Go the Extra Mile: The Best Gas-Only Cars for Fuel Efficiency

Young couple shares lighthearted moments and laughter during their adventurous car journey

Gas prices are still expensive, but fuel efficiency in cars has improved significantly over the past several years. If you’re looking to save money on gas without transitioning over to more expensive hybrid and electric models, here are the top 11 most fuel-efficient, gas-only cars for 2024. Plus, learn which driving habits can impact the amount of fuel you use.

11 Most Fuel-Efficient, Gas-only Cars (shown in miles per gallon or “mpg”)

  1. Mitsubishi Mirage: 39 mpg
  2. Honda Civic: 36 mpg
  3. Hyundai Elantra: 36 mpg
  4. Nissan Versa: 35 mpg
  5. Toyota Corolla: 35 mpg
  6. Kia Forte: 34 mpg
  7. Nissan Sentra: 34 mpg
  8. Volkswagen Jetta: 34 mpg
  9. Acura Integra: 33 mpg
  10. Nissan Kicks: 33 mpg
  11. Nissan Rogue: 33 mpg

These mpg numbers are a combined average of city and highway driving and reflect the great strides made by automakers over the past several years. However, the way you drive can also impact fuel economy. Here are five driving characteristics that may increase gas consumption.

1. Excessive short trips. Your engine works harder until it warms up, so if you drive a lot of short distances, you will use more fuel.

2. Aggressive driving. Heavy acceleration and braking forces your car to switch gears at a faster rate than is optimal, using more power.

3. Heavy vehicle weight. When your car is loaded down with things such as cargo, a bike rack, or a trailer, your engine must work harder.

4. Frequent cold weather travel. During cold weather, your engine takes longer to warm up, meaning less time running at a desired temperature for fuel efficiency.

5. Speeding. When you drive 80 miles per hour or faster, you create higher air resistance and burn through more gas.

You depend on your car, so having the right protection is important. Westwood works with some of the nation’s top auto insurance companies to find the best coverage and price for you. Contact a Westwood agent today to discuss car insurance options.

Please Note: This article is for general informational and educational purposes only. It does not represent any specific insurance policy and does not modify any provisions, limitations, or exclusions of any current policy.