include the Honda Insight, Hyundai Ioniq, Toyota Corolla Hybrid and Toyota Prius.
Hybrids, however, are often more expensive than their non-hybrid counterparts. For buyers looking to keep costs low, the most economical non-hybrids include the Honda Civic, Hyundai Elantra, Kia Rio and Mitsubishi Mirage.
Learn moreWhat is the cheapest, most reliable car for 2019?
We don't track reliability data on Edmunds, but in general, we recommend looking at owners' forums to see what kind of issues they are experiencing. If you're buying from the prior owner, ask for maintenance records to see what repairs have been performed. Learn more