If you’re hunting for the best MPG used cars, you’re probably tired of gas receipts that feel like a second car payment. The good news: there’s an entire generation of used hybrids and thrifty gas sedans that can deliver 40–55 mpg without feeling like penalty boxes. In this guide, we’ll walk through the stand-out models, how their real-world MPG stacks up, and how they compare with used EVs on total cost of ownership.
Quick snapshot
Most shoppers looking for the best MPG used cars end up in one of three camps: older ultra-high-mpg hybrids (50+ mpg but dated tech), newer mainstream hybrids (45–52 mpg with better safety and comfort), or efficient non-hybrid compacts (35–40 mpg and usually cheaper to buy). We’ll hit all three, plus where used EVs fit in.
Why the best MPG used cars matter in 2025
Fuel economy in context: why MPG still matters
Even as EV adoption rises, millions of drivers still rely on gas. If you drive long highway stretches, live in an apartment, or just aren’t ready for a plug, a high‑MPG used car is still one of the simplest ways to slash your running costs. Over five years, the difference between a 25 mpg sedan and a 50 mpg hybrid can easily add up to thousands of dollars in fuel savings.
Think in dollars, not just MPG
When you compare cars, translate MPG into annual fuel cost using your real commute. A spreadsheet beatdown of your current car vs a 45–55 mpg replacement is often the aha moment that justifies upgrading.
How to read MPG and MPGe ratings
Gas cars: city / highway / combined
For conventional gas and hybrid cars, the EPA posts three main numbers:
- City MPG – stop‑and‑go, lower speeds
- Highway MPG – steady cruising
- Combined MPG – a weighted mix, the best apples‑to‑apples number when comparing cars
When people talk about the best MPG used cars, they’re usually referring to combined MPG.
EVs & plug‑in hybrids: MPGe
Electric and plug‑in hybrid models use MPGe, or miles per gallon equivalent. It converts the energy in electricity to the equivalent energy in a gallon of gas.
For this guide, we’ll focus on traditional MPG, but we’ll also explain where used EVs fit in and why they can still beat even a 50 mpg hybrid on total cost.
Real-world vs EPA MPG
EPA numbers are a standardized lab test. In the real world, things like temperature, speed, and tire choice matter. Hybrids often beat their city ratings if you drive gently, while highway numbers are usually closer to reality.
Top high-MPG used hybrids
If your goal is to squeeze every mile out of a gallon, a hybrid is still the easiest path. Here are some of the best MPG used cars in hybrid form, models that show up again and again on 2025 recommendation lists for their mix of efficiency, reliability, and comfort.
Best MPG used hybrid cars to target
All of these have combined EPA ratings roughly in the mid‑40s to high‑50s depending on year and trim.
Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid
The mileage champ in many real‑world tests, the Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid is repeatedly cited as one of the most fuel‑efficient used hybrids you can buy, with EPA estimates reaching the high‑50s mpg combined on some trims.
- Typical combined MPG: 54–59 mpg
- Best years to shop: 2017–2022
- Body style: Practical hatchback with lots of cargo space
If you want to max out MPG without going full plug‑in or EV, this is a top contender.
Toyota Prius (3rd & 4th gen)
The cliché is true: a used Toyota Prius remains one of the best MPG used cars for commuters.
- Typical combined MPG: 48–56 mpg depending on generation
- 2010s models are common and inexpensive, later ones feel more refined
- Huge aftermarket and dealer support, easy to service almost anywhere
Earlier cars feel basic but just keep going; newer ones add safety tech and better ride quality.
Honda Accord Hybrid
The Honda Accord Hybrid manages a neat trick: midsize‑sedan space and comfort with compact‑car fuel bills.
- Typical combined MPG: around 44–48 mpg
- Best years to shop: 2017+ for modern safety and infotainment
- Great if you regularly carry adults or do highway road trips
If you want one car that can do family duty and commute stress‑free, put this at the top of your list.
Toyota Camry & Corolla Hybrid
Both the Camry Hybrid and Corolla Hybrid combine Toyota reliability with stellar mileage.
- Camry Hybrid combined MPG: roughly 46–52 mpg
- Corolla Hybrid combined MPG: roughly 44–52 mpg
- Best years: late‑2010s onward for updated safety, more power, and quieter cabins
Camry is the adult‑sized highway cruiser; Corolla is the tidy, easy‑to‑park city car.
Sweet spot: 2017–2022 hybrids
For most shoppers, late‑2010s to early‑2020s hybrids are the sweet spot: you get high‑40s or better MPG, modern safety tech, and far more refinement than early hybrid pioneers, usually at approachable prices.
Best MPG used gas cars (non-hybrids)
Hybrids aren’t for everyone. Maybe you prefer simpler drivetrains, a lower purchase price, or your mechanic’s familiarity with a conventional engine. The good news is that there are several non‑hybrid small cars that crack the mid‑30s to high‑30s MPG combined, and some flirt with 40 mpg.
High-MPG used gas cars to look for
These non‑hybrid compacts and subcompacts regularly show up on lists of the most fuel‑efficient gas‑only cars.
Honda Civic (gas)
Recent Honda Civic sedans have combined ratings in the mid‑30s, with some trims around 36 mpg combined.
- Dependable, spacious for the class, and great to drive
- Popular enough that you’ll find plenty of used choices
Hyundai Elantra (gas)
The current‑generation Elantra SE is another efficiency leader, with combined ratings in the 35–36 mpg range.
- Often priced sharply used
- Bold styling and long factory warranty coverage on newer cars
Toyota Corolla (gas)
Toyota’s stalwart compact sedan typically returns around 34–35 mpg combined, with some trims even higher.
- Strong resale value and long‑term reliability
- Feels familiar and easy to live with
When a non‑hybrid makes more sense
If you drive fewer than 8,000–10,000 miles per year, or you can buy a non‑hybrid for several thousand less than a comparable hybrid, the fuel savings may not justify the extra upfront cost. In that case, a 35–40 mpg conventional compact can be the smarter buy.
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Used EVs vs best MPG used cars: what really saves you more?
This is where things get interesting. A 50 mpg hybrid looks unbeatable, until you pencil in electricity costs, tax incentives, and maintenance savings on a used EV. For many daily drivers, especially if you can charge at home, a used EV can undercut even the best MPG used cars on cost per mile.
Fuel cost head‑to‑head (rough math)
- 50 mpg hybrid at $3.50/gal fuel and 12,000 mi/year ≈ $840/year in gas.
- Used EV averaging 3.5 mi/kWh and $0.15/kWh electricity ≈ $515/year in power.
That’s a rough savings of around $300 per year in favor of the EV, before you factor in oil changes, belts, and exhaust systems you’ll never buy for an electric car.
Where Recharged comes in
The big unknown with used EVs is the battery. That’s why every EV sold on Recharged comes with a Recharged Score battery health report, so you can see real, measured capacity and projected range, not just hope the previous owner treated it kindly.
If you’re cross‑shopping a 50 mpg hybrid and a used EV, that kind of transparency helps you see the full picture: fuel savings, battery health, and long‑term value.
Think long‑term, not just at the pump
If you have access to home or workplace charging, don’t ignore used EVs. A reasonably‑priced EV with good battery health can be cheaper to fuel and maintain than even the best MPG used gas car. Recharged can also help with financing, trade‑ins, and nationwide delivery if you decide to make the jump.
Comparison table: best MPG used cars at a glance
Representative MPG figures for popular high-efficiency used cars
Approximate EPA combined MPG ranges for common high‑MPG used models. Exact numbers depend on trim, year, and options.
| Model | Powertrain type | Approx. combined MPG | Typical strengths | Typical trade‑offs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid | Hybrid | 54–59 mpg | Class‑leading fuel economy, hatchback practicality | Ride can feel firm, less brand recognition than Toyota/Honda |
| Toyota Prius | Hybrid | 48–56 mpg | Outstanding efficiency, proven reliability, huge parts and service network | Older models feel basic and can be noisy on the highway |
| Honda Accord Hybrid | Hybrid | 44–48 mpg | Midsize comfort, long highway range, strong safety scores | Larger car means higher tire costs vs a compact |
| Toyota Camry Hybrid | Hybrid | 46–52 mpg | Comfortable highway cruiser, very reliable | Conservative styling, higher prices in some markets |
| Toyota Corolla Hybrid | Hybrid | 44–52 mpg | Easy to drive and park, great commuter | Back seat and trunk smaller than midsize sedans |
| Honda Civic (gas) | Gas only | 35–36 mpg | Fun to drive, efficient, common and easy to service | Not as thrifty as a hybrid if you rack up big miles |
| Hyundai Elantra (gas) | Gas only | 35–36 mpg | Sharp value, high feature content | Resale value and long‑term durability still catching up to Toyota/Honda |
| Toyota Corolla (gas) | Gas only | 34–35 mpg | Bulletproof reputation, low running costs | Less exciting to drive, some road noise |
Use this as a directional guide when you’re deciding what to test‑drive first.
How to shop for a high-MPG used car
Essential steps when shopping for the best MPG used cars
1. Set your MPG and budget targets
Decide what “high MPG” means for you. Are you happy with 35–38 mpg, or do you really want 45+? Then set a hard budget cap so you’re not comparing a bargain 36 mpg compact to a much pricier hybrid without context.
2. Calculate your real-world fuel savings
Use your current car’s MPG and annual miles to estimate fuel cost over the next five years. Then compare that with a 40–55 mpg replacement. The more you drive, the more a hybrid (or EV) makes financial sense.
3. Research known issues and battery warranties
For hybrids, look up common battery and inverter issues for the model years you’re considering. Many hybrid batteries are warrantied for 8–10 years from new, so a 4‑ or 5‑year‑old car may still have coverage left.
4. Test drive both hybrid and non‑hybrid options
Drive at least one hybrid and one efficient gas compact back‑to‑back. Pay attention to ride quality, noise, and how the powertrain feels in stop‑and‑go traffic. Some people love the smooth hybrid feel, others prefer the familiarity of a gas engine.
5. Get a pre-purchase inspection
Even “bulletproof” high‑MPG cars need a careful once‑over. Ask a trusted mechanic, or for EVs, a shop that understands high‑voltage systems, to check for oil leaks, cooling issues, worn tires, and stored trouble codes.
6. For used EVs, demand a battery health report
Just like you’d ask for maintenance records on a hybrid, you should insist on seeing <strong>objective battery diagnostics</strong> on a used EV. On Recharged, that’s built into the Recharged Score so you’re not guessing at future range or degradation.
Streamline the process with Recharged
If you decide a used EV is right for you, Recharged makes the search surprisingly easy: you can shop online, get EV‑savvy guidance, arrange financing, value your trade‑in, and have the car delivered nationwide, all with a clear view of battery health and fair market pricing.
Common pitfalls when you’re chasing high MPG
- Paying too much upfront just to gain a couple of MPG on paper.
- Ignoring maintenance history, an abused 50 mpg car can cost more than a well‑kept 35 mpg one.
- Focusing only on highway MPG when your life is mostly stop‑and‑go city driving (where hybrids shine).
- Forgetting about insurance, tires, and repair costs that can differ dramatically by model.
- Dismissing used EVs without running the numbers on electricity vs gas in your area.
Don’t let MPG blind you
It’s easy to fall in love with a big MPG number and overlook the basics: safety ratings, crash repair costs, parts availability, and how the car actually feels to live with every day. Use MPG as a filter, not the only deciding factor.
FAQ: best MPG used cars
Frequently asked questions about the best MPG used cars
Bottom line: which high-MPG used car is right for you?
If you want pure fuel‑economy bragging rights, the best MPG used cars are still compact hybrids like the Hyundai Ioniq and Toyota Prius. If you want comfort and space with great mileage, midsize hybrids such as the Accord and Camry hit a sweet spot. And if your budget is tighter or your annual miles are lower, a solid 35–36 mpg compact like a Civic, Elantra, or Corolla can still move the needle on your fuel bill without stretching your wallet upfront.
And remember: there’s a fourth path. A used EV with healthy battery life can quietly undercut all of them on fuel and maintenance while eliminating gas stops altogether. On Recharged, you can compare options, get expert help, pre‑qualify for financing with no impact on your credit, and see every car’s battery health in black and white. However you choose to save at the pump, or skip the pump entirely, going efficient doesn’t mean giving up comfort or peace of mind.
