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The Top 25 Most Economical Used Cars to Buy in 2024
Build Wealth Yourself
July 19, 2024
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Dear Drivers,
When buying a used car, economy is a top priority for many buyers. Whether it's about fuel efficiency, maintenance costs, or overall reliability, an economical vehicle can save money over time. Here’s a comprehensive list of the top 25 most economical used cars to buy in 2024. Each car on this list has been chosen for its balance of features, reliability, low maintenance costs, and fuel efficiency.
1. Toyota Prius
Why Buy: The Toyota Prius is a hybrid legend known for its incredible fuel efficiency and reliability. It's an excellent choice for anyone looking to save on gas and maintenance.
Features:
Hybrid Synergy Drive system
Spacious interior with hatchback versatility
Advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist
Reliability:
Consistently ranked as one of the most reliable cars
High resale value
Maintenance Costs:
Low due to the robust hybrid system and durable components
Look and Quality:
Modern, aerodynamic design
High-quality interior materials
Cost:
Used Price Range: $10,000 - $25,000
Fuel Efficiency: 50-58 mpg combined
Gas Type: Regular unleaded
Tax and Registration: Low, due to eco-friendly status
2. Honda Civic
Why Buy: The Honda Civic is a compact car with a reputation for reliability and fuel efficiency, it's perfect for daily commuting and long-term ownership.
Features:
Advanced infotainment system
Spacious cabin for a compact car
Various body styles available (sedan, coupe, hatchback)
Reliability:
Known for its long lifespan
High owner satisfaction ratings
Maintenance Costs:
Affordable and widely available parts
Look and Quality:
Sleek, sporty design
High-quality interior with durable materials
Cost:
Used Price Range: $8,000 - $20,000
Fuel Efficiency: 30-36 mpg combined
Gas Type: Regular unleaded
Tax and Registration: Moderate, depending on the state
3. Mazda3
Why Buy: The Mazda3 offers a perfect blend of sporty performance and fuel efficiency. It's an excellent choice for those who want an economical yet fun-to-drive car.
Features:
Stylish, driver-focused interior
Available with advanced safety features
Sporty handling and performance
Reliability:
Generally high-reliability ratings
Good track record for longevity
Maintenance Costs:
Reasonable, with accessible parts
Look and Quality:
Sharp, athletic design
High-quality interior with premium touches
Cost:
Used Price Range: $7,000 - $18,000
Fuel Efficiency: 28-35 mpg combined
Gas Type: Regular unleaded
Tax and Registration: Moderate
4. Toyota Corolla
Why Buy: The Toyota Corolla is a compact car known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and low operating costs, it's an ideal choice for budget-conscious buyers.
Features:
Comfortable and spacious interior
User-friendly infotainment system
Standard advanced safety features
Reliability:
Consistently high-reliability ratings
Long-lasting performance
Maintenance Costs:
Low, thanks to widely available and affordable parts
Look and Quality:
Conservative yet attractive design
High-quality materials and build
Cost:
Used Price Range: $8,000 - $18,000
Fuel Efficiency: 30-36 mpg combined
Gas Type: Regular unleaded
Tax and Registration: Low to moderate
5. Ford Fusion Hybrid
Why Buy: The Ford Fusion Hybrid offers a spacious interior, a comfortable ride, and impressive fuel efficiency. It's perfect for families and long commutes.
Features:
Hybrid powertrain for excellent fuel economy
Roomy and comfortable interior
Advanced infotainment and safety features
Reliability:
Good reliability ratings
Durable components
Maintenance Costs:
Moderate, with hybrid-specific parts potentially higher
Look and Quality:
Stylish, modern design
High-quality interior materials
Cost:
Used Price Range: $12,000 - $20,000
Fuel Efficiency: 42-45 mpg combined
Gas Type: Regular unleaded
Tax and Registration: Moderate
6. Hyundai Elantra
Why Buy: The Hyundai Elantra is a compact car with a low price tag, good fuel economy, and an outstanding warranty, it’s an excellent value proposition.
Features:
Modern infotainment system
Comfortable and well-equipped interior
Available advanced safety features
Reliability:
High-reliability ratings
Long warranty coverage for peace of mind
Maintenance Costs:
Low, with affordable parts and labor
Look and Quality:
Stylish, contemporary design
Quality interior with durable materials
Cost:
Used Price Range: $7,000 - $17,000
Fuel Efficiency: 29-36 mpg combined
Gas Type: Regular unleaded
Tax and Registration: Low to moderate
7. Kia Forte
Why Buy: The Kia Forte is known for its value. It has a long list of standard features, good fuel economy, and a robust warranty.
Features:
User-friendly infotainment system
Spacious and comfortable interior
Standard advanced safety features
Reliability:
High-reliability ratings
Excellent warranty coverage
Maintenance Costs:
Low, with affordable parts and labor
Look and Quality:
Attractive, modern design
High-quality interior materials
Cost:
Used Price Range: $7,000 - $17,000
Fuel Efficiency: 30-35 mpg combined
Gas Type: Regular unleaded
Tax and Registration: Low to moderate
8. Chevrolet Bolt EV
Why Buy: The Chevrolet Bolt EV is an all-electric vehicle with excellent range, low operating costs, and a spacious interior.
Features:
Impressive all-electric range
Spacious and well-designed interior
Advanced infotainment and connectivity features
Reliability:
Good reliability ratings
Low maintenance requirements due to fewer moving parts
Maintenance Costs:
Very low, with minimal regular maintenance
Look and Quality:
Modern, futuristic design
High-quality interior with ample space
Cost:
Used Price Range: $15,000 - $25,000
Fuel Efficiency: Equivalent to 118 MPGe
Gas Type: Electric
Tax and Registration: Low to moderate, with potential EV incentives
9. Nissan Leaf
Why Buy: The Nissan Leaf is one of the best-selling electric cars globally, known for its reliability, affordability, and decent range.
Features:
Decent all-electric range
Comfortable and practical interior
Advanced driver-assistance features
Reliability:
High-reliability ratings
Low maintenance requirements
Maintenance Costs:
Very low, with minimal regular maintenance
Look and Quality:
Modern, aerodynamic design
High-quality interior materials
Cost:
Used Price Range: $10,000 - $20,000
Fuel Efficiency: Equivalent to 112 MPGe
Gas Type: Electric
Tax and Registration: Low to moderate, with potential EV incentives
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10. Toyota Camry Hybrid
Why Buy: The Toyota Camry Hybrid offers comfort, reliability, and fuel efficiency. It’s excellent for those seeking a comfortable and efficient midsize sedan.
Features:
Hybrid powertrain for excellent fuel economy
Spacious and comfortable interior
Advanced safety and infotainment features
Reliability:
Consistently high-reliability ratings
Durable and long-lasting components
Maintenance Costs:
Low, with affordable parts and labor
Look and Quality:
Elegant, timeless design
High-quality interior with premium materials
Cost:
Used Price Range: $12,000 - $25,000
Fuel Efficiency: 44-53 mpg combined
Gas Type: Regular unleaded
Tax and Registration: Moderate
11. Ford Fiesta
Why Buy: The Ford Fiesta is a subcompact car known for its agility, fuel efficiency, and fun-to-drive nature, it's an excellent choice for city driving.
Features:
User-friendly infotainment system
Comfortable and well-equipped interior
Sporty handling
Reliability:
Generally reliable with a solid track record
Good owner satisfaction ratings
Maintenance Costs:
Low, with affordable parts and labor
Look and Quality:
Stylish, sporty design
High-quality interior for its class
Cost:
Used Price Range: $5,000 - $12,000
Fuel Efficiency: 27-37 mpg combined
Gas Type: Regular unleaded
Tax and Registration: Low to moderate
12. Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid
Why Buy: The Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid offers excellent fuel efficiency, a modern design, and a high level of standard features, making it a great value.
Features:
Hybrid powertrain for exceptional fuel economy
Spacious and comfortable interior
Advanced safety and technology features
Reliability:
High-reliability ratings
Long warranty coverage
Maintenance Costs:
Low, with affordable parts and labor
Look and Quality:
Modern, sleek design
High-quality interior materials
Cost:
Used Price Range: $10,000 - $20,000
Fuel Efficiency: 55-59 mpg combined
Gas Type: Regular unleaded
Tax and Registration: Low
13. Chevrolet Cruze
Why Buy: The Chevrolet Cruze is a compact car with good fuel economy, a comfortable ride, and a spacious interior. It's a solid choice for budget-conscious buyers.
Features:
User-friendly infotainment system
Comfortable and well-equipped interior
Advanced safety features
Reliability:
Good reliability ratings
Affordable to maintain
Maintenance Costs:
Low, with accessible parts
Look and Quality:
Conservative yet modern design
Quality interior with durable materials
Cost:
Used Price Range: $8,000 - $18,000
Fuel Efficiency: 28-37 mpg combined
Gas Type: Regular unleaded
Tax and Registration: Moderate
14. Honda Accord
Why Buy: The Honda Accord is a midsize sedan known for its spacious interior, high reliability, and excellent resale value. It's an ideal choice for families.
Features:
Spacious and comfortable interior
Advanced safety and infotainment features
Available hybrid variant
Reliability:
Consistently high-reliability ratings
Long-lasting performance
Maintenance Costs:
Low, with affordable parts and labor
Look and Quality:
Elegant, modern design
High-quality interior with premium materials
Cost:
Used Price Range: $10,000 - $25,000
Fuel Efficiency: 30-38 mpg combined
Gas Type: Regular unleaded
Tax and Registration: Moderate
15. Volkswagen Golf
Why Buy: The Volkswagen Golf is a compact car known for its solid build quality, practicality, and engaging driving dynamics. It's a great all-around vehicle.
Features:
User-friendly infotainment system
Spacious and well-designed interior
Advanced safety features
Reliability:
Generally reliable with a solid track record
Good owner satisfaction ratings
Maintenance Costs:
Moderate, with affordable parts and labor
Look and Quality:
Classic, timeless design
High-quality interior with premium materials
Cost:
Used Price Range: $7,000 - $20,000
Fuel Efficiency: 28-37 mpg combined
Gas Type: Regular unleaded
Tax and Registration: Moderate
16. Mazda CX-5
Why Buy: The Mazda CX-5 is a compact SUV known for its stylish design, engaging driving dynamics, and high-quality interior. It's perfect for those who need more space without sacrificing performance.
Features:
Advanced infotainment system
Spacious and comfortable interior
Available advanced safety features
Reliability:
High-reliability ratings
Good owner satisfaction
Maintenance Costs:
Low, with accessible parts
Look and Quality:
Sharp, modern design
High-quality interior with premium materials
Cost:
Used Price Range: $15,000 - $30,000
Fuel Efficiency: 24-31 mpg combined
Gas Type: Regular unleaded
Tax and Registration: Moderate
17. Kia Soul
Why Buy: The Kia Soul is a subcompact crossover known for its unique design, spacious interior, and value for money, it's an excellent choice for those who want something different.
Features:
User-friendly infotainment system
Spacious and versatile interior
Advanced safety features
Reliability:
High-reliability ratings
Excellent warranty coverage
Maintenance Costs:
Low, with affordable parts and labor
Look and Quality:
Funky, distinctive design
High-quality interior materials
Cost:
Used Price Range: $10,000 - $20,000
Fuel Efficiency: 27-33 mpg combined
Gas Type: Regular unleaded
Tax and Registration: Low to moderate
18. Nissan Sentra
Why Buy: The Nissan Sentra is a compact car with good fuel economy, a comfortable ride, and a high level of standard features, it's a solid choice for budget-conscious buyers.
Features:
User-friendly infotainment system
Comfortable and well-equipped interior
Advanced safety features
Reliability:
Good reliability ratings
Affordable to maintain
Maintenance Costs:
Low, with accessible parts
Look and Quality:
Conservative yet modern design
Quality interior with durable materials
Cost:
Used Price Range: $7,000 - $17,000
Fuel Efficiency: 29-37 mpg combined
Gas Type: Regular unleaded
Tax and Registration: Moderate
19. Toyota Yaris
Why Buy: The Toyota Yaris is a subcompact car known for its excellent fuel efficiency, reliability, and low operating costs, it's perfect for city driving and tight budgets.
Features:
User-friendly infotainment system
Comfortable and practical interior
Advanced safety features
Reliability:
High reliability ratings
Long-lasting performance
Maintenance Costs:
Very low, with affordable parts and labor
Look and Quality:
Modern, compact design
Quality interior for its class
Cost:
Used Price Range: $5,000 - $15,000
Fuel Efficiency: 30-40 mpg combined
Gas Type: Regular unleaded
Tax and Registration: Low
20. Hyundai Sonata
Why Buy: The Hyundai Sonata is a midsize sedan with a spacious interior, high reliability, and a long list of standard features, it's an excellent choice for families.
Features:
Spacious and comfortable interior
Advanced safety and infotainment features
Available hybrid variant
Reliability:
High-reliability ratings
Excellent warranty coverage
Maintenance Costs:
Low, with affordable parts and labor
Look and Quality:
Elegant, modern design
High-quality interior with premium materials
Cost:
Used Price Range: $10,000 - $25,000
Fuel Efficiency: 28-38 mpg combined
Gas Type: Regular unleaded
Tax and Registration: Moderate
21. Toyota Avalon
Why Buy: The Toyota Avalon is a full-size sedan known for its luxurious interior, high reliability, and smooth ride. It's perfect for those who want a comfortable and spacious car.
Features:
Luxurious and spacious interior
Advanced safety and infotainment features
Smooth and comfortable ride
Reliability:
Consistently high-reliability ratings
Long-lasting performance
Maintenance Costs:
Low, with affordable parts and labor
Look and Quality:
Elegant, timeless design
High-quality interior with premium materials
Cost:
Used Price Range: $15,000 - $35,000
Fuel Efficiency: 22-32 mpg combined
Gas Type: Regular unleaded
Tax and Registration: Moderate
22. Ford Escape Hybrid
Why Buy: The Ford Escape Hybrid offers a spacious interior, excellent fuel economy, and a comfortable ride. It's a great choice for families who want an eco-friendly SUV.
Features:
Hybrid powertrain for excellent fuel economy
Spacious and comfortable interior
Advanced safety and infotainment features
Reliability:
High-reliability ratings
Durable components
Maintenance Costs:
Moderate, with hybrid-specific parts potentially higher
Look and Quality:
Modern, stylish design
High-quality interior materials
Cost:
Used Price Range: $12,000 - $25,000
Fuel Efficiency: 40-44 mpg combined
Gas Type: Regular unleaded
Tax and Registration: Moderate
23. Honda Fit
Why Buy: The Honda Fit is a subcompact car known for its versatility, fuel efficiency, and reliability. It's perfect for city driving and tight budgets.
Features:
User-friendly infotainment system
Spacious and versatile interior
Advanced safety features
Reliability:
High-reliability ratings
Long-lasting performance
Maintenance Costs:
Very low, with affordable parts and labor
Look and Quality:
Modern, compact design
Quality interior for its class
Cost:
Used Price Range: $7,000 - $17,000
Fuel Efficiency: 31-36 mpg combined
Gas Type: Regular unleaded
Tax and Registration: Low
24. Chevrolet Volt
Why Buy: The Chevrolet Volt is a plug-in hybrid with excellent fuel economy, a comfortable ride, and a spacious interior. It's an excellent choice for those who want the benefits of both electric and gasoline power.
Features:
Plug-in hybrid powertrain for excellent fuel economy
Spacious and well-designed interior
Advanced infotainment and connectivity features
Reliability:
Good reliability ratings
Low maintenance requirements
Maintenance Costs:
Very low, with minimal regular maintenance
Look and Quality:
Modern, aerodynamic design
High-quality interior materials
Cost:
Used Price Range: $12,000 - $25,000
Fuel Efficiency: Equivalent to 106 MPGe (electric) / 42 mpg combined (gasoline)
Gas Type: Regular unleaded and electric
Tax and Registration: Low to moderate, with potential EV incentives
25. Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
Why Buy: The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid offers a spacious interior, excellent fuel economy, and a comfortable ride. It's perfect for families who want an eco-friendly SUV.
Features:
Hybrid powertrain for excellent fuel economy
Spacious and comfortable interior
Advanced safety and infotainment features
Reliability:
High-reliability ratings
Durable components
Maintenance Costs:
Moderate, with hybrid-specific parts potentially higher
Look and Quality:
Modern, stylish design
High-quality interior materials
Cost:
Used Price Range: $15,000 - $35,000
Fuel Efficiency: 40-45 mpg combined
Gas Type: Regular unleaded
Tax and Registration: Moderate
The Best Economical Used Cars for 2024
Choosing an economical used car involves considering a balance of features, reliability, maintenance costs, and fuel efficiency. The cars on this list represent some of the best options for buyers looking for value, durability, and low operating costs. From the legendary Toyota Prius and the reliable Honda Civic to the versatile Ford Fusion Hybrid and the stylish Mazda3, there is a car on this list for every type of driver.
When considering any of these vehicles, it’s essential to factor in additional costs such as taxes, registration, and potential repairs. However, the overall savings from fuel efficiency and low maintenance costs make these cars excellent choices for budget-conscious buyers. Each vehicle on this list has been chosen for its ability to provide reliable, cost-effective transportation, making them the top picks for economical used cars in 2024.
Drive Safe,
Cars & Stuff Team