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Top Cars That Save You the Most on Gas

Oct. 27, 2021
3 mins
Woman with baby on hip filling up her vehicle with gas

Feeling pinched at the pump lately? You’re likely not alone.

Nationwide, Canadians have seen increases in gas prices. According to recent data from Statistics Canada, the cost of gasoline went up by 32.8% year-over-year in September. This figure may be troubling to some, especially those in the market for a new (or used) vehicle.

The difference in fuel costs between vehicles can definitely make or break your purchase decision. The best way to save on gas overall is to avoid gas-guzzlers and look into a fuel-efficient model. Nowadays, there are many conventional cars, hybrids, plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and battery-electric (BEV) vehicles on the market, but some can save you more on gas than others.

That being said, each year, Natural Resources Canada (NRC) recognizes the most fuel-efficient vehicles sold in Canada by class. So before gas prices make you trade in your keys for sneakers, check out this list of the best fuel-efficient vehicles that you can buy right now.

2021’s most fuel efficient vehicles: conventional and hybrids

Vehicle Most Fuel-Efficient in Class Estimated Annual Fuel Cost
Two-seater Mazda MX-5 $2,212
Minicompact Mini Cooper Convertible $2,100
Subcompact Chevrolet Spark $1,750
Compact Toyota Corolla Hybrid $1,125
Midsize Hyundai Elantra Hybrid Blue $1,100
Full size Hyundai IONIQ Blue $1,000
Small station wagon Kia Niro and Kia Niro FE $1,150
Midsize station wagon Mercedes-Benz E 450 4MATIC All-Terrain Wagon $2,688
Small pickup Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon $2,424
Small SUV Ford Escape Hybrid $1,450
Standard SUV Toyota Highlander Hybrid AWD and Toyota Highlander Hybrid AWD Limited/Platinum $1,675
Minivan Toyota Sienna $1,625

2021’s most fuel-efficient vehicles: advanced technology (PHEVs and BEVs)

Vehicle Most Fuel-Efficient in Class Estimated Annual Cost to Run
Subcompact BMW i3 (120Ah) and BMW i3s (120 Ah) $481
Compact Porsche Taycan 4S (Performance Battery) $686
Midsize Tesla Model 3 Standard Range Plus $385
Full size Tesla Model S Long Range $455
Small station wagon Chevrolet Bolt EV and Kia Soul EV (120 Ah) $463
Standard SUV Tesla Model X Long Range Plus $517
Minivan Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid $1,187

Find more ways to save

There are two vehicle costs that typically eat at your wallet the most: gas and auto insurance.

If you’re taking the steps to save on gas, try shopping around to see where you can save on auto insurance too.

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RATESDOTCA Team

The RATESDOTCA editorial team are experienced writers focused on sharing stories and bringing you the latest news in insurance and personal finance. Our goal is to provide Canadians with the information and resources they need to make better insurance and financial decisions.

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