When it comes to evaluating vehicle affordability, most buyers focus on the sticker price, fuel efficiency, or even insurance premiums. But there’s a more complete—and often overlooked—metric that tells the true story of vehicle expenses: cost per mile.
This figure takes into account everything from purchase price and fuel consumption to maintenance, insurance, depreciation, and even tires, giving a comprehensive view of what it really costs to drive a particular car one mile. It’s a powerful lens through which to compare both economical and expensive vehicles, especially over long-term ownership.
In this feature, we examine the 5 vehicles with the lowest cost per mile, which excel in combining reliability, affordability, and efficiency to save their owners serious money year after year.
These models make excellent choices for commuters, fleet managers, or anyone looking to maximize every dollar spent.
We’ll then shift gears to highlight the 5 vehicles with the highest cost per mile—those that might impress with performance, luxury, or style, but come with long-term ownership costs that quietly accumulate into staggering figures. These are the models that might break budgets if you’re not prepared.
Let’s break down what makes these cars financially exceptional—or exceptionally expensive—mile after mile.
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5 Vehicles With Lowest Cost Per Mile
In an age of rising fuel prices, uncertain economic conditions, and growing environmental consciousness, the vehicles with the lowest cost per mile have become the quiet champions of practical ownership.
While many shoppers are drawn to flashy features or impressive horsepower figures, those who dig deeper into lifetime cost metrics often come out ahead—especially when keeping a car for five years or more. That’s where cost-per-mile analysis shines.
This figure includes all the critical components of real-world ownership—fuel, insurance, depreciation, maintenance, taxes, financing, and even tire wear—averaged over time and miles driven.
It strips away the marketing gloss and reveals which cars truly deliver long-term value, not just short-term savings.
The vehicles that excel in this category tend to be efficient, reliable, and relatively low in depreciation. Some are hybrids, others are small gasoline-powered sedans or hatchbacks, and a few are electric vehicles benefiting from cheap charging and low maintenance needs.
But they all share one thing in common: they’re engineered not just to get you from point A to B, but to do it for pennies on the dollar.
Whether you’re a rideshare driver logging thousands of miles a month, a budget-conscious commuter, or someone simply looking to reduce long-term financial stress, these cars are worth a closer look.
They may not be the most glamorous options in the market, but they shine in the area that often matters most—your wallet.
In the following sections, we’ll spotlight five vehicles that consistently land among the lowest cost-per-mile performers, based on comprehensive data from automotive ownership studies and cost tracking over five years.
These are the unsung heroes of economical motoring—vehicles that prove frugality doesn’t mean sacrifice, and saving money doesn’t have to come at the cost of comfort or capability.
1. Toyota Corolla Hybrid – A Masterclass in Affordability
When it comes to stretching every dollar, few vehicles can match the Toyota Corolla Hybrid. Combining Toyota’s rock-solid reliability with exceptional fuel economy, this compact sedan represents one of the lowest cost-per-mile vehicles on the market, averaging just $0.44 to $0.47 per mile over five years of ownership.
Fuel efficiency is where the Corolla Hybrid truly excels. Its EPA-estimated 53 mpg city and 52 mpg highway figures put it in elite territory—especially since it uses regular gasoline and doesn’t require a plug.
For daily commuters, that means fewer fuel stops and substantial long-term savings. Over 15,000 miles per year, that efficiency translates into hundreds of dollars in gas savings compared to traditional gas-only vehicles.
But it’s not just fuel. The Corolla Hybrid is also one of the most maintenance-friendly cars on the road.
Toyota’s hybrid system is known for durability, and routine maintenance is minimal—often just tire rotations, oil changes, and inspections. With ToyotaCare covering basic maintenance for the first two years, early costs are reduced even further.
Depreciation is another area where the Corolla Hybrid shines. It holds value well due to Toyota’s strong reputation and the growing popularity of hybrid models.
Insurance premiums are also relatively low thanks to excellent crash-test ratings, active safety features like Toyota Safety Sense, and its modest performance profile.
What truly seals its value is its accessibility. With a base MSRP starting around $24,000 and a long list of standard features—including Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, adaptive cruise control, and dual-zone climate control—it’s a lot of car for the money. You don’t have to pay extra for tech that makes daily driving smoother and more efficient.
In short, the Corolla Hybrid doesn’t just save you money—it does so without feeling like a compromise. It’s comfortable, quiet, reliable, and surprisingly well-equipped.
Whether you’re buying your first car, managing a tight budget, or simply trying to lower your overall cost of ownership, the Corolla Hybrid delivers one of the best per-mile values you can find.
2. Honda Civic – Small Car, Big Long-Term Savings
The Honda Civic has long held a reputation as one of the most well-rounded compact cars, but its real superpower lies in its exceptionally low cost per mile, typically averaging $0.46 to $0.50 over a five-year span.
It offers a winning combination of reliability, efficiency, and resale value that keeps ownership costs incredibly low.
Fuel economy is one of the Civic’s biggest strengths. Most trims deliver over 35 mpg combined, and some achieve close to 42 mpg on the highway, depending on the engine and configuration.
Whether you choose the naturally aspirated 2.0-liter engine or the efficient 1.5-liter turbocharged option, fuel costs remain modest—even as gas prices fluctuate.
But the real cost-saving magic of the Civic lies in its long-term dependability. With minimal major repair issues, low annual maintenance costs, and an extensive network of Honda service centers, keeping a Civic running smoothly is both easy and affordable.
It’s one of the few compact cars where drivers confidently hit 200,000+ miles with minimal fuss.
Insurance rates for the Civic are also typically below average, thanks to strong crash-test ratings and the inclusion of advanced driver-assistance features like forward collision warning, lane keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control—especially in newer models.
Depreciation is gentle, too. The Civic holds its value better than nearly all competitors in its class, thanks to high demand on the used market and its reputation for longevity. This results in a stronger resale or trade-in value, helping lower your total cost of ownership.
Starting at just over $23,000 for the base model, the Civic also gives you a high return on investment with standard tech like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a responsive infotainment interface. Materials feel more upscale than the price suggests, and ride quality is solid even on long drives.
The Honda Civic isn’t just a car—it’s a smart financial decision. It continues to be a favorite among students, commuters, and families alike, offering a surprisingly refined driving experience without draining your wallet at every mile.
If you’re looking for a no-nonsense car that treats your budget with respect, the Civic makes an excellent case.
3. Hyundai Elantra Hybrid – Budget Efficiency Without Sacrifice
The Hyundai Elantra Hybrid is a prime example of how far compact sedans have come—not just in styling and features, but in sheer cost-effectiveness.
With an estimated cost per mile ranging from $0.45 to $0.48, this car delivers the kind of long-term savings that budget-minded drivers dream of, without compromising on technology or comfort.
At the heart of its savings is its impressive fuel economy. The Elantra Hybrid returns up to 54 mpg highway and 50 mpg city, putting it in the same league as much more expensive hybrids.
For those logging high annual mileage, these figures equate to hundreds—if not thousands—of dollars saved at the pump over a typical ownership cycle.
But efficiency isn’t the only thing the Elantra Hybrid has going for it. Hyundai’s 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty is one of the best in the business and significantly reduces the fear of unexpected costs.
It also includes a 5-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and 3 years of complimentary maintenance, which covers oil changes and inspections—helping further trim your cost per mile.
Where this car surprises most is in its value-packed interior. Starting at around $26,000, the Elantra Hybrid includes a long list of features like wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (in base trims), dual-zone climate control, a digital instrument cluster, and advanced driver assistance systems.
In higher trims, you even get ventilated seats and a Bose audio system—all for well under $30K.
The Elantra Hybrid also benefits from slow depreciation, as hybrid vehicles continue to be in high demand and Hyundai’s quality perception improves year after year. Insurance costs remain reasonable as well, aided by its excellent safety scores and low repair frequency.
From a design perspective, it’s anything but boring. With sharp, angular styling and a surprisingly premium cabin feel, the Elantra Hybrid doesn’t look or drive like a typical budget car.
If your goal is to get as much value per mile as possible—without feeling like you’re driving an economy box—the Hyundai Elantra Hybrid is a top-tier contender. It’s smart, efficient, well-equipped, and backed by a warranty that provides true peace of mind.
4. Nissan Versa – Simplicity That Saves
The Nissan Versa may not be the flashiest car on the road, but when it comes to cost-effectiveness, it’s hard to beat. With an estimated cost per mile between $0.43 and $0.47, the Versa proves that basic doesn’t mean bad.
In fact, for many drivers—especially students, city dwellers, or those on tight budgets—it delivers exactly what’s needed at a price that’s hard to argue with.
The Versa’s strength starts with its extremely low starting MSRP, which hovers around $17,500 for the base trim. This makes it one of the most affordable new cars in America. But the savings don’t stop at the showroom.
It also returns up to 40 mpg on the highway and 32 mpg in the city, ensuring day-to-day gas expenses stay minimal, especially for commuters or delivery drivers racking up daily miles.
Insurance premiums are modest, too, thanks to the Versa’s low repair costs, small size, and standard suite of safety features like automatic emergency braking, rear automatic braking, and lane departure warning. These are features that help keep both drivers and insurance bills safe.
Maintenance is equally budget-friendly. The car uses a simple, proven powertrain—a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a CVT—that requires little more than regular oil changes and basic upkeep.
The reliability rating is solid, and parts are cheap and widely available. In fact, annual maintenance and repair costs for the Versa consistently rank among the lowest in the subcompact segment.
While the interior doesn’t rival luxury models, it’s functional and comfortable. Even base models include modern necessities like Bluetooth, a touchscreen display, and push-button start. Higher trims add Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for those who want more digital convenience.
Depreciation is moderate, but the Versa’s low purchase price helps offset resale losses. And because it’s one of the last remaining truly budget-friendly sedans, demand for used models remains surprisingly steady.
In a world where new car prices are climbing year after year, the Nissan Versa stands as a practical, dependable, and efficient choice for those who need reliable transportation at the lowest possible per-mile cost.
5. Chevrolet Bolt EV – Electrified Affordability
The Chevrolet Bolt EV is not just one of the most affordable electric vehicles on the market—it’s also one of the lowest cost-per-mile cars, period.
With an average cost per mile ranging from $0.40 to $0.45, the Bolt EV is a standout in value, especially for drivers ready to make the switch to all-electric motoring.
The biggest factor in its savings is the low cost of electricity compared to gasoline. Even in states with moderate utility rates, charging the Bolt costs a fraction of what you’d spend at the pump.
Combine that with a 259-mile EPA-rated range, and you get one of the most efficient vehicles on the road. Over the course of five years and 75,000 miles, the fuel savings alone can be in the thousands.
But that’s just the start. Because EVs have fewer moving parts, maintenance is incredibly light. There are no oil changes, no transmission fluid, and far fewer wear-and-tear items to worry about.
Brake wear is minimized thanks to regenerative braking, and even tires tend to last longer due to smoother torque delivery.
The Bolt’s purchase price, especially in its final 2023 and 2024 model years, was notably aggressive—often in the low $26,000 range before incentives.
Factoring in federal EV tax credits (if applicable), many buyers were able to drive home a Bolt for under $20K net. That’s an unmatched value in the electric space.
Insurance is reasonable, and Chevrolet’s 8-year/100,000-mile battery warranty helps remove long-term concerns. While early Bolts had battery recall issues, GM addressed these extensively, and newer models have benefitted from upgraded battery systems.
Inside, the Bolt feels more upscale than its price suggests. It offers a large infotainment screen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and ample interior space. Its hatchback design also provides surprising utility—more cargo room than many subcompact crossovers.
Depreciation for EVs is still a challenge, but the Bolt’s low upfront cost and minimal running expenses help balance out its resale performance. And with growing demand for used EVs, resale values are stabilizing.
If you’re looking for the cheapest way to drive electric, or simply one of the lowest total cost-of-ownership vehicles available, the Chevrolet Bolt EV is a smart, green, and wallet-friendly choice.
5 Vehicles With Highest Cost Per Mile
While some vehicles are engineered with cost-efficiency in mind, others seem built to burn through cash with every mile driven.
Whether it’s through poor fuel economy, excessive maintenance, rapid depreciation, or a combination of all three, certain cars are simply expensive to own—and not always in ways you can see on the sticker price alone.
This section focuses on the five vehicles with the highest cost per mile, where expenses climb quickly even if initial purchase prices might not suggest it.
Understanding cost per mile involves looking beyond just fuel economy. It includes insurance premiums, maintenance and repair costs, parts availability, depreciation rates, and sometimes luxury taxes or specialty tires and services.
In many cases, vehicles that are performance-focused, niche, or high-luxury tend to score poorly on long-term affordability.
High-end SUVs, exotic sports cars, or outdated models with legacy tech can surprise buyers with how fast they accumulate costs after leaving the dealership.
We’re highlighting these five vehicles not to discourage buyers, but to provide a transparent view of what ownership truly looks like over time.
These models might have undeniable appeal—impressive speed, standout design, or luxurious features—but that appeal often comes with a steep financial trade-off.
Knowing these details helps consumers make informed decisions and prepare for the true cost of keeping their dream car on the road.
So if you’re considering one of these high-cost rides, it’s essential to ask yourself: is the driving experience worth the long-term expense? For some enthusiasts, the answer is a resounding yes.
But for others, these vehicles might be best admired from afar. Here are five models that, mile for mile, are among the most expensive to own—and why that matters when you’re calculating your real-world driving budget.
1. Mercedes-Benz G-Class (G-Wagon) – Luxury That Demands a Hefty Toll
Few vehicles embody status quite like the Mercedes-Benz G-Class, commonly known as the G-Wagon. With its boxy silhouette, military-inspired roots, and celebrity appeal, it’s an unmistakable icon of luxury.
But behind its glamorous exterior lies a cost per mile that often exceeds $1.00, making it one of the most expensive vehicles to own over a five-year period.
The expenses start with the eye-watering base price, which hovers around $140,000 for the G550 and climbs much higher for the AMG G63 variant. That alone sets the tone for every financial aspect of ownership—from insurance to maintenance and repairs.
Fuel economy is poor, even by luxury SUV standards. The G550 returns only 13 mpg city and 16 mpg highway, and the AMG version does worse.
Given its heavy curb weight and V8-powered engine, this vehicle guzzles premium fuel at an alarming rate. Over time, fuel costs alone can account for tens of thousands in additional spending.
Maintenance and repair costs are equally daunting. Parts and labor for the G-Class are priced at a premium. Even routine services like oil changes or brake replacements are significantly more expensive than those for other SUVs.
And because the G-Wagon’s design hasn’t changed drastically over the years, some older systems remain mechanically complex, driving up service costs.
Insurance is high due to the vehicle’s value, performance capabilities, and repair expenses. And while the G-Class holds its value fairly well in the short term, depreciation still bites—especially when you cross the 5-year mark or rack up mileage, which can quickly erode resale value.
Despite all this, buyers continue to flock to the G-Wagon for its bold personality, luxurious appointments, and unmatched street presence.
It delivers an incredibly comfortable ride and a high seating position that makes every drive feel commanding. But from a purely financial perspective, the G-Class is an extravagant proposition.
If you’re looking for luxury that respects your wallet, the G-Wagon won’t be it. But if you’re buying with passion and prestige in mind—and can afford the cost—it remains a show-stopper that turns heads with every mile, even if each of those miles comes at a premium.
2. Ford F-150 Raptor – Power That Comes at a Price
The Ford F-150 Raptor is a powerhouse pickup with serious off-road chops, aggressive styling, and undeniable street cred. But when it comes to affordability, the Raptor has a bite to match its bark.
With an estimated cost per mile of around $0.90 to $1.00, it’s one of the most expensive full-size trucks to own—even before you start modding it for serious off-road fun.
The high cost begins with its starting MSRP of over $78,000, and that’s before any optional packages, which many buyers eagerly opt for. Add in luxury interior features, upgraded audio, and performance enhancements, and it’s easy to cross the $90,000 threshold quickly.
Fuel economy is a major cost driver. The Raptor’s twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 may deliver outstanding performance, but it’s thirsty—averaging just 15 mpg city and 18 mpg highway. That translates into high fuel expenses over time, especially for those using the Raptor as a daily driver.
Maintenance and repair costs are also above average. While the base F-150 is relatively cheap to maintain, the Raptor’s specialized suspension system, wider stance, and off-road hardware result in higher parts and labor costs.
Replacing items like tires (which wear faster due to aggressive tread) and shocks is significantly pricier than in a standard F-150.
Insurance for the Raptor is another cost category that stings. The combination of high value, off-road capabilities, and strong performance metrics place it in a higher risk category, which insurance providers pass on to the owner.
Additionally, depreciation can be steep. While the Raptor holds value better than some performance vehicles, it still loses a considerable chunk in the first 3–5 years.
The Raptor is an absolute blast to drive. It’s unmatched when it comes to high-speed desert runs, trail pounding, or simply making a statement on the road. But those experiences come with substantial long-term costs.
For the buyer who’s all about performance and presence, the Raptor may be worth every penny. But from a strict financial perspective, it’s a high-cost-per-mile machine that’s better suited to enthusiasts than practical-minded shoppers.
3. BMW 7 Series – Executive Luxury With Expensive Strings Attached
The BMW 7 Series is a symbol of executive luxury, blending cutting-edge technology with premium comfort and performance.
However, that level of refinement comes with a heavy financial footprint. With a cost per mile often exceeding $0.95, the 7 Series is one of the most expensive sedans to own and maintain over a five-year period.
The high entry point begins with its starting MSRP around $96,000, and easily soars past $115,000 for higher trims or hybrid models.
Owners may justify the price with features like massaging seats, advanced semi-autonomous driving systems, and a cabin worthy of a first-class airline lounge. But those comforts start generating costs the moment the odometer ticks up.
Fuel economy is average at best, especially for such a large vehicle. Even the plug-in hybrid variants, while slightly more efficient, tend to rely heavily on their gasoline engines for long drives. Most models hover around 20–24 mpg combined, and all require premium fuel, adding to daily operating costs.
Where the 7 Series really inflates your cost per mile is in maintenance and repairs. As with most high-end German cars, BMW’s flagship sedan carries complex systems that are expensive to diagnose, service, and fix.
Items like air suspension, active steering, and extensive infotainment systems can fail outside warranty and lead to four-figure repair bills. Even simple parts like brakes or battery replacements can cost double or triple that of a mainstream sedan.
Insurance is steep as well, due to its high sticker price, elevated repair costs, and status as a luxury model. Depreciation hits hard—especially in the first three years—since luxury sedans often flood the used market as lease returns, reducing resale demand.
In return, the 7 Series delivers a serene, powerful, and ultra-premium driving experience that rivals some private jets in comfort. It’s the go-to choice for CEOs and diplomats—but not necessarily for anyone watching their cost-per-mile budget.
Unless you have a dedicated fund for maintenance and depreciation, owning a 7 Series is more about the experience of driving excellence than about economic sense. It’s prestigious, indulgent, and expensive—mile after mile.
4. Land Rover Range Rover – The Price of Prestige and Complexity
Few names carry the same level of prestige in the SUV world as the Land Rover Range Rover. Synonymous with wealth, adventure, and refinement, this British luxury SUV has long been favored by the elite.
But behind the polished veneer lies a vehicle notorious for its high cost per mile—often around $1.00 or more, depending on how it’s driven and maintained.
The starting MSRP for a new Range Rover easily clears $100,000, and most buyers select trims or packages that push that number closer to $125,000–$140,000. That upfront cost is only the beginning.
While it offers an exceptionally quiet ride, high-end finishes, and off-road prowess unmatched in its class, the cost of keeping one on the road is daunting.
Fuel economy is poor. Despite mild-hybrid systems or available plug-in versions, the average mpg still hovers around 18 combined, and many models require premium fuel.
Given its weight and performance capabilities, frequent refueling becomes an unavoidable expense for most owners.
But the real cost beast lies in maintenance and reliability issues. The Range Rover is known for complex mechanical and electronic systems—air suspension, advanced terrain management modes, luxury electronics, and driver assist tech—all of which can be prone to failure.
Repairs are not only frequent but also expensive. Many owners report major issues as early as 40,000 miles, often with multi-thousand-dollar repair bills.
Insurance premiums are sky-high, reflecting both the cost of parts and the Range Rover’s theft risk. And when it comes to depreciation, the Range Rover suffers greatly.
A five-year-old model often loses over 60% of its original value, pushing resale down and cost-per-mile up.
Despite these factors, the Range Rover remains a style icon. Its road presence, elegant design, and capability continue to draw luxury buyers.
For those with deep pockets, the price might feel justified. But for budget-conscious shoppers, this SUV can quietly drain resources mile after mile.
The Range Rover delivers a regal experience—but it’s one of the most expensive thrones on wheels you can buy, and each mile is a royal expense.
5. Chevrolet Suburban High Country – Size, Power, and a Growing Bill
The Chevrolet Suburban High Country stands tall as one of the largest and most versatile full-size SUVs on the market. It’s built for families who need serious space, towing muscle, and a commanding road presence.
But when you crunch the numbers, the High Country trim version of the Suburban emerges as one of the most expensive mainstream vehicles to own, with a cost per mile that can approach $0.95 to $1.05, especially when fully loaded.
At a glance, the High Country is impressive. Priced around $80,000 to $90,000, it brings V8 power, premium materials, rear-seat entertainment systems, magnetic ride control, and advanced towing tech.
It offers cavernous cargo space and three rows of comfort. But those perks come with significant costs in the long run.
Fuel economy is a major weakness. The 6.2-liter V8 engine delivers just 14 mpg city and 18 mpg highway, and drivers often see lower real-world results, especially when hauling passengers or trailers. Over five years, fuel costs alone can exceed $20,000—especially with fluctuating gas prices.
Then there’s maintenance. While Chevy’s reliability record is better than some luxury brands, the Suburban’s size and complexity increase service costs.
Brake jobs, tire replacements (due to the large wheels), and suspension work are significantly more expensive than those for a typical sedan or small SUV. Over time, these add up quickly.
Depreciation is another factor. While Suburbans retain value better than some luxury SUVs, the High Country trim depreciates faster due to its initial high price tag and fewer buyers in the used market willing to pay a premium for upscale features over standard trims.
Insurance is also higher than average, given its large dimensions and expensive components. And despite its practical nature, the Suburban High Country is not a frugal family hauler. It’s a power-luxury combination that demands ongoing financial attention.
For buyers who prioritize size, presence, and comfort above all else—and have the wallet to support it—the Suburban High Country is a solid choice.
But for those looking to minimize long-term ownership costs, it’s worth understanding that every mile in this mammoth SUV is a pricey one.
When it comes to vehicle ownership, cost per mile is one of the clearest reflections of a car’s long-term value.
While many shoppers focus on sticker price or monthly payments, what truly affects your wallet over time is how much each mile costs you—factoring in fuel, maintenance, insurance, depreciation, and repairs.
Our comparison between the five lowest and five highest cost-per-mile vehicles reveals just how wide that gap can be.
On the affordable end, vehicles like the Toyota Prius, Hyundai Elantra Hybrid, and Honda Insight prove that efficient engineering and strong reliability records can translate into real savings.
These models cost as little as $0.35–$0.45 per mile, making them ideal for commuters, rideshare drivers, or anyone seeking long-term value. With fuel efficiency, low maintenance requirements, and relatively strong resale values, they make ownership painless and practical.
In contrast, vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz G-Class, Land Rover Range Rover, and BMW 7 Series showcase the high price of luxury, performance, and prestige.
These vehicles often cross the $1.00-per-mile threshold, driven by premium fuel needs, complex maintenance, high depreciation, and expensive insurance.
While they deliver exceptional experiences in comfort, power, and road presence, they are financial commitments that require deep pockets beyond the showroom floor.
What this contrast teaches us is that cost per mile isn’t just a statistic—it’s a window into how your lifestyle aligns with your budget.
Choosing a car should always consider how you’ll use it, what level of comfort or image you expect, and whether the long-term costs justify the benefits you’ll gain.
In the end, there’s no wrong choice—just different priorities. For some, peace of mind comes from knowing each mile is low-cost and sustainable.
For others, it’s the satisfaction of enjoying top-tier luxury or rugged dominance, even at a premium. What matters most is knowing what you’re paying for—mile by mile.
Also Read: 5 Cars With Remote Kill Features and 5 That Keep Running After Theft
