In a lot of our minds, the word “efficiency” is lumped in with words like “boring” and “nap.” It doesn’t have to be that way. There are cars that prioritize being fuel efficient while avoiding those other two connotations. Here’s a short list of cars that are efficient, but also engaging to drive. Options that might make that daily commute something other than a slog. We’ve ranked them by EPA combined MPG rating.
Toyota Prius (49-57 mpg)
A few years ago, the name “Prius” and the words “fun to drive” would never have appeared in the same sentence. Or even the same paragraph. Unless the person saying it was attempting to be funny. Things change, though, and they’ve changed in a big way for the Prius. Toyota’s engineers fought for a sportier Prius and won.
The car that made the word hybrid a household term and whose name is synonymous with the idea is now also fun to drive. What was once a “be green or else” punishment box on wheels is now a legitimately entertaining road car. The plug-in hybrid (formerly the “Prime”) model is especially quick on its rubber feet.
Hyundai Elantra Hybrid (54 mpg)
Purists will demand that the Elantra Hybrid be put on top of this list. It is, after all, one of the only hybrids that isn’t using a continuously variable transmission (CVT). And everyone who is a car enthusiast will tell you that CVTs destroy all fun of any kind.
In the real world, though, “fun” is a lot more subjective and a CVT is just another kind of automated transmission. But there is something to be said for the more exotic dual-clutch automatic found in the Elantra Hybrid. Actual gears moving around is becoming a rarity today. Even rarer is the car that has gears shifting and still manages over 50 mpg. While remaining light-footed and feeling interesting on the road. We include the Elantra Hybrid as more than just a nod to the enthusiasts. It’s fun no matter who is driving.
Honda Civic Hybrid (49 mpg)
It’s a Civic and it’s a hybrid, so it’s already got the words “fuel efficient” tamped into its DNA. The Civic Hybrid, however, is also a pretty sweet little road machine. The electric part of the hybrid powertrain means it has torque as soon as you push the pedal. But more importantly, it doesn’t kill all of the enthusiasm by over-focusing on fuel savings.
The Civic Hybrid has sharp-feeling steering, a good balance in its poise, great low-end acceleration, and just a general enthusiasm that is unusual for a near-50 mpg fuel sipper.
MINI Cooper S (32 mpg)
This list of efficient fun boxes has a lot of great contenders, but none of them have the kind of instant cachet and style the MINI has. Its fuel economy could be a whole lot better, given its size, but it makes up for that with pure panache.
The Cooper S is the smallest of the MINI lineup and the one most associated with its original British design; and, for those old enough to remember, the Austin Powers films. It’s also the most fun to drive thanks to its diminutive stature.
Mazda MX-5 Miata (29 mpg)
No list of engaging vehicles is complete without at least mentioning the Miata. For most people, when the name “Mazda” is given, this is the car that automatically pops into mind. It has a near cult-like following for a reason and no explanation as to why it’s fun needs to be given. If a Labrador Retriever were a car, it’d be an MX-5.
Efficiency isn’t its strong suit, though, as the Miata’s best highway mpg returns are 35 at best. This also isn’t the most practical car on our list. But it had to be included. Because.. Miata. Including it here avoids the flood of negative commentary that would have arrived otherwise. And we don’t blame its fans for that. It’s a whole lotta happy in a great little package.
