Fuel efficiency is a top priority for many drivers, and although transitioning fully electric takes time, regular internal combustion engine cars still offer ways to save at the pump.

The 2024 Mitsubishi Mirage hatchback is an energy-efficient minicar that achieves 49 MPG combined – impressive even by subcompact standards!

1. Toyota Camry Hybrid

The Camry Hybrid is an excellent option for drivers who prioritize fuel economy. According to EPA estimates, its hybrid model achieves 52 mpg combined – more than any of our midsized sedans!

The hybrid Camry offers more cargo room and standard features than its rivals such as Hyundai Sonata and Honda Accord hybrids, making this vehicle particularly appealing. Unfortunately, however, its only real drawback may be its regenerative brakes which may feel grabby at times.

Toyota offers the Camry XSE hybrid as an economical and exciting vehicle option, featuring a 208 hp gas/electric powertrain and front wheel drive. It offers an exceptionally smooth and quiet ride while easily managing bumps at low speeds.

2. Kia Niro FE

Kia’s Niro hybrid offers great utility without all-wheel drive or ground clearance requirements, boasting EPA ratings of 52 city/49 highway/50 combined for optimal fuel economy. Powered by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder and electric motor, this fuel efficient vehicle delivers 52 city/49 highway/50 combined mileage.

Kia Niro shares its corporate platform with Hyundai Ioniq and differs only slightly in length and cargo capacity when compared with Toyota Prius, making it less of a hatchback and more of a car-based crossover. Kia also includes smart features like Eco Driving Assistance to guide drivers while Predictive Energy Control monitors battery charges to predict when energy needs arise and use.

3. Hyundai Elantra Hybrid

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid may be an affordable car on this list, but that doesn’t mean sacrificing drivability and comfort. The hybrid stores energy in a lithium-ion battery pack located beneath the rear seats. Although producing less power than its conventionally powered sibling, our Limited test vehicle still proved quick and responsive. Plus, advanced safety features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane keep assist, and automatic high beams ensured it was up for any adventure!

The Blue trim of Elantra Hybrid features an efficient 1.6-liter inline four and 32 kW electric motor that combine to generate 139 horsepower, offering impressive EPA ratings of up to 54 mpg combined. Front-wheel drive and six-speed EcoShift dual clutch transmission ensure smooth and enjoyable driving experiences.

4. Nissan Versa

Since Kia Rio and Mitsubishi Mirage G4 have both been discontinued, Nissan Versa remains as one of the last pint-sized efficient cars on sale in its segment. Even with its weak 122 horsepower four-cylinder, which struggles under its short hood, this pint-sized efficiency provides class-leading fuel economy estimates of 32 city and 40 highway mpg estimates from the EPA.

The base Versa S is equipped with a five-speed manual transmission, while Nissan’s Xtronic continuously variable transmission in its midgrade and top-of-the-line SR models is quick-witted and designed to keep engine performance at its optimum point for silky acceleration. Furthermore, D-Step logic reduces that rubber band effect that sometimes plagues CVTs.

5. Volkswagen Jetta

Volkswagen’s compact Jetta might seem boring to some and its performance varied, yet it remains an ideal choice for shoppers with needs such as driving dynamics and practical features. Plus, its outstanding fuel economy means savings at the pump!

Its estimated 30/41 mpg city/highway1 rating is improved further with available auto start-stop technology that reduces unnecessary engine idling. A standard turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder generates 158 horsepower for quick acceleration. If you prefer more sportiness, then consider upgrading to the Jetta GLI which features 228 horsepower with seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission as well as VW’s IQ Drive suite of safety and semi-automated driver assistance features.

6. Honda Civic Hybrid

Honda hopes that with their hybrid sedan, Honda hopes to push the Civic further upmarket while also appealing to younger buyers who are searching for an eco-friendly vehicle that’s still fun and engaging to drive.

Honda’s Civic Hybrid utilizes a similar set-up as their CR-V and Accord hybrids, meaning it can switch seamlessly from petrol power to electricity in short bursts when required. Furthermore, unlike many hybrids on the market today, its switchover between petrol and electricity power is virtually undetectable thanks to a smoothly variable transmission that ensures seamless changeover between fuel types; handling is maintained while still offering enough grip for enthusiastic drivers without compromising fuel efficiency.