With rising fuel costs and growing environmental awareness, fuel economy has become one of the most important factors for used vehicle shoppers. At AutoPark Brampton, we know our customers want a vehicle that doesn’t just offer a great price—but also helps save money at the pump for years to come. That’s why we’ve compiled a detailed guide to the 10 most fuel-efficient gas-powered pre-owned cars and SUVs released in the last five years, based on official Canadian fuel consumption data and real-world performance.
These vehicles combine efficiency with practicality, and they are easy to maintain and widely available on the pre-owned market.
When it comes to fuel economy, the Mitsubishi Mirage leads the way among gasoline vehicles. Thanks to its lightweight design and small 1.2L 3-cylinder engine, the Mirage offers exceptional efficiency with a combined consumption as low as 6.2 L/100 km in recent models. It’s ideal for city commuters who prioritize cost-effective transportation. While performance is modest, it delivers incredible savings and easy maintenance.
The Toyota Yaris may be compact, but it packs a punch in value. Models equipped with the 1.5L 4-cylinder engine and automatic transmission can deliver a combined fuel consumption of 6.8 L/100 km, with some trims offering even better numbers. The Yaris is also known for reliability, low maintenance costs, and simple mechanicals—ideal traits for long-term ownership.
The Honda Fit stands out not only for its roomy and flexible interior but also for its impressive fuel efficiency. The 1.5L engine paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) achieves around 6.5 L/100 km combined. It’s one of the most versatile subcompacts on the market, with a strong track record for low-cost ownership and high resale value.
One of the most common and dependable compact sedans on the market, the Hyundai Elantra offers excellent value and low running costs. Equipped with a 2.0L engine and CVT, recent Elantra models can average 6.7 to 6.9 L/100 km combined. It's also well-equipped, with newer models offering advanced safety features, Apple CarPlay, and a comfortable ride, making it a great fuel-saving daily driver.
The Kia Rio offers many of the same fuel economy benefits as the Hyundai Elantra but in a slightly smaller and more affordable package. Models from recent years with the 1.6L engine and automatic transmission achieve a combined rating of about 6.7 L/100 km. The Rio is known for reliability, easy maneuverability, and surprising comfort for its class.
The Toyota Corolla continues to be a benchmark in the compact segment. With a 1.8L 4-cylinder engine and CVT, recent models deliver real-world fuel economy between 6.8 and 7.1 L/100 km, depending on trim. In addition to efficiency, the Corolla offers outstanding long-term durability, and its wide availability in the used market makes it easy to find a well-maintained model with low mileage.
While it’s known for offering a more engaging drive, the Mazda3 is also impressively efficient when properly equipped. Models with the 2.0L Skyactiv-G engine and front-wheel drive can achieve combined consumption as low as 6.7 L/100 km. This makes it one of the more fun-to-drive cars in this list without sacrificing fuel savings. Plus, Mazda’s improved rust protection and interior quality in recent years make newer models especially appealing as used purchases.
The return of the Nissan Versa to the Canadian market brought a compact sedan that blends value with modern safety and efficiency. The 1.6L engine with Xtronic CVT delivers fuel economy as low as 6.7 L/100 km combined. It’s an affordable, well-equipped car that covers the basics with very low ongoing costs.
Canada’s best-selling car for many years, the Honda Civic balances performance with fuel efficiency extremely well. Equipped with a 2.0L engine and CVT, most trims average between 6.9 and 7.1 L/100 km combined. Turbocharged 1.5L models also offer strong efficiency—especially on the highway. Civics are also known for their strong residual value, making them a smart buy on the pre-owned market.
Among compact SUVs, the Nissan Kicks stands out for its economy. It offers the versatility of a crossover with the fuel consumption of a subcompact car. Powered by a 1.6L engine and CVT, the Kicks averages around 7.1 L/100 km combined. It also offers a high driving position, solid cargo space, and advanced safety tech, making it a great option for those who want efficiency without going fully electric or hybrid.
While the above list focuses on gas-powered vehicles, many used car buyers are now exploring electrified options as a way to maximize fuel savings and reduce emissions. At AutoPark Brampton, we often carry a variety of pre-owned hybrid, plug-in hybrid (PHEV), and fully electric vehicles (EVs), and these can offer even lower operating costs when used appropriately.
Models like the Toyota Prius, Hyundai IONIQ Hybrid, and Ford Escape Hybrid offer excellent gas mileage (often under 5.0 L/100 km) with no need to plug in. They’re ideal for drivers who want better fuel efficiency without changing their habits.
Vehicles such as the Toyota RAV4 Prime, Hyundai Tucson PHEV, and Kia Niro PHEV combine electric-only driving for short commutes (typically 40–60 km) with gas backup for longer trips. For those with access to charging, a used PHEV offers substantial savings.
For those ready to go fully electric, pre-owned EVs like the Chevrolet Bolt, Hyundai Kona EV, and Nissan LEAF provide excellent value. With no fuel required and fewer mechanical parts, EVs offer low running costs and minimal maintenance. Many models come with ranges between 250 km and 400 km, more than enough for most daily needs.
Fuel efficiency is a top priority for many drivers—and at AutoPark Brampton, we make it easy to find the right vehicle to meet that goal. Whether you’re interested in a compact gas-powered car with outstanding mileage, a hybrid for everyday commuting, or a used EV to eliminate fuel costs altogether, we’re here to guide you toward the best choice.
Our selection of inspected, reliable pre-owned vehicles includes a wide range of fuel-efficient options for every budget. Let our team help you make a smart decision that saves you money every time you drive.
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