Consumer Reports‘s latest car issue lists the most reliable fuel-efficient used cars on the market. That reminds us that for fuel efficiency, for “sticker” price, and often for reliability, used cars are a better value than new cars, even the most fuel-efficient models.
Of course, as Consumer Reports notes, even used cars can cost upwards of $20,000 — not exactly cheap, especially since you can get at least seven fuel-efficient 2010 cars for under $20,000.
Here’s a look at Consumer Reports‘ top five fuel-efficient used cars under $10,000, along with the mileage you can expect (complete list).
- 2000-01 Honda Insight (manual) — 51 mpg (pictured)
- 2001-2004 Toyota Prius — 44 mpg (2004 only; otherwise 41 mpg)
- 2000-05 Toyota Echo — 38 mpg
- 2003-05 Honda Civic Hybrid — 36 mpg
- 2007 Toyota Yaris Liftback (base, manual) — 34 mpg
If you like to buy American or worry because of recent Toyota recalls, then go for the 2000-02 Chevrolet Prizm, which at 32 mpg, is the only American car to make the list of under-$10,000, reliable, fuel-efficient used cars.
But buying a used car can be more challenging than buying new, for those who don’t consider themselves car buffs. It takes more research (try edmunds.com to start). How do you know you’re getting a good value? And who can you turn to if something goes wrong?
That’s what makes the Consumer Reports list invaluable.
More from The Daily Green
- How to Pay 69 Cents a Gallon for Gas
- The Best Fuel-Efficient SUV Crossovers
- The Most Fuel-Efficient 2010 Vehicles
- Seven Affordable Fuel-Efficient Cars
- 10 Ways to Save 20% on Gas Every Day
Reprinted with permission of Hearst Communications, Inc