Subcompact cars often steal the limelight when it comes to fuel efficiency, but the compact car segment is brimming with models that offer equally impressive gas mileage, alongside enhanced practicality and comfort. Whether you’re prioritizing your budget at the pump or seeking an environmentally conscious ride, exploring the realm of compact cars is essential. Many of these vehicles achieve remarkable fuel economy through innovative technologies, including hybrid powertrains and efficient diesel engines. Don’t overlook the advantages of a slightly larger footprint – compact cars provide extra passenger and cargo space without sacrificing fuel savings.
Let’s dive into our curated list of the Top 10 Compact Cars that excel in fuel efficiency, proving that you can have both economy and everyday usability.
1. 2013 Honda Civic Hybrid: The Consistent Fuel Sipper
The 2013 Honda Civic Hybrid consistently ranks among the top fuel-efficient compact cars, thanks to Honda’s proven Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) hybrid system. This model pairs a 1.5-liter, four-cylinder gasoline engine with an electric motor, delivering a combined output of 110 horsepower and 127 lb-ft of torque. What truly sets the Civic Hybrid apart is its exceptional fuel economy: an EPA-rated 44 mpg in the city and 44 mpg on the highway. This represents a significant 16 mpg improvement over the standard Civic in city driving. Paired with a smooth continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), the 2013 Civic Hybrid offers a seamless and economical driving experience.
2. 2013 Ford Focus SFE: Aerodynamic Efficiency for the Road
For drivers focused on maximizing fuel savings, the 2013 Ford Focus SFE (Super Fuel Economy) is a standout compact option. This trim level is specifically engineered for enhanced efficiency, incorporating features like low-rolling resistance tires, aerodynamic wheel covers, and a rear spoiler. Under the hood, the Focus SFE houses a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 160 horsepower and 146 lb-ft of torque. The SFE model is equipped with a six-speed dual-clutch automated manual transmission, optimized for fuel economy. The result is an impressive EPA rating of 28 mpg in city driving and 40 mpg on the highway, making the Focus SFE a smart choice for budget-conscious commuters.
3. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta TDI: Diesel Power and Efficiency
The 2013 Volkswagen Jetta TDI distinguishes itself in the compact car segment with its turbodiesel engine, offering a unique blend of fuel efficiency and robust performance. Its 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder diesel engine delivers 140 horsepower and a substantial 236 lb-ft of torque, providing ample power for everyday driving. Fuel economy figures are equally impressive, with an EPA rating of 30 mpg in the city and 42 mpg on the highway. The Jetta TDI comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission, with an optional six-speed dual-clutch automated manual available. For added versatility, a wagon version of the Jetta TDI was also offered, making it a practical and fuel-efficient choice for families.
4. 2014 Toyota Corolla: Redesign for Modern Efficiency
The 2014 Toyota Corolla marked a significant step forward in fuel efficiency for this popular compact car, thanks to a comprehensive redesign. While maintaining its reliable 1.8-liter engine, producing 132 horsepower and 128 lb-ft of torque, the 2014 Corolla introduced updated transmission options to enhance fuel economy. Available with either a six-speed manual or a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), the Corolla achieved improved MPG figures. Specifically, the Corolla Eco trim, equipped with a CVT, reaches an EPA-estimated 30 mpg in the city and 42 mpg on the highway, matching the diesel-powered Jetta TDI in highway efficiency. This redesign solidified the Corolla’s position as a top compact car for fuel-conscious buyers.
5. 2013 Nissan Sentra: CVT Optimizes Fuel Savings
The 2013 Nissan Sentra represents a significant improvement in fuel efficiency for this compact sedan, primarily due to the adoption of a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Moving away from previous generations, the 2013 Sentra became a strong contender in the fuel economy race, achieving an EPA rating of 30 mpg city and 40 mpg highway in FE trim. The FE trim incorporates aerodynamic enhancements and other fuel-saving features. Powering the Sentra is a 1.8-liter, four-cylinder engine producing 130 horsepower and 128 lb-ft of torque. While not class-leading in power, the Sentra prioritizes fuel efficiency and affordability, making it a practical choice for daily commutes.
6. 2013 Acura ILX Hybrid: Luxury Compact with Hybrid Economy
The 2013 Acura ILX Hybrid brings a touch of luxury to the fuel-efficient compact car segment. Sharing its platform with the Honda Civic Hybrid, the ILX Hybrid utilizes a similar Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) hybrid system. It combines a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, resulting in a total output of 111 horsepower. While slightly heavier than the Civic Hybrid, the ILX Hybrid still delivers impressive fuel economy, with an EPA rating of 39 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway. Equipped with a continuously variable automatic transmission, the Acura ILX Hybrid offers a refined and fuel-conscious option for those seeking a premium compact car.
7. 2014 Chevrolet Cruze Diesel: Highway Fuel Economy Leader
The 2014 Chevrolet Cruze Diesel elevates fuel efficiency within the Cruze lineup, surpassing even the turbocharged gasoline models. Its 2.0-liter turbodiesel engine produces 151 horsepower and a robust 264 lb-ft of torque, making it the most powerful Cruze variant. More importantly for fuel economy, the Cruze Diesel achieves an EPA rating of 27 mpg in the city and an outstanding 46 mpg on the highway. This highway figure is a notable 4 mpg higher than the Cruze Eco model, making it a top choice for long commutes. The Cruze Diesel comes exclusively with a six-speed automatic transmission, optimized for both performance and efficiency.
8. 2013 Subaru Impreza: All-Wheel Drive Efficiency
The 2013 Subaru Impreza breaks barriers by offering all-wheel drive capability without sacrificing fuel economy. Overcoming the added weight of AWD systems, the Impreza achieves better-than-average MPG thanks to its 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine and available continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). When equipped with the CVT, the Impreza delivers an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway. This makes the Subaru Impreza the most fuel-efficient all-wheel drive car in its class. Producing 148 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque, the Impreza is available in both hatchback and sedan body styles, offering versatility and all-weather confidence.
9. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle TDI: Stylish and Economical Diesel
The 2013 Volkswagen Beetle TDI combines iconic styling with the fuel-efficient turbodiesel engine found in the Jetta TDI. This makes it an appealing option for style-conscious drivers seeking excellent gas mileage. The Beetle TDI features the same 2.0-liter, four-cylinder turbodiesel engine, producing 140 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque. For optimal fuel economy, the six-speed dual-clutch automated manual transmission is recommended, achieving an EPA rating of 28 mpg city and 41 mpg highway. Available in both coupe and convertible body styles, the Beetle TDI offers a unique blend of personality and practicality, especially as a rare diesel-powered convertible option in the US market.
10. 2014 Mazda MAZDA3: Skyactiv Technology for MPG and Handling
The 2014 Mazda Mazda3 stands out as a top compact car not only for its fuel efficiency but also for its engaging driving dynamics. Introducing Mazda’s Skyactiv engine technology, the Mazda3 utilizes lightweight, direct-injected engines to maximize efficiency. A 2.0-liter Skyactiv-G engine produces 155 horsepower and 148 lb-ft of torque in the Mazda3. When paired with the six-speed automatic transmission, the Mazda3 achieves an EPA rating of 30 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway. Beyond fuel economy, the Mazda3 is also praised for its above-average handling and sporty driving feel, making it a well-rounded and enjoyable compact car.
