Gas prices don’t appear to be dropping anytime soon, so it’s more important than ever to find a fuel-efficient vehicle. Small cars tend to have the best mileage (due to weight and shape) so if you’re looking to downsize with your next car, here’s a list of the 2012 small cars with the best gas mileage: Note: this list will NOT include electric vehicles (look out for that list soon).
2012 Ford Fiesta FWD – With a combined MPG of 33 (weighted average of city and highway), the Fiesta is a sporty, economical little vehicle.
MPG (city): 29
MPG (highway): 40
Passenger space: 85ft3
Tank size: 12.0 gallons
Estimated annual fuel cost: $1450
2012 Chevy Sonic 5 – as eluded by its name, the Sonic packs a punch all in a fun little ride. The 4 cylinder, 1.4L manual transmission model gives you the most economical ride.
MPG (city): 29
MPG (highway): 40
Passenger space: 91ft3
Tank size: 12.2 gallons
Estimated annual fuel cost: $1450
2012 Scion iQ – now you’re talking small. Officially in the “minicompact” EPA category, this mini hugs the road and packs a 1.3L, 4 cylinder engine. With an impressive city MPG of 36 and comfortable front-wheel drive steering, it’s a nice step up for Toyota.
MPG (city): 36
MPG (highway): 37
Passenger space: 74ft3
Tank size: 12.2 gallons
Estimated annual fuel cost: $1450
» Overall, the Scion has the best aggregate gas mileage.
2012 Hyundai Accent – with an average MPG of 34 and the lowest base price in this list (~$12.4k), the Accent excels in most of the key specs without giving up too much in style and quality.
MPG (city): 30
MPG (highway): 40
Passenger space: 89ft3
Tank size: 11.4 gallons
Estimated annual fuel cost: $1423
Editor’s pick for 2012 (small car division).
In all, more and more drivers are giving small cars a second look these days. They won’t dominate a road like a sports car or SUV, but it’ll make you pocketbook quite happy. A few tips while performing a gas mileage comparison: make sure you focus on the exact engine type and size (small variations can change the final MPG). Also, consider the trunk space — most MPG-conscious manufacturers need to sacrifice weight/space wherever possible and the trunk is often a primary target. If you consistently need the extra room, make sure you give the trunk space a proper look in person before you buy.
Every year, manufacturers continue to push the envelope with gas efficiency. 2012 was no different as it brought in a new set of small cars with the best gas mileage for their respective classes. As a consumer, it’s always a balancing act between gas efficiency and ease (or fun) of driving. Fortunately, manufacturers are slowly bridging that gap and this year’s class is quite evident of that. Good luck with your search and enjoy your savings!
Loading ...