With soaring gas prices all over the world, the cost of gasoline is the biggest monthly expense for many people. It is no wonder then why so many people are trading in their older vehicles for newer cars with a much better fuel economy. Commercials, billboards, and roadside signs at nearly every car lot advertise vehicles that are now capable of getting 20, 30, and 40+ MPG. Which of these vehicles, however, gets the best gas mileage and which one is the most affordable for mid-sized families?
- Mitsubishi I (I-Miev):
The Mitsubishi I isn’t the most stylish vehicle around and it isn’t very powerful, but it does get the best fuel economy compared to virtually every other car in existence. With an overall rating of 54.1 out of 100 from Motorscore.com, the Mitsubishi I gets 126 MPG in the city and 99 MPG on the highway. The vehicle has four seats, a quiet engine, and plenty of cargo room, but don’t expect this marvel in fuel economy to gain you any points with the ladies. The Mitsubishi I has an MSRP of $29,125.
- Toyota Prius:
The Toyota Prius, often mocked for being a “chick car”, is much more stylish than the Mitsubishi I and still gets great gas mileage. The Toyota Prius has a futuristic design, accommodates up to 5 passengers, and has plenty of cabin space to fit even the largest of passengers. The Toyota Prius gets 51 MPG in the city and 48 MPG on the highway and has a MSRP price of $24,000 – $29,805.
- Honda Insight:
While the Honda Insight may not have a lot of cargo room, its seating areas are spacious and the car can fit up to 5 passengers. The Honda Insight is known for its comfortable seats, but poor rear visibility, and gets a fuel economy of 41 MPG in the city and 44 MPG on the highway. While the Honda Insight has a fuel economy nearly matching that of the Toyota Prius, it is available for a much lower price with an MSRP of just $18,500 – $21,965.
- Lexus CT200h:
For those who like to ride around in style, still get good gas mileage, and don’t mind paying the extra price, the Lexus CT200h is one of the most stylish and fuel economic vehicles that can be purchased on a budget. With an MSRP of $29,120 – $30,900, the Lexus CT200h gets 43 MPG in the city and 41 MPG on the highway. The Lexus CT200h fits 5 passengers and is marketed as a luxury vehicle.
- Toyota Camry Hybrid:
The Toyota Camry Hybrid is another luxury vehicle that can be purchased on a moderate budget, with an MSRP of $25,990 – $27,500. The Toyota Camry Hybrid gets 43 MPG in the city and 39 MPG on the highway, seats five passengers, and is known for its quiet engine, nearly soundproof cabin, and excellent acceleration. Shaped like a cross between a Buick and a Charger, the Toyota Camry Hybrid is a great car for anyone who wants to look like they’re richer than they are while getting great gas mileage.
Author Bio: Matt is from the team at Motorscore.com, the website that does for cars what Rotten Tomatoes does for movies.