1 Hyundai Tops TrueCar’s List of the Best Cars Over 40 MPG (And It Beat the Prius)
It’s 2023! And although gas prices have calmed down a bit nationwide, it’s still a good idea to get behind the wheel of a fuel-efficient car. Fortunately, there are plenty of new cars on the market that can easily achieve over 40 miles per gallon. TrueCar put together a list of the best new cars to buy, and there’s one Hyundai model that leads the pack. It even beat out the legendary Toyota Prius.
Which Hyundai model bests them all?
There are three Hyundai models that top TrueCar’s list, but the Elantra Hybrid bests them all. Although the Toyota Prius has been the gas mileage champion for decades, Hyundai has been coming out on top for the past few years. The Elantra Hybrid is proof of this with its ability to achieve up to 53 mpg in the city and 56 mpg on the highway, according to the EPA.
It’s able to get these stratospheric numbers from a thrifty 1.6-liter, four-cylinder engine that’s paired with an electric motor for the best fuel efficiency. In addition to its hybrid powertrain, the Elantra has plenty to offer. According to TrueCar, “The Hyundai Elantra maintains its strong standing among other compact sedans with a roomy interior, a long list of standard safety features, and a very generous warranty.”
Additionally, the Elantra sets itself apart from the rest with its unique styling and sharply creased door panels. Although it may look a little to some, we think that the Elantra’s looks will withstand the test of time. It’s also hard to beat its pricing, which starts below $25,000 and tops out at $29,000 for the up-level Limited trim.
Two other Hyundais came rounded out the top 3 cars
Two other Hyundai models, the Sonata Hybrid and Ioniq, rounded out the top 3 cars on the list as they both get well over 40 mpg. More specifically, the 2023 Sonata Hybrid is able to achieve up to 50 mpg in the city and 54 mpg on the highway thanks to a 192-hp gas/electric powertrain. The folks at TrueCar praised its gas-saving abilities in addition to its spacious cabin and attractive styling.
The Hyundai Ioniq is a little more utilitarian in its execution. TrueCar labeled the Ioniq as “a solid, down-the-middle hybrid,” which is also available as a plug-in hybrid model. The Ioniq’s aerodynamic shape greatly contributes to its fuel-sipping properties. It stays ahead of the rest of the pack with its EPA-estimated 59 mpg rating in combined driving situations.
What about the Toyota Prius?
Don’t worry; the 2022 Toyota Prius Prime made the list, although it came in fourth place. Although the Prius Prime offers a plug-in hybrid powertrain that allows it to get up to 55 mpg in the city and 53 mpg on the highway, TrueCar noted that its ride quality is a little lacking.
“The Prius Prime’s isolated, overly soft ride quality isn’t likely to get you revved up about your commute. And from an aesthetic perspective, the pedestrian-looking cabin is a downgrade relative to the car’s rivals,” noted the editors at TrueCar.
Despite its mushy ride quality, it’s hard to argue with the Prius Prime’s ability to travel up to 25 miles on electric power only, which adds to its fuel-sipping appeal. Ultimately, though, this list proves that it’s not just about the Prius anymore. The era of fuel-efficient Hyundais has arrived.
