It seems that the 1970s have come back into fashion. Inflation has reached a 40-year high, Russia is causing the world agita, the vehicles we drive are gas hogs, and the cost of fueling them has reached modern-day highs.
According to the American Automobile Association, the national average for a gallon of regular gasoline on Thursday is $4.318 per gallon, with premium fuel running at $4.912. That’s up from $2.815 and $3.393 a year ago respectively. That’s an increase of 34.8% and 30.9 percent.
And while the feds insist that the inflation rate in February was 7.5%, some figures would suggest it’s higher. It’s enough to make you dig out your WIN button.
Fighting fuel inflation
But there are fuel-sipping alternatives that can help relieve the ever-escalating cost of driving. We’ve gathered up the most fuel-efficient 2022 model-year cars, according to the EPA.
One caveat to our list: we have excluded battery-electric vehicles (EVs) and plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), as some 40% of Americans have no access to regular charging. So this list consists solely of vehicles powered by traditional internal combustion engines (ICE), as well hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) that pair an ICE with a battery pack, and do not need to be plugged in. However, they are all gas-electric hybrids. Let’s ride.
Most fuel-efficient ICE cars
Hyundai Ioniq Blue: 59 mpg
Cost to fill the tank: $43
Range: 702 miles
MSRP: $23,600
This inconspicuous hatchback is nothing if not efficient. Its fuel efficiency is the best among ICE vehicles, and its space utilization is so good, it’s considered a large car by EPA interior measurements, even though it’s a compact, at 176 inches long. But those same dynamics make uninteresting to drive.
Toyota Prius Eco: 56 mpg
Cost to fill the tank: $41
Range: 633 miles
MSRP: $25,650
Once the undisputed hybrid leader, the Prius’ frontrunner status faltered due to styling that resembles an alien life form. And its technology is now available in more other Toyotas with similar fuel economy. Add in its listless acceleration and handling, and you might prefer over hybrids. And other Prius models return lower fuel economy.
Hyundai Elantra Hybrid Blue: 54 mpg
Cost to fill the tank: $40
Range: 594 miles
MSRP: $23,850
Boasting the compact sedan’s same fastback style as its ICE siblings, the Elantra Hybrid Blue shares their roomy cabin and interior design meant to evoke more upmarket cars. It feels lively off the line thanks to its dual-clutch transmission, and its refined ride makes it even better. However, other Elantra Hybrids return just 50 mpg.
Toyota Camry Hybrid LE: 52 mpg
Cost to fill the tank: $48
Range: 686 miles
MSRP: $27,480
The least costly of Camry Hybrids is also the least thrilling, although most drivers will find acceptable despite the CVT transmission. Enthusiasts should opt for the Camry Hybrid’s sportier SE or XSE trims, which are more fun to drive. The flip side is lower fuel economy, 46 mpg, and just 607 miles of range. But the trade-off may be worth it.
Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Blue: 52 mpg
Cost to fill the tank: $48
Range: 686 miles
MSRP: $27,480
The Hyundai Sonata Blue’s 52 mpg EPA rating surpasses other Sonata Hybrids’ 47 mpg rating by using 16-inch wheels and removing the spare tire to save weight. Uniquely, this hybrid’s roof has solar panels that Hyundai says adds up to two miles of driving range per day. But acceleration is leisurely, which is fine if you’re in no hurry.
Toyota Corolla Hybrid: 50 mpg
Cost to fill the tank: $41
Range: 593 miles
MSRP: $23,750
If any car has sapped the Prius’ sales, it’s this one. It has a lower base price, comparable fuel economy, has a far more useable trunk and it looks normal. And it feels and acts like its conventional siblings, although it’s livelier off-the-line thanks to the electric motor’s added punch. Consider it a transportation butler of the first order.
Kia Niro: 49 mpg
Cost to fill the tank: $43
Range: 583 miles
MSRP: $24,690
With its conservative hatchback styling and conventional automatic transmission, the Kia Niro proves to be exceedingly normal in feel. But its driveline proves disappointing, with lackluster acceleration and a wonky transmission. A redesigned version is about to hit showrooms, so opt for this one only if you can score a deal.
Honda Insight: 48 mpg
Cost to fill the tank: $38
Range: 551 miles
MSRP $25,760
When it comes to good looking hybrids, few come close to the Honda Insight. Its eloquent elegance renders it the best-looking Honda sedan at any price. The Insight’s throttle response is strong off the line, but it prefers smooth, gradual inputs. This is a pleasant, well-mannered sedan with a spacious, quiet cabin that belies its price.
Honda Accord Hybrid: 47 mpg
Cost to fill the tank: $46
Range: 602 miles
MSRP: $27,320
The Accord Hybrid possesses the same fun-to-drive character that Honda has imparted for decades, with a remarkable balance of a comfortable ride and sporty handling. But the EPA rating is for the base model; the Touring Hybrid has 19-inch wheels, is rated at 43 mpg and loses 57 miles of range.
Toyota Avalon Hybrid XLE/Lexus ES300h: 44 mph (tie)
Cost to fill the tank: $48
Range: 581 miles
MSRP: $35,875 (Toyota); $39,990 (Lexus)
Built on the same platform, these identical cousins provide full-size car amenities with compact car fuel efficiency. The Toyota offers nearly an inch of additional legroom, and an additional 2.2 cubic feet of trunk space, while delivering the same 215 horsepower and 44 mpg fuel efficiency as the Lexus. Try both before you buy.
