If you’re shopping for a used car, you likely know that newer models typically deliver better gas mileage thanks to less wear and tear on their components. However, with budgets tighter than ever, purchasing a brand-new vehicle may not be an option.
The good news? Hybrid and electric vehicles are now making waves in the used car market. These energy-efficient options not only help save on fuel costs but also tend to hold solid trade-in value, making them a smart choice even when they’re a few years old.
Toyota Prius
The Toyota Prius L Eco stands out as an affordable hybrid option, delivering an impressive 56 miles per gallon.
For those shopping within the 2016-2022 model years, you’ll benefit from modern safety features like lane-keeping assistance, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams—all at prices starting around $14,695.
Budget-conscious buyers can explore older models dating back to 2004, often available for as little as $2,000 to $3,000, offering a cost-effective entry into hybrid ownership.
Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid Blue
The “blue” doesn’t refer to the color. You can still get any color you like with this hybrid option that gets 58 or 59 miles per gallon, depending on which model year you choose.
Models from 2017-2019 get 58 miles per gallon; 2020-2022 gets 59 miles per gallon. The newer models also come with more high-tech options like smartphone integration, an infotainment screen. Driver alertness monitoring to make sure you don’t fall asleep at the wheel.
Brand-new Ioniq Hybrids aren’t cheap, often going for over $45,000. However, used ones can be found for roughly $15,500.
Honda Insight
The 2019-2022 Honda Insight gets 52 miles per gallon. Choose the EX or LX trim option for better gas mileage.
Relatively new Honda Insights are priced from about $12,000 to $25,500, depending on the options available.
The Honda Insight has a range of safety features for which it won the 2022 Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) award, making it a good pick for families or newly licensed drivers.
Tesla Anything
Everyone appreciate the appeal of never stopping at a gas station again. Tesla revolutionized the auto industry by making electric vehicles mainstream, with its Models S, 3, X, Y, and the Cybertruck all running exclusively on electricity.
While long-distance travel can pose challenges—like finding a charging station—Tesla’s Supercharger network covers most major U.S. interstate highways, with locations continuously expanding. For planning convenience, this map highlights Supercharger spots to help you stay powered up on the go.
One caveat: Electric cars do add to your utility bill if you charge them at home. Depending on energy costs in your area, it’s worthwhile to consider installing energy efficient chargers in your home to maximize savings.
Related: Homeowners Miss Up to $22,000 in Home Energy Efficiency Tax Rebates
Hyundai Kona Electric
The 2021 Hyundai Kona Electric offers an impressive range of up to 281 miles at an affordable price point. It’s a sporty crossover that is a good pick for people who have an outdoorsy lifestyle. The Kona has won numerous awards, including Car and Driver‘s 2024 Editor’s Choice Award for best subcompact SUV.
According to Edmunds, used 2021 Kona Electrics can be found for as low as $12,575, while newer 2023 models typically range between $20,000 and $30,000, depending on their features and specifications.
Ford F-150 Lightning
For those looking for a more robust vehicle that can tow and carry a good amount of weight, there’s good news. Ford entered the electric vehicle market with the F-150 Lightning, which starts at an MSRP of $85,000 for new models.
However, used options are available at a significantly lower price, with some listings for well-maintained models from as recent as two years ago starting around $40,990.
The Ford F-150 lighting can tow up to 10,000 pounds, depending on the model, making it a good options for fisherman towing boats or campers with a trailer.
BMW 330e
The BMW 330e is an unusual sort of hybrid that can be charged up for better gas mileage.
When fully charged, a 2021 330e can get 75 miles per gallon. Without a charge, it gets 28 miles per gallon. Used BMW 330e vehicles range from about $25,000 to almost $34,000.
With an increasing number of hybrid and electric vehicles entering the used car market, consumers now have more budget-friendly options to improve fuel efficiency and lower emissions.
Whether you’re eyeing a reliable Toyota Prius or considering a more advanced Tesla model, these vehicles’ good gas mileage offer long-term savings and sustainability—proving that going green doesn’t always mean breaking the bank.
Related: Texas AG Investigating Auto Makers Selling Driver Data to Insurance Companies
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. The views and opinions expressed are those of the author and do not represent recommendations for any specific financial actions. Neither author nor Fiscal Report does not receive a commission through recommended links in this content.
