© Hyundai Motor America
Most Fuel-Efficient Cars
The number of all-electric vehicles available in the U.S. has dramatically increased in the last few years, more than doubling since 2020. According to the U.S. EPA, the 25 most fuel-efficient vehicles in America now only use electrons — none burn gasoline. American may still be on the fence about purchasing new EVs, but with the price of fuel continuing to climb, these alternative-fuel vehicles are looking more attractive with every price increase at the pump. Like gas-powered vehicles, the efficiency of electric vehicles covers a wide range. Here are the 25 most fuel-efficient cars in America, listed in order of MPGe combined rating. MPGe is “miles per gallon equivalent, based on how far a vehicle can travel on 33.7 kWh — the equivalent to the power produced by a gallon of gasoline, according to the EPA. Note: Many of these models have multiple trim levels; we only list the most fuel efficient of each model line.
© Audi of America
25. 2022 Audi e-Tron GT
Starting MSRP: $102,400
MPGe (city / hwy / combined): 81 / 83 / 82
Range: 238
A new all-electric, high-performance grand tourer, the 2022 Audi e-tron GT quattro is one of the sexiest electric cars on the market, designed to take on top electric performance sedans. Power comes from two electric motors — one at the front axle and one at the rear axle. The front motor produces 235 horsepower, while the rear motor generates 429 horsepower for a rear-biased total system output of 469 horsepower (up to 522 horsepower in overboost mode) and 464 lb-ft of torque (472 lb-ft with overboost). The e-tron GT will accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 3.9 seconds and has a top track speed of 152 mph.
© Volvo Cars North America
24. 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge Twin
Starting MSRP: $51,700
MPGe (city / hwy / combined): 92 / 79 / 84
Range: 233
Volvo’s first all-electric car, the XC40 Recharge is based on the popular XC40 premium small crossover, built on a Compact Modular Architecture co-developed within the Geely Group. The XC40 Recharge is powered by an electric all-wheel-drive powertrain with total system output of 408 horsepower. According to Volvo, the XC40 can be recharged to 80 percent capacity in 40 minutes using a fast-charging system. The XC40 Recharge was the first Volvo equipped with a new infotainment system powered by the Android operating system, which offers personalization, improved intuitive operation and new Google technology and services such as Google Assistant, Google Maps and Google Play Store.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
23. 2022 BMW iX xDrive 50
Starting MSRP: $83,200
MPGe (city / hwy / combined): 86 / 85 / 86
Range: 324
The all-new BMW iX introduces a new look for the company’s crossovers with a futuristic take on BMW’s traditional kidney grille and twin headlights. The full LED headlights are the slimmest ever used on a vehicle from the German automaker, integrating with the large grille and flowing smoothly into the sculpted hood. The iX features fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology that incorporates two electric motors, a high-voltage battery and improved charging technology. With an electric motor for front and for rear wheels, the system has total output of 516 horsepower and 564 lb-ft of torque. Inside, the BMW iX has a high-tech look centered around one large, curved display that seems to float away from the dashboard.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
22. 2022 Volvo C40 Recharge Ultimate
Starting MSRP: $58,750
MPGe (city / hwy / combined): 94 / 80 / 87
Range: 226
The first model in Volvo’s history to be designed and produced exclusively as an electric vehicle, the compact C40 Recharge updates Volvo style with a solid grille flanked by high-tech headlights that incorporate advanced pixel technology. The 2022 Volvo C40 Recharge is powered by dual electric motors for a total output of 402 horsepower driving all four wheels. According to Volvo, the C40 Recharge will accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds. The C40 Recharge comes fully loaded with a 9-inch vertical touchscreen display, a 12-inch driver display, heated front and rear seats, a Harmon Kardon premium audio system, a heated steering wheel, wireless smartphone charging, a power liftgate and 20-inch Graphite Diamond Cut aluminum wheels.
© Mazda North American Operations
21. 2022 Mazda MX-30
Starting MSRP: $33,470
MPGe (city / hwy / combined): 98 / 85 / 92
Range: 100
The first battery-electric vehicle from Mazda, the MX-30 is powered by a 107-kW electric motor delivering 143 horsepower and 200 lb-ft of torque to the front wheels. Electricity is stored in a 35.5-kWh lithium-ion battery for a range of 100 miles — a rather disappointing number compared with other similar-size vehicles available today. A compact crossover design, the MX-30 expands Mazda’s KODO design philosophy and includes the familiar Mazda wing grille and sculpted headlights. A unique feature is the small rear-hinged rear doors that allow access to the interior without a center post. Currently the MX-30 is only for sale in California, with a limited number expected to be available.
© Audi of America
20. 2022 Audi Q4 e-tron quattro
Starting MSRP: $49,900
MPGe (city / hwy / combined): 100 / 89 / 95
Range: 241
Audi added to its electric car lineup this year with the 2022 Q4 50 e-tron, a full-electric option in the entry luxury segment. Similar in size to the popular Q5, the Q4 is powered by dual electric motors creating an electric quattro all-wheel-drive system. Total output is rated at 295 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque — good enough to accelerate to 60 mph in under 6 seconds. Like other models in the Audi stable, the Q4 e-tron comes well equipped with the latest advanced safety features as well as a high-tech premium interior.
© Genesis
19. 2023 Genesis GV60 Advance
Starting MSRP: $58,890
MPGe (city / hwy / combined): 103 / 86 / 95
Range: 248
The Hyundai Group’s premium brand, Genesis joins the electric vehicle fray with the all-new GV60 luxury crossover. With styling that evolves the familiar Genesis signature Crest Grille and headlight/taillight style, the GV60 features sleek lines with large wheels and bulging surfaces. Inside is a unique Crystal Sphere that sets the mood for the cabin and functions as the gear selector. All Genesis GV60 variants feature a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system that delivers 314 horsepower and 446 lb-ft of torque. With a rapid charging system, the GV60 can be replenished from 10 to 80 percent in less than 20 minutes.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
18. 2022 Mercedes-Benz EQS 450+
Starting MSRP: $102,310
MPGe (city / hwy / combined): 97 / 97 / 97
Range: 350
The first full-electric luxury sedan from Mercedes-Benz, the 2022 Mercedes-EQ EQS shares the same level of luxury expected from an S-Class but on a new EV architecture. The 2022 Mercedes-EQ EQS is initially available in two trim levels. The most efficient EQS 450+ features a single electric motor producing 329 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque to drive the rear wheels. According to Mercedes, the 107.8-kWh lithium-ion batteries can reach a full charge in about 11 hours on a Level 2 charger, while a DC fast charger can bring the charge to 80 percent in 31 minutes. A more powerful EQS 580 AWD is available, as is the first AMG performance edition.
© Tesla
17. 2022 Tesla Model X
Starting MSRP: $114,990
MPGe (city / hwy / combined): 107 / 97 / 102
Range: 348
Tesla’s SUV certainly stands out from the crowd in both styling and capability, with impressive performance in both efficiency and acceleration. Featuring aerodynamic styling, innovative Falcon Wing doors and a versatile interior, the Model X is unique within the American crossover market. The Model X Long Range dual-motor all-wheel drive produces 670 horsepower and can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in a mere 3.8 seconds. For those needing a bit more performance, the Model X Plaid with tri-motor all-wheel drive boasts 1020 horsepower will sprint to 60 mph in an astounding 2.5 seconds; it has a top speed of 163 mph.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
16. 2022 Ford Mustang Mach-E RWD
Starting MSRP: $43,895
MPGe (city / hwy / combined): 110 / 96 / 103
Range: 247
Mustang Mach-E marks the first time that Ford has bestowed the legendary Mustang name on an entirely new vehicle segment. While it does carry many styling cues from the pony car, the Mach-E is unlike any Mustang (or any Ford for that matter) — a full-electric 5-passenger crossover and easily one of the most advanced vehicles ever from the Blue Oval. Although available with single or dual motor configurations as well as standard- or extended-range batteries, the Mach-e’s base-level rear-wheel drive-variant is the most efficient with power rated at 266 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. The Mustang Mach-E comes with a long list of standard features and a high-tech premium cabin.
© Mike Meredith, Automotive Content Experience
15. 2022 Polestar 2 Single Motor
Starting MSRP: $48,400
MPGe (city / hwy / combined): 113 / 100 / 107
Range: 270
For many years, the Polestar name had been associated with high-performance Volvo models, but in 2018 the Volvo Car Group announced that Polestar would become its own standalone electrified performance brand, and now offers the stylish Polestar 2. Designed as a 5-door fastback, the Polestar 2 is built on Volvo’s Compact Modular Architecture platform that integrates the battery pack into the floor for improved chassis rigidity, better handling and reductions in noise, vibration and harshness. Although available with single or dual motors, the Polestar 2 single motor is the least expensive and most efficient version, with the electric motor delivering 231 horsepower to the front wheels. A new heat pump is now available that captures residual thermal energy from the drivetrain and uses it to warm the cabin. Polestar estimates this could reduce the draw on the battery by as much as 50 percent in colder climates.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
14. 2022 BMW i4 eDrive40
Starting MSRP: $55,400
MPGe (city / hwy / combined): 109 / 108 / 109
Range: 301
With a design based on the recently updated 4 Series Gran Coupe, the i4 is BMW’s next-generation electric four door but with some key differences. The i4’s signature BMW kidney grille is actually a closed surface since the EV motor requires scant airflow up front for cooling. Instead, the front camera as well as ultrasonic and radar sensors get integrated into the space. Built on a new modular, scalable architecture offering versatility and efficiency, the i4 draws power from BMW’s fifth-generation eDrive system, which encompasses the electric motors, power electronics, charging system and high-voltage battery. The i4 eDrive40 is rear-wheel drive with a single electric motor delivering 335 horsepower (a more powerful dual motor eDrive50 is also available).
© BMW USA
13. 2022 MINI Cooper SE
Starting MSRP: $34,225
MPGe (city / hwy / combined): 119 / 100 / 110
Range: 114
The all-electric MINI Cooper SE is easily distinguished from other versions by its yellow trim, available unique wheels, E badges and solid grille surface. For 2022 the MINI Cooper SE receives new front and rear bumpers, a new grille, new front fender trim, Piano Black exterior trim and a Multitone roof. Inside, SE sports a new steering wheel, a new center instrument design with an 8.8-inch screen, and a heated steering wheel. Featuring an electric motor generating 181 horsepower and 199 lb-ft of torque, the Cooper SE will accelerate to 60 mph in a hair under 7 seconds — only a tick slower than the gas-powered MINI Cooper S — and has a top speed limited to 93 mph. Power for the motor comes from a high-voltage battery consisting of 12 modules of lithium-ion cells rated at 32.6 kWh.
© Nissan North America
12. 2022 Nissan Leaf (40kW pack)
Starting MSRP: $27,400
MPGe (city / hwy / combined): 123 / 99 / 111
Range: 149
Introduced in 2010, the Nissan LEAF was one of the first mainstream electric vehicles sold in America. The LEAF underwent a redesign for 2018 with a fresh look including a roomier interior as well as better performance and efficiency. For 2022 Nissan LEAF is offered in five versions: LEAF S, SV, S Plus, SV Plus and LEAF SL Plus. LEAF S and SV are powered by a high-response 110 kW AC synchronous electric motor producing 147 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque. Power is supplied by a 40 kWh laminated lithium-ion battery that can add almost 90 miles of driving range after 30 minutes on a DC fast charge. Nissan also offers the LEAF Plus, which increases the range to 226 miles and sports a more powerful 214-horsepower motor.
© Volkswagen of America
11. 2022 Volkswagen ID.4 Pro
Starting MSRP: $41,230
MPGe (city / hwy / combined): 121 / 102 / 112
Range: 280
At the 2016 Paris Motor Show, Volkswagen introduced the first I.D. electric vehicle concept — a first look at a range of EVs from the company, followed by a series of concepts in subsequent years. In fall 2021, ID.4 debuted as the first production model: a small crossover aimed directly at the U.S. market delivering utility and performance in a modern package. The ID.4 is available in two trim levels: Pro and Pro S, powered by a rear-mounted AC permanent-magnet synchronous motor producing 201 horsepower and 228 lb-ft of torque. Both the ID.4 Pro and Pro S are also available in all-wheel-drive configuration with a second front-mounted motor producing 107 horsepower and 119 lb-ft of torque for a total combined output of 295 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque.
© Kia America
10. 2022 Kia Niro Electric
Starting MSRP: $39,990
MPGe (city / hwy / combined): 123 / 102 / 112
Range: 239
Kia offers the Niro as a hybrid and plug-in hybrid, with the Niro EV added as a 2019 model. This compact crossover is powered by a 150 kW electric motor that produces 201 horsepower and 291 lb-ft of torque delivered to the front wheels. A standard DC fast charger can recharge approximately 100 miles of range in 30 minutes and 80 percent total battery capacity in 75 minutes. Full recharge at a 7.2 kWh Level 2 charger will take approximately 9.5 hours — easily done overnight. Look for an all-new 2023 Niro to arrive in showrooms later this year.
© Hyundai Motor America
9. 2022 Hyundai IONIQ 5 SE Standard Range
Starting MSRP: $39,950
MPGe (city / hwy / combined): 132 / 98 / 114
Range: 303
The 2022 Hyundai IONIQ 5 is the first model built on Hyundai’s Electric-Global Modular Platform, which features a new dedicated battery-electric vehicle architecture. The spacious IONIQ 5 rides on a 118-inch wheelbase that is longer than the larger Palisade SUV, but the length is shorter than Tucson. The IONIQ 5 can be configured with a single motor driving the rear wheels, or with dual-motor all-wheel-drive. Rear-drive versions make 168 horsepower with the standard range battery; upgrading to an extended-range battery increases output to 225 horsepower. Not only does the base trim offer a range of more than 300 miles, this new model features an ultra-fast 800-volt charging capacity with the ability to charge from 10 to 80 percent in less than 20 minutes.
© General Motors
8. 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV
Starting MSRP: $33,500
MPGe (city / hwy / combined): 125 / 104 / 115
Range: 247
This year Chevrolet added the larger Bolt EUV electric crossover with a name derived from Electric Utility Vehicle. Larger and bolder than the Bolt EV, the Bolt EUV has a roomier interior including 3 inches of additional rear-seat legroom. Bolt EUV is powered by the same drivetrain as the Bolt EV, sporting an electric motor producing 200 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque delivered to the front wheels. Bolt EUV is the first Chevrolet model to offer Super Cruise: General Motors’ hands-free driver assistance technology for enabled roads. The interior features an 8-inch reconfigurable color driver display and a 10.2-inch center infotainment touchscreen that includes real-time vehicle displays.
© Mike Meredith, Automotive Content Experience
7. 2022 Kia EV6 Light
Starting MSRP: $40,900
MPGe (city / hwy / combined): 136 / 100 / 117
Range: 232
The EV6 crossover is an all-new electric vehicle and Kia’s first dedicated electric model. A compact 5-seater, the EV6 is built on the Korea-based automaker’s new electric-global modular platform. The EV6 is the first new model of the company’s Plan S electrification strategy to produce 11 new electric models globally by 2026. Available with rear or all-wheel drive (single or dual motor), the most efficient of the lineup is the EV6 Light which features a single motor producing 167 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Inside, the EV6 offers a modern, eco-friendly interior with extensive use of recycled plastic, synthetic vegan leather surfaces for some trims, LED lighting and slim front seats to maximize rear-seat room.
© Tesla
6. 2022 Tesla Model S Dual Motor
Starting MSRP: $99,990
MPGe (city / hwy / combined): 124 / 115 / 120
Range: 405
A unique alt-fuel vehicle in the American marketplace, the Model S was the first mainstream Tesla to come to market following the original two-seat Tesla Roadster. For many years, the Model S stood alone as the only electric-powered luxury performance sedan in the U.S., offering an impressive driving range in an attractive package. Now one of four models offered by the innovative American car company, the Model S remains the flagship of the lineup. The Model S Dual Motor is both efficient and powerful — total output is 670 horsepower, which will move this luxury sedan to 60 mph in 3.1 seconds. Tesla also offers the Model S Plaid, a vehicle that boasts more than 1000 horsepower and acceleration to 60 mph in less than 2 seconds.
© General Motors
5. 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EV
Starting MSRP: $31,500
MPGe (city / hwy / combined): 131 / 109 / 120
Range: 259
IN 2017 when Chevrolet introduced the Bolt, it was the most affordable all-electric vehicle with a range of more than 200 miles. For 2022 Bolt receives styling updates and new features, and it continues to be powered by the same drivetrain as the previous Bolt: an electric motor producing 200 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque delivered to the front wheels. The 65-kWh lithium-ion battery pack delivers an impressive range for the price. According to Chevrolet, a full charge takes about 7 hours with a Level 2 charger; with standard DC fast charging, 100 miles of range can be added in about 30 minutes.
© Hyundai Motor America
4. 2022 Hyundai Kona Electric
Starting MSRP: $34,000
MPGe (city / hwy / combined): 132 / 108 / 120
Range: 258
The Hyundai Kona has been updated for the 2022 model year, and that includes the Kona Electric which receives a new front-end design. The unique dimpled front panel of the outgoing model has been replaced with a new aerodynamic shape that features a prominent horizontal line below the Hyundai badge, new headlights and new DRLs, as well as an open lower fascia with vents to either side. Kona Electric continues to be powered by a 150-kW electric motor that produces 201 horsepower and 291 lb-ft of torque delivered to the front wheels. Electricity is stored in a high-voltage 64-kWh lithium-ion battery. Kona Electric uses a Level 2 onboard charging system capable of a 7.2 kW rate for rapid recharging. Using a Level 3 fast charger, the battery pack can charge from 10 percent to 80 percent in approximately 47 minutes.
© Tesla Motors
3. 2022 Tesla Model Y Long Range AWD
Starting MSRP: $62,990
MPGe (city / hwy / combined): 126 / 117 / 122
Range: 330
The newest model in the Tesla lineup, the Model Y is the most fuel-efficient crossover sold in America. Smaller than Model X, Model Y offers optional third-row seating and up to seven occupants. The Model Y Long Range with the dual-motor system provides torque to both the front and rear axles for all-wheel-drive capability, and will accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 4.8 seconds. Tesla also offers a Model Y Performance that can sprint to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds. According to Tesla, the Model Y can recharge up to 162 miles in 15 minutes at a Tesla Supercharger location.
© Lucid Motors
2. 2022 Lucid Air Grand Touring AWD
Starting MSRP: $154,000
MPGe (city / hwy / combined): 134 / 126 / 131
Range: 516
Lucid Motors is a new California-based auto company that comes to market with its first offering: the Lucid Motors Air. Engineers at Lucid Motors developed the Air’s electric drivetrain in house and it boasts some impressive stats. The ultra-efficient permanent magnet electric motor is integrated with an inverter, transmission and differential to create a 900V+ drive unit that weighs a mere 161 pounds. Each drive unit generates up to 670 horsepower and almost 3000 lb-ft of torque. The Lucid Motors Air has the looks to match its advanced powertrain, with clean styling up front emphasized by slim headlights and a chrome strip that spans from one corner to the other. While there will be more variants of the Air coming, the current Grand Touring AWD features dual motors with a total of 819 horsepower and a range that surpasses all competition.
© Tesla Motors
1. 2022 Tesla Model 3 RWD
Starting MSRP: $46,990
MPGe (city / hwy / combined): 138 / 126 / 132
Range: 272
The third model to join the Tesla lineup following the Model S and Model X, the Model 3 is the most affordable vehicle from the American car company. With a bold level of standard equipment and sleek styling that befits the rest of the Tesla lineup, the more economical Model 3 is designed for high-volume sales. Although Tesla’s entry vehicle, the Model 3 still comes well equipped with upscale features that include power heated front seats, a premium audio system, Bluetooth connectivity, docking stations for two smartphones, and multiple USB ports. Offered in both rear-wheel drive and dual-motor all-wheel drive versions, the Model 3 RWD offers the highest efficiency while still delivering great performance from its single electric motor that generates 258 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque.
