It's no secret that hybrid, plug-in hybrid vehicles are the top fuel-saving options, but they're typically more expensive off the dealer lot. For that motive alone, gas-only new cars that get a reasonable distance are often the best option for many purchasers. It's helped that the engineering of the internal fire powertrain has come a long way in the past two decades or so, with automakers stuffing ever more efficient and powerful turbocharged four- and six-cylinder engines—as well as efficiency-focused transmissions and stop/start features—into their cars. Some new vehicles have even been arriving with three-cylinder engines underneath the hood.
Despite the improvements, the quantity of new cars equipped with gas-only engine options has steadily declined as EVs and hybrids proliferate. But for today, at least, numerous affordable vehicles remain on the market calculated to squeeze every mpg from their internal combustion powertrains. How many highly efficient models are immobile out there? Here's our list of 20 of the best gas-distance cars for 2024 that do it without the need for electrified assistance. The list uses the EPA's combined mpg ratings number, and any ties were broken by higher city besides/or highway numbers. So these are some top mileage cars!
2024 Subaru Impreza | 30 Mpg
Supervising the 2024 Subaru Impreza can be easy, considering Subaru's solid car has often been overshadowed by its rivals, Honda and then Toyota, for one reason or another over the years. However, those shoppers would need to sleep on the newest Impreza. It has good gas mileage, plenty of room for five adults, an affluence of standard and available features, and Subaru's average signature all-wheel-drive system, which offers an additional grip for roughly the same price as its front-drive-only counterparts. And now it's more productive than ever.
2024 Audi A4 | 30 Mpg
The 2024 Audi A4 comes through almost everything you could want in a German diversion sedan. It has a sophisticated look inside and out and more standard and available safety and convenience tech than ever before, and it now comes with standard Quattro all-wheel drive. The A4 also proposes a choice between two engines, though those seeking the most efficiency will need to pick the base 2.0-liter turbo engine (40 TFSI), which attains up to 30 mpg combined.
2024 Mercedes-Benz C300 | 30 Mpg
Though the 2024 Mercedes-Benz C300 is measured as an entry-level compact luxury sedan, in recent years, the C-Class has come to resemble a baby type of the larger and hyper-luxurious S-Class. The base C300 is well-crafted and has plenty of upscale appointments planned to make it stand out from the competition. Best of all, its base 2.0-liter turbocharged engine can realise up to 30 mpg combined.
2024 Mini Clubman | 30 Mpg
There are a plethora of subcompact car SUVs on the market to choose from. Nevertheless, the 2024 Mini Clubman is among the more distinctive and fun-to-drive options. While its unique styling may be a little too intellectual for some, those who can accept the Clubman for what it is, are treated to lively driving dynamics for the segment, a spacious and unique interior, and as much using 30 mpg in mixed driving situations.
2024 Chevrolet Malibu | 31 Mpg
You'd be excused if you didn't realise the Chevy Malibu was still being bent for retail sale (we had to double-check ourselves). But undeniably, the 2024 Chevrolet Malibu is still on the market, and it's one of the scarce American sedans left standing for the 2024 classical year. Although it differs from its midsize competitors, Toyota and Honda, the Chevy Malibu still has much to offer. An airy interior and cargo area make it practical for most families; its 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-four, mated to a CVT automatic, develops 160 hp then 184 lb-ft of torque. While that engine lacks in the power department, it types up for gas mileage, netting 31 mpg in combined driving, though it trails the Camry beside the Accord there, as well.
2024 Mazda 3 | 32 Mpg
The Mazda 3 is the backbone of the compact car category, and it's easy to see why. The 2024 Mazda 3 continues through a tried-and-true formula of providing sharp looks, a fun-to-drive nature, and inspiring fuel efficiency. There are a few new updates to the Mazda 3 for 2024, plus a much-needed 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
2024 Mini Cooper Hardtop | 32 Mpg
The Mini Cooper Hardtop has continually been a unique take on the Runabout hatchback; besides that, the design carries on for the 2024 model. Yes, the Cooper Hardtop has grown up over the years, but it's still fun to drive and offers just enough room for four adults. There are three trains to choose from, but those looking to squeeze the most significant gas mileage out of a Cooper need to pick the base 1.3-liter turbocharged engine, capable of as much as 38 mpg on the highway.
2024 Nissan Altima | 32 Mpg
The 2024 Nissan Altima has been a staple among the best selling midsize sedans, challenging the venerable Toyota Camry and the Honda Accord. It remained competitive with those models thanks to its low entry fee, chiselled styling, and intriguing 2.0-liter VC-Turbo engine option. But, if you're looking to save as much fuel as possible, the Altima's base 2.5-liter through 188 hp in front-drive/CVT configuration is capable of a 39-mpg highway rating, according to the EPA.
Conclusion
Mazda's new "Skyactiv-G 1.3" train is a case in point. The Japanese automaker utters a Demio subcompact (shown) with the new 1.3-liter direct injection mill, an uninterruptedly variable transmission, and stop-start tech that delivers 30 kilometres per litre under Japan's 10-15 mode test cycle. That's coarsely equivalent to 70 mpg.
