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Best Economy Cars of 2021 and 2022

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Economy x-small sedans

Diminutive in stature and light on creature comforts, extra-small sedans are the least expensive vehicles on the market. They don't offer many frills, but some come with advanced safety and infotainment features that used to be unheard of in this class.
2020 Toyota Yaris
1
Introduced in 2016

Toyota Yaris

MSRP
$15,650 - $18,750
Edmunds Rating
7.4 out of 10
Combined MPG
34 - 35
2021 Hyundai Accent
2
Redesigned in 2018

Hyundai Accent

MSRP
$15,395 - $19,500
Edmunds Rating
7.2 out of 10
Combined MPG
33 - 36
2020 Nissan Versa
3
Redesigned in 2020

Nissan Versa

MSRP
$14,830 - $18,340
Edmunds Rating
7.1 out of 10
Combined MPG
30 - 35

Economy small sedans

Thanks to their low prices, fuel-efficient engines and commendable utility, small sedans rank as some of the best-selling vehicles of all time. There's something for everyone in this class, from practical entry-level models to higher trims with all the bells and whistles.
1
Redesigned in 2016

Honda Civic

MSRP
$21,050 - $28,100
Edmunds Rating
8.4 out of 10
Combined MPG
32 - 36
2
Redesigned in 2019

Kia Forte

MSRP
$17,890 - $23,290
Edmunds Rating
7.9 out of 10
Combined MPG
28 - 35
3
Redesigned in 2021

Hyundai Elantra

MSRP
$19,650 - $28,100
Edmunds Rating
7.7 out of 10
Combined MPG
28 - 54

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. The diminutive size of these models belies their impressive versatility.

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RankVehicleAdditional Information
Introduced in 2016

Toyota Yaris

The Yaris hatchback is one of the smallest and least expensive vehicles in Toyota's lineup. Even so, it's a pleasing urban runabout that should work out well for shoppers on a budget.
MSRP
$15650 - $18750
Edmunds Rating
7.4 out of 10
Combined MPG
34 - 35
RankVehicleAdditional Information
Redesigned in 2014

Mitsubishi Mirage

The Mitsubishi Mirage is inexpensive, and it will get you from point A to point B. Refinement, power, technology, quality, attention to detail and value are all lacking.
MSRP
$13995 - $17295
Edmunds Rating
5.7 out of 10
Combined MPG
36 - 39

Economy small hatchbacks

Small hatchbacks range from practical economy cars to entry-level luxury vehicles, offering a range of features and price points. Many are variants of small sedans with a healthy dose of added cargo space.

RankVehicleAdditional Information
1
Redesigned in 2019

Hyundai Veloster

Sporty yet practical, the Veloster is just what a small hatchback should be. It's smartly packaged, affordable, and provides something a little different from the norm. While there are a few minor concessions, the Veloster has a lot going for it overall.
MSRP
$18900 - $33750
Edmunds Rating
8.3 out of 10
Combined MPG
22 - 30
RankVehicleAdditional Information
2
Redesigned in 2016

Honda Civic

The Honda Civic is one of our favorite small cars, and the hatchback variant adds the virtue of increased cargo capacity. Standard turbocharged power, nimble handling and strong fuel economy are just a few of the Civic's strengths.
MSRP
$22000 - $43995
Edmunds Rating
8.0 out of 10
Combined MPG
25 - 34
RankVehicleAdditional Information
3
Redesigned in 2016

MINI Hardtop 4 Door

Few rivals offer as much fun as the Mini Hardtop 4 Door, a rambunctious hatchback that's always ready to go. There's a lot of available customization options, too, although the price can shoot up quickly when you dip into that menu.
MSRP
$22900 - $26900
Edmunds Rating
7.8 out of 10
Combined MPG
26 - 31

Edmunds' experts test 200 vehicles per year on our test track. We also test them using a 115-mile real-world test loop of city streets, freeways and winding canyons. The data we gather results in our ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover performance, comfort, interior, technology, utility and value.

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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 more

What 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

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