How far your car can go on a gallon of gas largely depends on how powerful the engine is. If you want to save money on gas, you should look at cars with low horsepower engines.
Nevertheless, these vehicles will reach just as many miles per gallon as their more powerful rivals. Making them a great choice if you’re trying to stay within your monthly budget. While also driving to work or school every day.
However, the following list details the 26 best low horsepower cars. That will help you save money at the pump and make your drive much easier and more pleasant!
1. 2019 Toyota Yaris Sedan L (M6)
Toyota introduced the redesigned 2019 Toyota Yaris Sedan L, which is the latest addition to their ever-growing sedan lineup.
The redesign of the 2019 Toyota Yaris Sedan L includes a new 1.8liter inline four-cylinder engine. That puts out 106 horsepower and 103 lb-ft of torque.
Moreso, this powertrain is coupled with a six-speed manual transmission or an available continuously variable transmission (CVT).
The CVT will be standard on all models, and those who opt for it will get to enjoy it. The benefits of fuel economy improvements up to 25 percent over the outgoing model.
2. 2019 Honda Civic LX (M6) Sedan
You’re looking at a 2019 Honda Civic LX sedan with a four-cylinder engine and six-speed manual transmission. The engine is rated at 160 horsepower, giving you plenty of oomph to get up and go when needed.
Moreover, it still gets great gas mileage: 31 mpg city and 42 mpg highway. That’s a lot better than the EPA ratings for the 2018 model, which was 28/37 miles per gallon city/highway.
Also, the standard features of the Honda Civic LX include power windows, remote keyless entry, and steering wheel-mounted audio controls. A five-inch display screen in the instrument cluster. That gives you access to infotainment features like Bluetooth pairing and smartphone integration.
Lastly, satellite radio options and voice recognition software lets you send text messages without having to take your eyes off the road or your hands off the steering wheel. There are also USB ports that let you plug in your phone to charge while driving.
3. 2019 Chevrolet Malibu L
One of the best low horsepower cars on the market is the 2019 Chevrolet Malibu LT. This car offers a fuel-efficient engine and great features like wireless phone charging and heated seats. The Malibu is also available in four trims: L, LS, 1SV, and 2SV.
Moreso, the standard features include air conditioning, power windows, cruise control, keyless entry, and an eight-speaker sound system. There are optional extras as well, such as leather upholstery and a heated steering wheel.
4. 2019 Volkswagen Passat Wolfsburg Edition
The 2019 Volkswagen Passat Wolfsburg Edition is a great option if you’re looking to save money on gas. The V6 engine has a 1.4L turbocharged four-cylinder engine that has 174 HP, which delivers decent fuel economy.
Moreso, the vehicle’s interior is spacious and inviting, with amenities like push-button start and dual-zone climate control. Plus, the infotainment system offers gesture control, Bluetooth phone integration, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility for your smartphone needs.
5. 2019 Ford Fusion S FWD
If you’re looking to save some money at the pump, the 2019 Ford Fusion is a good choice. It has a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine gives it enough power while still being fuel-efficient.
Nevertheless, the Fusion also comes with EcoBoost technology and Start/Stop tech, which makes it even more economical by shutting off when you come to a stop. And turning back on again when you start driving again.
Moreso, it’s also worth noting that this car has one of the lowest sticker prices of any car in its class. So if you’re looking for something cheap but high quality, this could be it!
6. 2019 Subaru Legacy 2.5i
If you’re looking for a reliable low horsepower car to take you back and forth from work. You might want to consider the 2019 Subaru Legacy 2.5i. It’s low in power but will save you a lot of money in gas over time.
Therefore, you’ll also get great safety features like forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The trunk is spacious enough to fit your groceries or luggage from the airport.
Nevertheless, if you have any trouble with it, there are plenty of dealerships nearby to take care of it. So the wait time won’t be too long.
7. 2019 Hyundai Sonata Eco (DCT)
Expect to save at least $1,500 per year in gas costs with the 2019 Hyundai Sonata Eco (DCT). The EPA estimates that this car will get 27 MPG in the city and 34 MPG on the highway. Plus, it has a turbocharged 2.0liter four-cylinder engine that can produce 181 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque.
Also, we love its rearview camera, automatic emergency braking, lane change assistance, and blind spot monitoring system.
8. 2019 Nissan Altima 2.5 S FWD
Nissan is one of the trusted low horsepower cars brands, and this vehicle has a lot of great features. The roominess of the inside is one of the best things about it. It also gets good gas mileage for a low horsepower car.
Nevertheless, another benefit is that it’s affordable and easy to maintain. The Nissan Altima 2.5 S standard features include power locks, remote keyless entry, and stability control. And an AM/FM radio with a CD player.
Moreso, some optional features include a navigation system, leather upholstery, a panoramic moonroof with a sunshade package, and heated front seats.
9. Kia Optima LX (A6)
The Kia Optima LX is a low horsepower car with a six-speed automatic transmission and gasoline engine. This car has a fuel economy rating of 25 miles per gallon in the city. 35 miles per gallon on the highway and 29 miles per gallon combined.
Moreover, it can seat five people and weighs 3,340 pounds. The Kia Optima LX starts at $20,995. The standard features of the Kia Optima LX include Bluetooth, a USB port, an auxiliary input jack, and keyless entry.
Also, power windows and locks, anti-theft system (engine immobilizer), cruise control, and air conditioning with dual climate control (front and rear). Daytime running lights (DRL), fog lamps (included), and 16-inch aluminum alloy wheels. Moreso, you can add 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels or 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels, which will raise the price of the car.
10. Daihatsu Cuore L60
If you are looking for a low horsepower car, then the Daihatsu Cuore L60 is an excellent choice. This car has a 0.6-liter engine that only needs 4 liters of gas per 100 kilometers. It has a five-speed manual transmission and can reach speeds of up to 130 km/h.
Therefore, the cabin offers ample space to accommodate four adults with enough legroom and headroom in the front seats and back seats. It also has a central armrest with storage space in the back seat.
Nevertheless, if you need to park it in tight spaces, this vehicle will have no problem parking due to its small size at 3 meters wide by 2 meters high by 5 meters long.
11. Fiat Panda S
Fiat has been making cars since 1899, and the Panda S is one of their most popular models. This car is perfect for getting around town or driving to work. But it also has enough power to travel at highway speeds when needed.
However, one of the great things about this car is that it comes with a five-year warranty. And it’s so affordable. You can find these cars starting at $10,000, making it an even better deal than ever!
12. Fiat Panda CL
The car with the lowest horsepower is the Fiat Panda CL. It has a 1.2 liter 3 cylinder engine and is capable of going up to 118 miles per hour. The Fiat Panda CL is also very affordable, costing about $13,000.
Nevertheless, another low horsepower car worth mentioning is the Mazda 2 hatchback. It has a 2 liter 4 cylinder engine and can go up to 130 miles per hour. But it’s a little more expensive than the Fiat Panda CL at around $16,000.
Lastly, the Honda Fit Sport offers great gas mileage and low prices, starting at $15,800 for a 2008 model. With only 84 horsepower.
13. Fiat Panda 30 L
Looking to save some money on gas? The best way to do so is by buying a car with low horsepower. The Fiat Panda has a 30 L engine that can help you save some money.
Also, It has a 0-60 time of under 10 seconds and gets up to an average of 45 MPG. The Mazda3 might be the perfect match for you if you’re looking for something sporty.
14. Innocenti Small 500 Cat
This Innocenti Small 500 Cat is a two door, two seat vehicle. That has a 50cc engine and seating for up to four people. It has a top speed of 37 miles per hour and can reach 60 miles per hour in 16 seconds.
However, it’s designed to be an economical car. So it has great fuel efficiency with a range of 400 kilometers from the tank. The price ranges from $1,000-$2,000, depending on the car’s condition.
Also, if you’re looking for some good low horsepower cars that are also affordable, this Innocenti Small 500 Cat is one to consider!
15. Fiat Cinquecento
The Fiat Cinquecento is a small, five-door hatchback car. That has a 1.0L 3-cylinder engine and a four-speed manual transmission. This car was manufactured by the Italian manufacturer Fiat and was first produced in 1982.
Nevertheless, this is a popular choice of the car because it has an affordable price and it offers high fuel efficiency. Due to its compact size, the Fiat Cinquecento can easily maneuver through tight spaces, making this car ideal for driving in cities or crowded areas.
Moreso, the vehicle’s exterior has sleek body lines with curved edges, giving it an aerodynamic appearance. The seats are made from vinyl material, and some headrests come standard with the vehicle. To provide extra protection during collisions.
16. Citroën 2 CV Club
This car is one of the low horsepower cars you can buy. It has a mere 45 horsepower, so it will not be fast or luxurious.
Also, you might think that this means you’ll get terrible gas mileage and have to stop every few miles. But that is not the case. This car can go 40 miles per gallon, which is pretty impressive considering its tiny engine size.
Nevertheless, this car was created in 1948 when gas was less than 10 cents per gallon. It was originally designed as an affordable way to get around. Back then, people were willing to trade off comfort and speed to save money on gas costs.
17. Daihatsu Cuore
To save money on gas, it’s important to know what cars can really get the job done without breaking the bank. Daihatsu Cuore is one of the best low horsepower cars. That will not only get you where you need to go without a headache.
Also, the process won’t cost you an arm and a leg. One of the best features of this vehicle is that it is easy to maintain with minimal repairs needed throughout its lifetime.
Lastly, you’ll also be able to save money using regular-grade gasoline, not the premium grade. The fuel efficiency rating for this car is 34 miles per gallon on highways and 33 miles per gallon on city driving.
18. BMW 600
BMW is a company that has been around since the last century, and they have kept up with the times. The BMW 600 was introduced in 2007 as one of the low horsepower cars that would be less expensive to drive. And could get better gas mileage than many other cars.
Therefore, it succeeded in both goals and has won awards for being one of the best cars in the market. It may not be flashy or have all the bells and whistles like some luxury cars. But it gets great gas mileage while still looking sleek and modern.
19. Fiat 126
The Fiat 126 is an old car that was produced in Italy from 1973 to 1985. In its time, it was a revolutionary vehicle because it had one of the first-ever production computerized control systems. The 126 has a four-cylinder engine that produces 60 horsepower and can speed up to 95 miles per hour.
Also, it has a three-speed automatic transmission. Which helps make it more fuel efficient than most other cars with lower horsepower ratings. The Fiat 126 is also very small, making it easy to park and maneuver through tight spaces.
20. Reva G-Wiz L-ion
It’s not flashy, and it’s not powerful. But the Reva G-Wiz Lion is one of the low horsepower cars that can save you money. This three-wheeled electric vehicle can go up to 100 miles per day before it needs a recharge.
However, you’ll pay less at the pump with this car than you would with any other gas-powered vehicle, even if your daily commute is over 20 miles roundtrip. You’ll save money daily using this car instead of an SUV or pickup truck.
Lastly, the G-Wiz L-ion doesn’t have all the bells and whistles of a luxury sedan. But if you’re looking to get by without spending too much money. This is the perfect low horsepower cars for you.
21. Reva G-Wiz i
If you’re looking to save money on gas, a low horsepower car may be the best way to do so. The most popular options are electric cars and hybrids. Hybrids combine gas and electricity, while electric cars only use electricity.
However, there are some downsides to these types of cars, like the lack of power in an electric car. Or the price tag associated with a hybrid. But there are many great benefits as well:
Nevertheless, Electric cars have much less maintenance than regular cars, plus they don’t produce emissions that can cause air pollution. Hybrids produce fewer emissions than regular gas-powered vehicles and maintenance is about the same as that of normal vehicles.
Also, with a total power output of 16 BHP. The Reva G-Wiz I takes fifth place in our list of low horsepower cars. It’s also ranked first for efficiency in its class at up to 270 miles per gallon equivalent (mpge).
However, it does come with some drawbacks. As an electric car, it doesn’t have much power behind it if your driving requires quick acceleration. And if you need more space than a small city car provides, this might not be the right option for you either.
Also, it has a pretty high purchase price compared to other low horsepower models on our list. But considering how long it’ll last and how cheap it will run once purchased. It might just make sense to buy one of these little guys!
22. Peugeot 106 Electrique
A long time ago, the Peugeot 106 was one of the most popular cars in France. This means that there are still many of them around, and you can find one cheaply. The problem is that they were never really designed to be electric.
Therefore, it’s not easy to convert them to run on electricity. But as luck would have it, someone has done the hard work for you and developed an aftermarket conversion kit, allowing you to convert your old Peugeot 106 into an electric car. Nevertheless, all this kit requires is an installation by an experienced mechanic and some basic hand tools.
23. BMW Isetta 300
If you’re looking for one of the low horsepower cars with a small engine. But don’t want to compromise when it comes to style and features. The BMW Isetta 300 is one of your best bets.
Moreover, this microcar has been around since 1955 and has been seen in many different forms over the years. The Isetta 300 was redesigned in 2001 and has been updated with modern systems. Such as an air conditioning system, electric windows, and automatic transmission.
Also, with a fuel efficiency of 45 miles per gallon. This is one of the best low horsepower cars on the market.
24. BMW Isetta 250
This is one of the best low horsepower cars because it has a top speed of 45 miles per hour, which is well below the national speed limit. This makes it so that you can save money on gas.
Therefore, you won’t be going fast enough to use as much fuel. Plus, this car only weighs 1,200 pounds. So you’ll also be saving money because your vehicle will weigh less and require less fuel.
Lastly, you can also purchase these second-hand cars without spending much money. And they’re extremely easy to fix if anything goes wrong with them.
25. Renault Twizy 45
In the United States, gas prices currently average around $2.75 per gallon. While it’s possible to find some stations selling gasoline at a lower price than that. Many people are looking for ways to minimize their fuel expenses.
Nevertheless, purchasing a car with low horsepower is one way to do this. The Renault Twizy 45 falls into this category and should be considered by anyone looking to save money on gas.
However, the Renault Twizy 45 offers an eco-friendly alternative to many of today’s cars. Combining a simple design with little need for gasoline or oil changes.
Moreso, this makes it an ideal vehicle for new drivers who want lower operating costs and senior citizens who may not have the ability or desire to maintain their cars any longer.
26. 2019 Volkswagen Jetta S w/SULEV (M6)
It’s no secret that gas prices are currently at a record high. If you’re looking to keep more money in your pocket. It might be time to consider buying a car with low horsepower.
Therefore, the 2019 Volkswagen Jetta S w/SULEV (M6) is one of the best low horsepower cars out there. And it’s still equipped with all the features you’ll need to get around town. Here are some of its key features; It has 16-inch aluminum wheels with disc brakes.
Then, the interior seats up to five passengers. A color touchscreen multimedia display keeps you entertained while driving. You can buy heated seats or rain-sensing wipers as options!
Conclusion
When it comes to saving money on gas, one of the easiest ways to do so is by purchasing the right car. Choosing the right low horsepower cars will ensure you get the best gas mileage.
Also, you’re not spending more on fuel than you need to be spending. When selecting your next vehicle, consider these six best low horsepower cars for saving money on gas!
