Best Economy Cars of 2023 and 2024
economy
The Edmunds experts test economy contenders on our test track and in the real world. Our ratings assess performance, comfort, technology, utility, value and more. How we rank
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
Nissan Versa
- Edmunds Rating
- 7.4/10
- MSRP
- $15,980 - $19,970
- Combined MPG
- 30 - 35
Redesigned in 2018
- Edmunds Rating
- 7.1/10
About Kia Rio
Kia should have given the Rio a new name to distance this car from the penalty-box Rios of yesteryear. Today's Rio is a grown-up small car with a relatively pleasant interior. Read full review
- MSRP
- $16,750 - $17,390
- Combined MPG
- 36
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
Honda Civic
- Edmunds Rating
- 8.1/10
- MSRP
- $23,950 - $30,550
- Combined MPG
- 31 - 36
2nd
Redesigned in 2019
- Edmunds Rating
- 7.9/10
About Kia Forte
The Kia Forte sedan has been redesigned for 2019. Overall, it more than satisfies with its mix of great features, attractive style and appealing price. Read full review
- MSRP
- $19,690 - $25,090
- Combined MPG
- 26 - 34
3rd
Redesigned in 2021
- Edmunds Rating
- 7.7/10
About Hyundai Elantra
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
- $20,950 - $34,400
- Combined MPG
- 23 - 54
Best Economy x-small hatchbacks
If you want a tidy, fuel-efficient car that's easy to park and has room for a few friends and all your stuff, it's hard to beat a little hatchback.
Not enough vehicles yet to rank
Redesigned in 2017
MINI Hardtop 2 Door
- Edmunds Rating
- 7.4/10
- MSRP
- $27,400 - $35,900
- Combined MPG
- 29 - 32
Redesigned in 2018
- Edmunds Rating
- 7.1/10
About Kia Rio
Kia should have given the Rio a new name to distance this car from the penalty-box Rios of yesteryear. Today's Rio is a grown-up small car with a relatively pleasant interior. Read full review
- MSRP
- $17,690
- Combined MPG
- 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
Honda Civic
- Edmunds Rating
- 7.9/10
- MSRP
- $24,950 - $31,450
- Combined MPG
- 29 - 35
2nd
Redesigned in 2019
- Edmunds Rating
- 7.7/10
About Mazda 3
If a fun-to-drive character and a classy interior rank high on your shopping list, then the Mazda 3 should be right at the top. It may come up short in a few categories on paper, but in the real world it's more than capable and definitely worth a test drive. Read full review
- MSRP
- $25,690 - $36,650
- Combined MPG
- 26 - 30
3rd
Redesigned in 2017
- Edmunds Rating
- 7.7/10
About MINI Clubman
A more family-friendly Mini, this little hatchback has usable interior space, a funky personality and — especially with one of the upgraded engines — no shortage of energy. But the Clubman still feels a bit restrained compared to other Mini products. It's the grown-up of the bunch, you might say. Read full review
- MSRP
- $29,900 - $42,900
- Combined MPG
- 25 - 29
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