When car prices are at an all-time high and the economy is sluggish, getting the most bang for your buck is essential. A good start is saving thousands by buying a quality used car instead of a new one. While that’s significant, a vehicle’s fuel economy and reliability determine the ongoing cost. A well-maintained, fuel-efficient used car will cost less to own, creating more long-term value. Here’s a breakdown of the top choices for the best fuel economy in used cars, trucks, or SUVs, as reported by CARFAX and other trusted sources.
Best Fuel Economy in Used Cars
Toyota Prius
Achieving up to a combined 57 mpg, the Toyota Prius has been one of the most popular used cars with the best fuel economy for decades. The hybrid features a smooth ride, ample room for cargo and people, and is an eco-friendly alternative to conventional cars. In addition to the impressive fuel economy, the hybrid batteries can last for more than a decade.
Honda Civic
Small but roomy, the Honda Civic boasts up to 40 mpg and is one of the most reliable used cars with good fuel economy. Featuring a practical balance of performance and efficiency, the Civic is always a list-topper for quality and standard features. Whether the hatchback, sedan, or Si Coupe version strikes your fancy, you can count on excellent value and low cost of ownership.
Toyota Camry
Trucks and cars made by Toyota rival Honda’s quality and popularity, and the Camry is noted for getting some of the best fuel economy in used cars. With seating for five, a choice of front- or all-wheel drive, and a 203-horsepower engine that gets up to 39 mpg, the Camry checks all the boxes. Even the base Toyota Camry features LED headlights, smartphone connectivity, and impressive safety features.
Fuel-Efficient SUVs
Toyota RAV4
The RAV4 is a crossover that gets some of the best fuel economy in used cars or SUVs with a gas-sipping 35 mpg. Room for five and one of the largest cargo bays in a compact SUV make the RAV4 practical, sporty, and fun. Plus, some configurations can tow up to 3,500 lbs and still get good fuel economy.
Chevy Equinox
The roomy cabin and unexpectedly exceptional handling alone make the Chevrolet Equinox a small SUV worth a look. When you add up to 32 mpg fuel economy and five-star safety ratings, the Equinox is a top pick for families and adventurers. It doesn’t get the press it deserves, but the Equinox’s longevity is outstanding, with some models reaching 200,000+ miles.
Buick Encore
If you like a bit more luxury and want up to 30 mpg, the Buick Encore offers a lot of value in a small package. The short wheelbase definitely puts the model in the compact SUV category. But that compactness makes the Encore ideal for urban driving where traditional SUVs are too much. If you’re shopping for an SUV that offers affordability and performance, check out the Encore.
Hard Working Trucks With the Best Fuel Economy
Chevy Colorado
Chevrolet offers some unique options for its Colorado series, from engines to interiors. The four-cylinder diesel version expectedly gets the best fuel economy at 30 mpg, but the six-cylinder gas engine holds its own at up to 26 mpg. Whether you need a practical work truck or a family driver, the Chevy Colorado’s reliability and fuel savings are part of the package.
Dodge RAM
Just because the Dodge RAM is famous for its longevity doesn’t mean you get short-changed with fuel economy—or anything else. The RAM 1500 gets up to 25 mpg, tows up to 6700 lbs., and features sporty looks inside and out. Whether you need a heavy-duty workhorse or a capable
adventure vehicle, you’ll find both and more with a Dodge RAM.
Ford F-Series
The Ford F-Series was the best-selling pickup truck in America in 2023. That’s 47 years in a row if you’re counting, and the F-150 leads the way. When combined with the quality, reliability, and toughness of the F-150, fuel economy of up to 21 mpg is like icing on the cake. Whether you’re towing, hauling, or searching for adventure, you can’t go wrong with America’s favorite truck.
How to Improve Fuel Economy in Used Cars
Drive Mindfully
Even used cars with the best fuel economy can benefit from mindful driving. Driving mindfully means understanding a few key points and adapting your driving behaviors. Gas mileage tends to decrease when driving over 50 mph, so watch the speeding. One of the best ways to improve fuel economy on the highway is to use cruise control. Typical city stop and go driving can reduce fuel economy, so it’s essential to eliminate fast starts and stops.
Maintain Tires
A vital part of maintaining tires is to check them monthly for proper inflation. The recommended tire pressure is usually posted inside the driver’s door and in the owner’s manual. Along with improper inflation, unbalanced tires hurt fuel economy and are a safety issue. Rotating your tires as recommended makes driving safer and can improve the fuel economy of used cars.
Check the Oxygen Sensors
Oxygen sensors monitor the amount of oxygen in the exhaust system. When the oxygen is too low, it leads to increased fuel consumption. When it’s too high, it can cause overheating, decreased performance, and other issues. Have your oxygen sensors checked at the recommended intervals and when you get a check engine light or other warning.
Car Time Supercenter: Putting Tucson Behind the Wheel Since 1984
Save time and money when you shop for best fuel economy in used cars at Car Time Supercenter. Our family-owned dealership has helped Tucson drivers find used cars with good fuel economy and other must-have features for decades. Competitive prices, flexible financing, and hometown customer care make it easy to find the perfect car or truck for your lifestyle. Stop by the lot to test drive all your favorites, or call us today.
There are good reasons people will buy their next used car in Tucson from Car Time Supercenter. But I think we are one of the most trusted used car dealerships mainly because we treat everyone like family. My family has provided quality, dependable local used cars to Tucson customers since 1984, and I’m proud to be a part of our continued success.
Like many family-owned businesses, I grew up going to work with my dad. Falling in love with cars was natural because of my father’s passion, and eventually, I came to love the car business just like him. I officially joined the Car Time Supercenter team in 2012, starting in the finance department. Over the past decade, I’ve learned the used car business and how to treat customers from my family and industry resources.
Today, I oversee marketing, social media, inventory, and reconditioning, so I play an essential role in delivering local Tucson used car buyers the best experience possible. I also help our family business keep up with the times while providing old-fashioned customer service. From attending NADA classes to becoming Allstate certified for back-end products, I continue to learn and add skills to serve our customers better.
