Best Economy Cars of 2026 and 2027Best Economy Cars of 2026 and 2027
This page categorizes economys by size and ranks them by their Edmunds Ratings — a detailed 10-point scoring system that reflects our testing team's comprehensive evaluation of each vehicle. This single score is backed by an in-depth analysis across seven key categories, including driving performance, comfort, cargo space, value, fuel efficiency and more. For a deeper dive into how each vehicle performs in these areas, you can explore individual vehicle pages for detailed category breakdowns.
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Our process is rigorous: We spend hundreds of miles behind the wheel, living with each vehicle in real-world conditions to understand how well it meets daily needs. Unlike most publications, we also conduct instrumented testing at our dedicated test track, providing empirical data to support every review. What you'll find here is our honest, unbiased and fully independent evaluation of each economy and how it stacks up against the competition. Read more about how we test economys.
This page categorizes economys by size and ranks them by their Edmunds Ratings — a detailed 10-point scoring system that reflects our testing team's comprehensive evaluation of each vehicle. This single score is backed by an in-depth analysis across seven key categories, including driving performance, comfort, cargo space, value, fuel efficiency and more. For a deeper dive into how each vehicle performs in these areas, you can explore individual vehicle pages for detailed category breakdowns.
Read MoreRead Less
Our process is rigorous: We spend hundreds of miles behind the wheel, living with each vehicle in real-world conditions to understand how well it meets daily needs. Unlike most publications, we also conduct instrumented testing at our dedicated test track, providing empirical data to support every review. What you'll find here is our honest, unbiased and fully independent evaluation of each economy and how it stacks up against the competition. Read more about how we test 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.
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- •2025 Nissan Versa
Not enough vehicles yet to rank
Redesigned in 2020
Read full review about2025 Nissan Versa
- Edmunds Rating
- 6.2/10
- MSRP
- $17,390 - $21,390
- 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.
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- #12026 Honda Civic Hybrid
- #22026 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid
- #32026 Kia K4
- #42026 Hyundai Elantra
- #52026 Volkswagen Jetta
1st
Redesigned in 2022
Read full review about2026 Honda Civic Hybrid
- Edmunds Rating
- 7.9/10
- MSRP
- $24,695 - $32,395
- Combined MPG
- 31 - 49
2nd
Redesigned in 2021
- Edmunds Rating
- 7.6/10
About Hyundai Elantra HybridRead Summary Close Summary
Assuming you don't need the full-fat performance N model, the Elantra Hybrid is the Elantra to get. It's smooth, exceptionally fuel-efficient and feature-packed. A somewhat downmarket interior is the only real knock against it, but the Elantra Hybrid offers excellent value for the money and really makes a case for itself among other hybrid sedans and compact SUVs.
- MSRP
- $25,650 - $30,000
- Combined MPG
- 50 - 54
3rd
Introduced in 2025
- Edmunds Rating
- 7.5/10
About Kia K4Read Summary Close Summary
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.
- MSRP
- $22,290 - $28,890
- Combined MPG
- 28 - 33
Best Economy small hatchbacks
Small hatchbacks range from practical economy cars to entry-level luxury vehicles, but enhanced cargo-carrying versatility comes standard.
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- #12026 Honda Civic
- #22026 Kia K4
- #32026 Subaru Impreza
- #42026 Mazda 3
1st
Redesigned in 2022
Read full review about2026 Honda Civic
- Edmunds Rating
- 8.0/10
- MSRP
- $27,895 - $47,395
- Combined MPG
- 24 - 48
2nd
Introduced in 2025
- Edmunds Rating
- 7.8/10
About Kia K4Read Summary Close Summary
The Kia K4 hatchback is essentially a K4 sedan with more headroom and cargo space. It also comes packed with technology features and is priced competitively. While we wish it were a bit sportier to drive, we think the new K4 hatchback provides a compelling mix of value and practicality.
- MSRP
- $24,990 - $28,890
- Combined MPG
- 28 - 30
3rd
Redesigned in 2024
- Edmunds Rating
- 6.0/10
About Subaru ImprezaRead Summary Close Summary
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.
- MSRP
- $26,595 - $29,495
- Combined MPG
- 29
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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 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