These Are The Least Expensive And Most Fuel-Efficient New Cars And SUVs
Welcome to the "30/30 club:" 22 new vehicles that start at less than $30,000 and garner fuel economy of 30 mpg or more..
- The '30/30 club' comprises 22 models with a base MSRP under $30,000 and EPA-combined fuel economy of 30 mpg or better.
- Hybrids dominate the list, including the Toyota Corolla Hybrid (starting ~$23,500, 50 mpg combined) and the Honda Civic Hybrid (~$25,000, 47 mpg).
- Only a handful of purely gasoline-powered vehicles make the cut, such as the Mitsubishi Mirage (~$17,000, 36 mpg) and the Nissan Versa (~$16,000, 32 mpg).
- The average transaction price for a new car in the US has surpassed $48,000 (June 2026 data), making the 30/30 club increasingly rare.
- Nearly half of the 22 models are from Japanese automakers, reflecting their long-standing focus on fuel efficiency and value.
Frequently Asked Questions
The 30/30 club refers to new cars and SUVs with a starting price under $30,000 and EPA-combined fuel economy of 30 miles per gallon or more. Forbes identified 22 models that qualify in 2026.
Notable examples include the Toyota Corolla Hybrid (50 mpg, ~$23,500), Honda Civic Hybrid (47 mpg, ~$25,000), Mitsubishi Mirage (36 mpg, ~$17,000), and Nissan Versa (32 mpg, ~$16,000). The list spans sedans, hatchbacks, and small SUVs.
Yes, a few small SUVs make the cut, such as the Hyundai Kona (up to 30 mpg combined with the base engine) and the Subaru Crosstrek (30 mpg with the 2.0L engine). However, most 30/30 entries are compact or subcompact cars.
Yes, because new car prices keep rising and automakers are shifting focus to larger, more profitable trucks and EVs. The average new car now costs over $48,000, making affordable fuel-efficient models increasingly rare.
No EVs currently qualify because the cheapest new EV (like the Chevy Bolt) starts above $30,000 after recent price cuts, though it remains close. The 30/30 club is dominated by hybrids and small gas cars.
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Original source
www.forbes.com
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