Used cars are a popular choice among budget-conscious buyers, primarily due to the savings from avoiding the steep depreciation that affects new vehicles. Beyond the lower sticker price, fuel efficiency is another major factor that can save owners significant money over time.
Selecting a used vehicle with excellent gas mileage means spending less at the pump, especially as fuel prices fluctuate. With that in mind, this summary explores the top 2022 used cars known for fuel efficiency, blending practicality, technology, and value without venturing into electric or plug-in hybrid territory.
1. Honda Civic: Efficient and Engaging
The 2022 Honda Civic offers a smart blend of sporty performance and stellar fuel economy. Redesigned for 2022, it delivers up to 33 mpg city and 42 mpg highway with the 1.5-liter turbo engine. Even base models still impress with 31/40 mpg.
The Civic’s appeal also includes sharp handling, a sleek, modern cabin, and ample passenger space. Though the performance-focused Si variant isn’t as fuel-efficient, the Civic overall remains a reliable and frugal pick for daily driving, combining fun with function.
2. Volkswagen Jetta: Roomy and Reliable
The 2022 Volkswagen Jetta stands out in the compact sedan class with its roomy cabin and intuitive infotainment system. While it’s not the flashiest option, it offers solid performance and great fuel economy.
With the manual transmission, the Jetta achieves 29 mpg city and 43 mpg highway. Automatic versions are close behind, with up to 31 mpg city and 41 highway. Though the GLI trim sacrifices efficiency for sportiness, the Jetta remains a practical and comfortable daily commuter.
3. Hyundai Elantra: Value-Packed Performer
Hyundai’s 2022 Elantra is a strong contender thanks to its excellent fuel economy, generous features, and fun driving dynamics. It achieves up to 33 mpg city and 43 mpg highway in the base SE trim.
Even mid-tier SEL and Limited versions are competitive at 31/41 mpg. The Elantra also comes loaded with tech like wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and safety aids such as blind-spot monitoring. While some interior materials are subpar, the Elantra delivers solid efficiency and overall value.
4. Mitsubishi Mirage: Budget Efficiency King
Though the 2022 Mitsubishi Mirage ranks low in refinement and power, its fuel economy and affordability make it worth considering for those on tight budgets. Hatchback models with CVT top out at 36 mpg city and 43 mpg highway.
Manual versions and the sedan variant offer slightly less. With a low price tag both new and used, the Mirage shines when fuel savings are the priority. While it’s not luxurious or fast, it’s an economical choice for basic transportation needs.
5. Toyota Avalon Hybrid: Luxury Meets Efficiency
The 2022 Toyota Avalon Hybrid provides luxury-sedan comfort with exceptional fuel economy. It returns 43 mpg in the city and 44 on the highway, which is impressive for a full-size car.
While not the top performer among hybrids, it offers refined handling, a quiet ride, and upscale touches like leather upholstery and heated seats. Though production ended in 2022, the Avalon Hybrid remains a smart choice for those seeking comfort and fuel savings in a larger sedan.
6. Lexus ES Hybrid: Premium Fuel Saver
Luxury and efficiency come together in the 2022 Lexus ES Hybrid. It delivers a smooth ride, high-end materials, and a serene cabin experience, all while achieving 43 mpg city and 44 mpg highway.
With standard features like a moonroof, an 8-inch touchscreen, and adaptive cruise control, the ES Hybrid offers a lot for its price. Its predicted reliability and low ownership costs add to the appeal, making it an ideal used option for those who want refinement without high fuel bills.
7. Honda Accord Hybrid: Family-Sized Fuel Economy
The 2022 Honda Accord Hybrid is a reliable, fuel-efficient midsize sedan with an elegant cabin and spacious interior. It’s ideal for families or commuters, with base trims returning 48 mpg city and 47 mpg highway.
Higher trims like the Sport and Touring trade some efficiency for features, but still impress with 44/41 mpg. With solid reliability scores and a roomy 16.7-cubic-foot trunk, the Accord Hybrid proves you don’t have to sacrifice comfort or practicality for gas mileage.
Also Read: 10 Best Hybrid Cars of 2025 That Balance Fuel Efficiency, Reliability, and Everyday Comfort
8. Kia Niro: Crossover Efficiency
The 2022 Kia Niro blends SUV versatility with hybrid-level efficiency. Its base LX trim achieves a class-leading 53 mpg city and 48 mpg highway. Other hybrid trims aren’t far behind, though Touring SE models drop to 46/40 mpg.
With nimble handling and a comfortable ride, the Niro works well in both urban and suburban settings. Though it has a smaller cargo hold than some rivals and sluggish acceleration, the Niro offers strong value for those wanting crossover convenience and hybrid savings.
9. Honda Insight: Small Car, Big Savings
Compact and efficient, the 2022 Honda Insight is a standout for urban drivers. The EX trim delivers up to 55 mpg in the city and 49 mpg on the highway. Though its hybrid powertrain can be loud under stress, it provides sufficient power for everyday use.
The Insight’s standard safety features include lane-keep assist and traffic sign recognition, enhancing its commuter appeal. With refined handling and top-tier gas mileage, it’s a solid choice for anyone prioritizing efficiency in a compact package.
10. Toyota Corolla Hybrid: Trusted and Thrifty
The 2022 Toyota Corolla Hybrid combines legendary reliability with excellent fuel economy, offering 53 mpg city and 52 mpg highway across all trims. It’s comfortable for daily drives and long trips, though cargo space and rear legroom are limited.
Still, the Corolla Hybrid delivers what most used car buyers want: low cost of ownership, strong gas mileage, and long-term dependability. If you can overlook its modest storage capacity, it’s an easy recommendation for those prioritizing practical savings.
11. Toyota Camry Hybrid: Efficiency with Space
Balancing performance and efficiency, the 2022 Toyota Camry Hybrid is a top-tier midsize sedan. The base LE trim returns 51 mpg city and 53 highway, while upper trims drop slightly due to larger wheels.
With a roomy interior, smooth ride, and advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control and emergency braking, the Camry Hybrid checks nearly every box. It’s a great choice for families or professionals seeking an efficient, reliable, and comfortable daily driver with plenty of features.
12. Toyota Prius: The Efficiency Icon
The 2022 Toyota Prius maintains its reputation for incredible fuel efficiency, achieving up to 58 mpg city and 53 highway in its L Eco trim. While not thrilling to drive, it compensates with generous cargo space, seating comfort, and long-term value.
All-wheel drive variants reduce fuel economy slightly but add winter capability. Although interior materials feel basic, the Prius remains a benchmark for hybrid efficiency, making it an enduring favorite among budget-savvy and eco-conscious used car buyers.
13. Hyundai Sonata Hybrid: Sleek and Smart
The 2022 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid blends sleek styling with hybrid efficiency. The Blue trim leads with 50 mpg city and 54 highway, while higher trims still perform well at 45/51 mpg.
Despite slightly less rear legroom than rivals, it offers strong value with standard features like blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control. Quiet and comfortable, the Sonata Hybrid suits drivers who want a modern look, refined ride, and solid efficiency in a midsize sedan.
14. Hyundai Elantra Hybrid: Tech and Mileage Combined
For those who want tech, comfort, and great fuel economy, the 2022 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid is a smart bet. The base trim returns 53 mpg city and 56 highway, while the more luxurious Limited trim gets 49/52.
It comes well-equipped with heated seats, wireless smartphone integration, and advanced safety features. While its trunk is slightly smaller than some competitors, the Elantra Hybrid’s engaging ride and efficient engine make it a leading choice for tech-savvy and eco-minded drivers.
15. Hyundai Ioniq: Final Year, Top Mileage
The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq closes its chapter with a flourish, boasting best-in-class fuel efficiency: 58 mpg city and 60 highway in the Hybrid Blue trim. While acceleration and suspension could be better, its value shines in standard features like an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, and generous cargo space.
With up to 50.7 cubic feet of storage, the Ioniq is practical as well as thrifty. Though discontinued, it remains a top pick for used car shoppers chasing maximum mileage.
Choosing a used car with excellent gas mileage can greatly reduce your long-term vehicle costs, especially in times of fuel price volatility. The 2022 model year offers a range of fuel-efficient vehicles, from compact sedans to hybrid sedans and even crossover SUVs.
Whether you prioritize affordability, features, reliability, or space, there’s a used model that fits the bill without draining your wallet at the gas station. These picks represent a smart blend of savings, sustainability, and satisfaction for the savvy car buyer.
Also Read: 10 Cars With the Best MPG That Are Also Built to Last on America’s Roads in 2025