Erratic gas prices may have you wondering if you can get a vehicle that doesn’t sacrifice performance to the fuel economy gods. Thankfully, there are several hybrid powertrains and efficiency-optimized internal combustion engines that let you have your cake and eat it, too. Here are 12 of the quickest cars you can currently buy that get 40 mpg or higher on the highway.
Chevrolet Cruze TD
Fuel economy: 31/48 mph city/highway (sedan); 30/45 mpg (hatchback)
0–60 mph: 8.4 seconds (hatch)
The diesel-powered Chevrolet Cruze offers 240 lb-ft of torque, and that’s plenty to get the car moving while offering excellent fuel economy. Although the Cruze ended production two months ago, you can probably still find the ill-fated compact on dealer lots.
Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
Fuel economy: 40/46 mpg (SE); 39/44 mpg (Limited)
0–60 mph: 8.3 seconds
The Hyundai Sonata Hybrid is a bit unconventional in that it, along with its sister vehicle the Kia Optima, eschews a CVT in favor of a conventional six-speed automatic. As a result, it gets better highway efficiency and its driving experience is familiar thanks to the geared transmission. Look for the next-generation 2020 Sonata Hybrid to arrive in a year.
Lexus ES 300h
Fuel economy: 43/45 mpg
0–60 mph: 7.8 seconds
Lexus is well known for its excellent build quality and its hybrid powertrains. The ES 300h improves on its predecessor with superior fuel economy wrapped in a spacious and luxurious package. Lexus’ new hybrid system now has 215 hp combined thanks to a new 2.5-liter I-4 that’s more powerful and has a thermal efficiency of 41 percent, on par with the Toyota Prius.
Volkswagen Jetta
Fuel economy: 30/40 mpg
0–60 mph: 7.6 seconds
Sporting a small yet mighty engine, the Volkswagen Jetta gives you power and efficiency in an affordable package. Volkswagen’s 1.4-liter turbo-four may only have 147 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque, but the way it moves may lead your passengers to think there’s more under the hood.
Hyundai Sonata Plug-In Hybrid
Fuel economy: 37/42 mpg
0–60 mph: 7.6 seconds
A larger lithium-ion battery and a more powerful electric motor give the Hyundai Sonata Plug-In Hybrid unexpected levels of thrust. When we reviewed the 2017 model, we were surprised at its quick acceleration, especially considering it weighs close to 4,000 pounds. Like the standard Sonata Hybrid, the current model will be replaced by a next-generation plug-in hybrid in about a year’s time.
Honda Clarity Plug-In
Fuel Economy: 44/40 mpg
0–60 mph: 7.5 seconds
Need a car that looks so distinct it’s like having an alien spaceship in your driveway? Look no further than the Honda Clarity Plug-In, a sedan that offers solid fuel economy and, surprisingly, pretty decent grunt. In EV mode, the Clarity Plug-In can travel 48 miles, giving you plenty of options on how to maximize your efficiency during your weekday commute.
Chevrolet Volt
Fuel economy: 43/42 mpg
0–60 mph: 7.5 seconds
The pioneering Chevrolet Volt plug-in hybrid has ended production, but it’s likely dealers still have a good number of them in stock. When the second generation arrived, the powertrain received a significant update, improving range and performance. As a result, it’s surprisingly sprightly and shouldn’t have issues getting around that slowpoke in front of you. The Chevrolet Volt can also travel up to 53 miles in EV mode, giving you a usable all-electric range for short drives and commutes.
Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid
Fuel economy: 49/43 mpg
0–60 mph: 7.4 seconds
With 182 hp combined, the Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid gives you power to go with that spacious interior and excellent fuel economy. The Malibu Hybrid’s powertrain takes learnings from the Chevrolet Volt’s Voltec system and applies it to a non-plug-in application for improved power, efficiency, and packaging.
Toyota Camry Hybrid LE
Fuel economy: 51/53 mpg
0–60 mph: 7.4 seconds
The Toyota Camry Hybrid offers more than 50 mpg on the highway and still provides 208 hp combined. The base LE trim differentiates itself as the only Camry Hybrid that utilizes a lithium-ion battery, allowing it to achieve those sky-high fuel economy figures without sacrificing power.
Honda Insight
Fuel economy: 55/49 mpg (LX, EX); 51/45 mpg (Touring)
0–60 mph: 7.3 seconds
The Honda Insight may only have 152 hp combined. but its 197 lb-ft of total torque helps it accelerate more quickly than you would expect. When it comes to handling, the Honda Insight also excels, outperforming its chief competitors.
Honda Civic Touring Sedan
Fuel economy: 32/42 mpg
0–60 mph: 6.8 seconds
Currently the benchmark in the compact segment, the Honda Civic blends power, agility, practicality, and efficiency better than many cars on the road today. Opt for the sedan to get the best fuel economy when equipped with the 174-hp 1.5-liter turbo-four and CVT.
Honda Accord Hybrid
Fuel economy: 48/48 mpg
0–60 mph: 6.7 seconds
A hybrid powertrain only makes the Honda Accord an even stronger midsize sedan offering and solidifies its status as the segment benchmark. With 212 hp combined, there’s plenty of power on tap. The powertrain pairs well with the Accord’s excellent ride and handling balance. The lithium-ion battery is now positioned under the rear seats, giving you more trunk space and a lower center of gravity for improved road manners.
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