While hybrid and electric vehicles continue to dominate the conversation when it comes to fuel efficiency, gas-only cars still hold a significant place in the market. Hybrid and plug-in hybrid models are often seen as the best options for saving fuel, but their higher price tags can make them inaccessible to some buyers. With advancements in internal combustion engine technology, automakers have been able to produce more fuel-efficient gas-powered vehicles, making them a compelling choice for those who don’t want to make the jump to an electrified vehicle yet.
In the past two decades, turbocharged four-cylinder engines, efficiency-focused transmissions, and stop/start technology have become commonplace in many models. Even three-cylinder engines, which were once rare, are now found under the hoods of some highly efficient cars. While the number of traditional gas-powered cars on the market has been declining with the rise of EVs and hybrids, there are still plenty of new, affordable vehicles that make fuel economy a top priority.
For buyers who want to maximize their miles per gallon without going hybrid or electric, there are numerous excellent options available. The following list highlights some of the best gas-only cars for 2024, ranked by their EPA combined fuel economy ratings. These cars prove that a gas-only engine can still offer impressive fuel savings, making them a strong contender for many drivers.
1. 2024 Honda Accord: A Spacious and Efficient Sedan
The 2024 Honda Accord continues to impress with its blend of practicality and efficiency. Powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine producing 192 horsepower, the Accord offers a respectable 33 mpg combined. It achieves 29 mpg in the city and an impressive 37 mpg on the highway, making it a top contender in the midsize sedan segment. The Accord’s fuel efficiency is especially notable for a car with such a spacious interior and a premium feel.
Inside, the 2024 Accord boasts a roomy and upscale cabin, offering a high level of comfort for both front and rear passengers. While the exterior design might not be the most striking, the interior more than makes up for it with modern tech features and a spacious layout. The base model includes a 7-inch display, while the top trims offer larger screens and advanced features like wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The Accord’s pros include its sophisticated styling, roomy interior, and the availability of a highly efficient hybrid model for those seeking even better fuel economy. However, the base model’s small center screen and the discontinuation of the more powerful 2.0-liter turbo-four engine are drawbacks for some buyers. Despite these minor issues, the Accord remains an excellent option for those looking for a blend of comfort and efficiency.
2. 2024 Toyota Camry: Fuel-Efficient and Reliable
The 2024 Toyota Camry continues to be one of the best midsize sedans, offering an impressive balance of performance and fuel efficiency. The base model features a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 203 horsepower, achieving 28 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway for a combined 33 mpg. This makes it an ideal choice for buyers who want both strong fuel economy and ample power for daily driving.
The Camry is known for its spacious interior, providing plenty of room for passengers and cargo. The 2024 model is also equipped with a suite of modern tech features, including an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Toyota’s Safety Sense suite of driver assistance features. The Camry’s quiet and comfortable ride further enhances its appeal, making it a standout in its segment.
Key pros of the 2024 Camry include its sophisticated styling, spacious interior, and excellent highway fuel efficiency. However, its smaller center screen in lower trims and the loss of the 2.0-liter turbo-four engine may be seen as drawbacks. Despite these changes, the Camry remains a strong competitor, offering a dependable and fuel-efficient option in the midsize sedan category.
3. 2024 Audi A3: A Luxury Subcompact Sedan
The 2024 Audi A3 is a top choice for those seeking a compact luxury sedan with strong fuel efficiency. Its 2.0-liter turbocharged engine delivers 201 horsepower, providing both smooth power delivery and impressive efficiency. The front-drive A3 achieves a combined 33 mpg, with 28 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway, making it one of the most efficient luxury subcompact cars available.
Inside, the A3 offers a premium experience, with high-quality materials and modern technology. While the cabin may feel small compared to larger sedans, the A3 offers a sleek, stylish design with a user-friendly infotainment system. It also includes standard features like a 10.1-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, along with an array of safety features such as automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist.
The A3’s main advantages include its excellent fuel economy, smooth performance, and affordable entry point into the Audi lineup. However, its small trunk, noisy cabin at high speeds, and lack of many standard driver assistance features on base trims may be drawbacks. Despite these issues, the A3 remains a solid choice for buyers looking for a luxury vehicle with strong efficiency.
4. 2024 Nissan Sentra: Affordable and Efficient
The 2024 Nissan Sentra is a practical compact sedan that offers excellent fuel efficiency. Powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 149 horsepower, the Sentra achieves a combined 35 mpg, with 30 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway. This makes it one of the most fuel-efficient cars in its class, ideal for drivers looking to save on gas without sacrificing too much power.
The Sentra stands out with its stylish exterior and well-equipped interior, offering a range of tech features at a competitive price point. The standard Sentra S model includes a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, while higher trims offer more advanced features such as a larger touchscreen, a premium audio system, and additional safety technologies like adaptive cruise control.
The Sentra offers strong value with its combination of stylish design, good fuel efficiency, and an excellent feature set. However, its sluggish acceleration and lack of all-wheel drive or hybrid options may limit its appeal for some buyers. Still, for those seeking an affordable, efficient sedan, the Sentra is a compelling option.
5. 2024 Toyota Corolla: A Fuel-Efficient Classic
The 2024 Toyota Corolla continues to be a top choice for fuel-conscious buyers. With a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine delivering 169 horsepower, the Corolla achieves a combined 36 mpg, with 32 mpg in the city and 41 mpg on the highway. This impressive efficiency makes the Corolla one of the best options for those prioritizing fuel economy without stepping into a hybrid.
The Corolla is available in both sedan and hatchback body styles, offering versatility for different needs. The base model comes well-equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Toyota’s Safety Sense suite. Higher trims add features like a larger touchscreen, premium audio, and more advanced safety technologies, ensuring a well-rounded package for all buyers.
The Corolla’s primary strengths include its excellent fuel economy, variety of body styles, and strong value proposition. However, its interior may feel basic, and it lacks the refinement found in some of its competitors. Despite these shortcomings, the Corolla remains a practical, affordable choice for anyone looking for a reliable and fuel-efficient vehicle.
6. 2024 Nissan Versa: Fuel Efficiency on a Budget
The 2024 Nissan Versa may not boast high performance, but it compensates with stellar fuel efficiency. Its 1.6-liter naturally aspirated engine delivers 122 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque, adequate for everyday commutes. With a combined EPA rating of 36 mpg, it achieves 40 mpg on the highway, making it one of the most economical gas-only sedans available.
The Versa’s strengths lie in its affordability, with a starting MSRP of $16,130, and practicality, offering a surprisingly spacious trunk compared to competitors. However, its modest power output results in lackluster acceleration, and cabin noise can become a concern at highway speeds. Additionally, Apple CarPlay is not a standard feature, which might deter tech-savvy buyers.
The 2024 Nissan Versa is a great option for buyers prioritizing cost savings, both upfront and in long-term fuel expenses. While its performance and features may not impress enthusiasts, the combination of affordability, efficiency, and practicality makes it a sensible choice for budget-conscious consumers.
7. 2024 Volkswagen Jetta: A Balance of Efficiency and Sophistication
The 2024 Volkswagen Jetta pairs a robust 1.5-liter turbocharged engine with exceptional fuel economy. Producing 158 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, it offers a more dynamic driving experience than many competitors. With an EPA rating of 36 mpg combined, including 41 mpg on the highway, it excels in fuel efficiency for a German-badged model.
The Jetta’s pros include advanced tech in higher trims, an available manual transmission for enthusiasts, and the refined GLI variant. However, drawbacks include a cheap-feeling interior, less responsive steering, and a stiff ride that may deter those seeking comfort.
Priced at $22,235, the Jetta blends economy with a touch of sophistication. While it may not lead the segment in luxury or comfort, its efficiency, tech features, and spirited performance make it a strong contender in the compact sedan market.
8. 2024 Hyundai Elantra: Spacious and Versatile
The 2024 Hyundai Elantra offers a compelling mix of practicality and efficiency. Equipped with a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine, it delivers 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque, achieving a remarkable 37 mpg combined. With EPA ratings of 33 mpg city and 42 mpg highway, the Elantra balances performance and fuel savings.
The Elantra stands out for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and value-packed trims. Enthusiasts might enjoy the Elantra N variant, though it sacrifices fuel efficiency. Drawbacks include some cheap interior materials, limited wireless CarPlay on higher trims, and less engaging handling compared to rivals like the Honda Civic.
At a base price of $21,475, the Elantra offers significant value. Its excellent fuel economy and practical design cater to families and individuals seeking a reliable, economical compact sedan.
9. 2024 Honda Civic: The Compact Sedan Leader
The 2024 Honda Civic continues its reign as the top-rated compact sedan. Its uplevel 1.5-liter turbocharged engine delivers 180 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque while achieving 37 mpg combined. With EPA ratings of 33 mpg city and 42 mpg highway, the Civic seamlessly blends performance and efficiency.
The Civic excels in athletic handling, mature styling, and comprehensive safety features. However, its cabin can get noisy, and while its acceleration is adequate, it doesn’t stand out as particularly quick. Additionally, some premium features are restricted to higher trims, increasing costs.
Starting at $23,950, the Honda Civic offers a balance of refinement, performance, and efficiency. It appeals to drivers who value engaging dynamics and modern amenities without compromising fuel savings.
10. 2024 Mitsubishi Mirage: The Efficiency Champion
The 2024 Mitsubishi Mirage leads in fuel efficiency among gas-powered cars, with a combined EPA rating of 39 mpg, including 43 mpg highway. Powered by a modest 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine producing 78 horsepower and 74 lb-ft of torque, the Mirage prioritizes economy over performance.
Its affordability, starting at $16,695, and free maintenance for two years are major advantages. However, the Mirage’s tiny size, lackluster driving dynamics, and outdated design put it at a disadvantage compared to rivals offering more refinement and capability.
For buyers seeking the lowest fuel costs and upfront expenses, the Mirage delivers unmatched value. Despite its limitations, its status as the most economical gas-powered vehicle makes it an appealing option for budget-conscious drivers prioritizing efficiency above all else.