5. Toyota Yaris iA
When Toyota slashed the Scion brand, it amalgamated its models, including the iA. This compact sedan is now the entry-level Toyota, albeit an improvement on the former. The Yaris iA uses a 1.5-liter four-cylinder to eek out 106 horsepower. It needs all of it, because the bland exterior isn’t persuading anyone.
Between a satisfactory power rating and a fresh interior design that is surprisingly nice, the Toyota Yaris iA seems like a decent option. Spice it up with a fuel-conscious rating of 35 mpg overall, based on 32 mpg city and 40 mpg highway.
4. Hyundai Elantra
Fuel efficiency isn’t just reserved for tiny cars. Hyundai offers up the Elantra with a wide range of trim levels, from the basic entry-level SE to the loaded-up Limited. One such trim is the Elantra Eco, using its 1.4-liter turbocharged four-banger to pump out 128 horsepower.
The modest trim package also includes Proximity Key, Blind Spot Detection, and a dual-clutch transmission. All of this for $20,650, and you can expect to pass more gas stations as well. The Elantra Eco achieves 35 mpg average, 32 mpg city, and 40 mpg highway. It’s a great choice if you need more space than a sub-compact.
3. Honda Civic
Who says that fuel efficient can’t still be fun to drive? Honda certainly disagrees, emphasizing their point with the Honda Civic. For 2017, the Civic comes in a sedan, coupe, or hatchback, and all with similar appeal. Its entry-level powertrain is a 2.0-liter I4 with 158 horsepower, so why not make the commute a little more enjoyable?
You can also upgrade to Honda’s 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, jacking the power up to 174 ponies. A minor drop in fuel efficiency results, so let’s stick with the 1.5-liter for now. Its efficiency takes third place with a combined EPA rating of 36 miles per gallon. Split up into its respective categories and the Civic pulls 32 mpg city and 42 mpg highway.
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