During the last recession, it wasn't surprising to find used gas-guzzlers clogging dealer lots. Large SUVs, trucks, and older, less fuel-efficient models were being traded in for cheaper, more efficient models. While we hope that scenario doesn't unfold again, gas prices are officially averaging over $4 per gallon in the United States, and prices are on track to increase further. We're not here to dive into the politics of it all. However, we can try our best to ease the pain at the fuel pump.We will always advocate buying used cars to get the best deals, but some folks still prefer to be the first owners. In that respect, here are ten models, each from a different segment, with excellent fuel economy for under $45,000. We'll cover everything from the Toyota Prius to the Ford Ranger, organized from least to most efficient.All fuel economy figures are sourced directly from the Environmental Protection Agency. Other model specs are from the manufacturer. This list is organized from least efficient to most efficient, but each model is in a separate segment and shouldn't be compared directly with the others. Photos may not represent the most efficient trim level. Midsize Pickup: 2026 Ford Ranger Best Combined Fuel Economy: 23 mpg 2025 Ford RangerThe Ford Ranger is our midsize truck of choice for its affordability and efficiency. It even beats the Tacoma's hybrid powertrain (just barely). Midsize trucks are rarely fuel-efficient, but Ford's 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine makes the Ranger an impressive daily driver. Its most efficient trim is the base model, the XL, which comes standard with the most efficient powertrain – a common motif across this list. The unit makes 270 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. That's not a ton of power but is enough to tow up to 7,500 pounds. Plus, the XL trim can hold up to 1,767 pounds in the cargo bed when properly equipped. Sports Car: 2026 Mazda Miata Best Combined Fuel Economy: 29 mpg 2026 Mazda MX-5 It may be difficult to imagine a fuel-efficient sports car, but Mazda pulls it off with the MX-5 Miata. We know it's not the most powerful option out there, but many of our editors and road testers who have had the privilege of driving one would tell you this is still a world-class sports car. The 2026 model is powered by a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter four-cylinder that makes 181 hp and 151 lb-ft of torque. The table above shows that the most efficient trim is the Grand Touring version of the ST variant, which is available with an automatic transmission. For those who want a more engaging experience, the two cheaper trims come with a six-speed manual, which results in slightly lower fuel economy. The MX-5 with a manual transmission starts at $30,430 and gets 26 miles per gallon city, 34 mpg highway, and 29 mpg combined. Midsize SUV: 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid Best Combined Fuel Economy: 36 mpg 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe HybridNow, we move to the truly efficient vehicles. Even though there aren't many efficient trucks or sports cars, the SUV segment has its fair share of hybrid options for cheap. Keeping that in mind, an affordable midsize SUV that doesn't burn through gas too fast is the Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid. This model comes with a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a hybrid system, producing a total of 231 hp and 271 lb-ft of torque. When equipped with front-wheel drive, the SE trim can achieve 36 combined mpg. AWD reduces the figure to 34 mpg. That's not bad for a model that can seat up to seven occupants. Compact Pickup: 2026 Ford Maverick Best Combined Fuel Economy: 39 mpg 2026 Ford MaverickWhat might surprise some people is that the Ford Maverick pickup truck is actually more efficient than some small SUVs. This might be the perfect daily driver for someone who would mostly use it for commuting while only occasionally hauling stuff in the bed. The Maverick is a small city-friendly truck with a standard hybrid engine in most trims. Choosing the XL base model with its 2.5-liter hybrid powerplant means you'd spend at least $28,145 before options. It makes 191 hp and can tow up to 2,000 pounds with FWD. The all-wheel-drive setup is less fuel-efficient, but it can tow 4,000 pounds when properly equipped. Subcompact Crossover: 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid Best Combined Fuel Economy: 42 mpg 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid XSEThe Toyota Corolla Cross is a reasonably priced compact crossover. This model rivals the Honda HR-V and the Hyundai Kona, for reference. While the Corolla Cross is available for cheaper than what's in the chart above, its most efficient trim is the Hybrid S for $29,395. The hybrid variants feature a 2.0-liter inline-4 hybrid system that delivers 196 total horsepower and can tow up to 1,500 pounds. It can reach 42 mpg combined with front-wheel drive. Compact Crossover: 2026 Toyota RAV4 Best Combined Fuel Economy: 43 mpg 2026 Toyota RAV4Although the Corolla Cross is a reasonable choice, the most popular SUV in the United States is the Toyota RAV4. The 2026 model is only available with efficient electrified powertrains – either a regular hybrid or a plug-in. Buyers can get more all-electric range and better MPGe with the PHEV, but the cheapest way to get great fuel economy is with the base LE trim in front-wheel-drive configuration. Premium/Luxury Car: 2026 Lexus UX Best Combined Fuel Economy: 44 mpg 2026 Lexus UX 300h F-SportWe've talked about a handful of affordable mainstream models, but what about those of you who prefer the finer things in life? Lexus offers the UX, which is only available with a hybrid powertrain. Every trim is relatively efficient. The most fuel-efficient version is its base model, the 300h. It rivals the Volvo XC40 and the Alfa Romeo Tonale in terms of luxury, features, pricing, and size. We're particularly fond of the Lexus, though, since it's remarkably reliable and the 300h trim is somewhat affordable for a luxury SUV at just under $37,000. Compact Sedan/Hatch: Honda Civic Hybrid Best Combined Fuel Economy: 49 mpg 2025 - 2026 Honda Civic HybridBuyers can get the Honda Civic as either a sedan or a hatchback. Both options are efficient and affordable. However, we'd choose the sedan variant, since its cheapest hybrid trim level costs less than the hatchback's "Sport Hybrid" trim. Both are powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder hybrid system that produces 200 hp. They're both front-wheel drive and transfer power to the wheels via the two-motor hybrid system. Midsize Sedan: Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Best Combined Fuel Economy: 51 mpg 2024 - 2025 Hyundai Sonata HybridHyundai returns to our list of the most efficient cheap new cars with its midsize sedan: the Sonata. Its most efficient trim is the Blue Hybrid, which produces 191 horsepower with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder with a hybrid system and averages 51 mpg combined when driven normally. It's only available with front-wheel drive, as are the other hybrid trim levels. The Sonata rivals the Toyota Camry and the Honda Accord, but beats both of them in price and miles per gallon. Subcompact Sedan/Hatch: Toyota Prius Best Combined Fuel Economy: 57 mpg 2023 - 2026 Toyota Prius Finally, we have the fuel efficiency champion: the Toyota Prius. Most of you could see this entry coming from a mile away (even if it can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in about seven seconds). Jokes aside, this model has been the best bang for your buck since its original debut. The 2026 model year continues its legacy with the LE base model reaching 57 combined mpg. The plug-in hybrid variant is even more efficient, but we're fans of the regular hybrid for its $28,550 entry price.