7 Gas-Powered Cars That Are Cheaper Than EVs in 2026
There are many appealing benefits to electric vehicles, but going electric isn't right for everyone. Electric vehicles (EVs) have some drawbacks when it comes to charging availability and cold weather, plus they can cost more to purchase than some gas-powered vehicles.
According to MotorTrend, the Nissan Leaf is the most affordable 2026 EV available, starting at $31,485. It's followed by the Fiat 500e at $32,495 and the Hyundai Kona Electric at $34,470. We shopped the new car lineup for 2026 and found these seven gas-powered cars that are cheaper than EVs.
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2026 Kia K4
MSRP: $23,385 to $29,985
The compact 2026 Kia K4 is available as both a sedan and a hatchback, according to Car and Driver. It gets a combined 29 to 34 miles per gallon (mpg), and its five seats make it spacious enough for families.
Car and Driver explained that the rear seat is comfortable enough for even a long ride, and the trunk has plenty of storage space for luggage. While the K4 is available with plenty of features, Car and Driver found that the base engine lacked power.
2026 Nissan Sentra
MSRP: $23,845 to $29,235
According to Car and Driver, the 2026 Nissan Sentra features new interior and exterior styling plus upgraded technology, all available at an affordable price. It's available in four trims and features 14 cubic feet of cargo capacity, making it a versatile choice.
Safety features like adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning come standard. However, Car and Driver found the Sentra's 149-horsepower four-cylinder engine to be lacking in power.
2026 Hyundai Elantra
MSRP: $23,870 to $31,045
The 2026 Hyundai Elantra is classified as a compact car, but Car and Driver praised its roomy cabin. It's available in eight trims, including three hybrid trims. The vehicle has generous passenger space, as well as 14 cubic feet of cargo space, so it's a solid option for families and travel. The Elantra is available only with front-wheel drive.
2026 Toyota Corolla
MSRP: $24,120 to $30,335
Car and Driver called the 2026 Toyota Corolla "quite fuel efficient," and the non-hybrid Corolla should get 35 mpg combined. It's available in 10 trims, including hybrid trims, and features an overall sleek and safe design. The Corolla has 13 cubic feet of cargo capacity and five seats, so it's a versatile choice for daily driving. It's available in all-wheel drive or front-wheel drive, though Car and Driver called the powertrains "unrefined" and the handling "bland."
2026 Mazda 3
MSRP: $24,550 to $36,740
Edmunds gave the 2026 Mazda 3 a 7.2 rating out of 10, praising the vehicle's high-quality interior and comparing it to the interior of some luxury vehicles. Highlights include a standard eight-speaker audio system, comfortable and supportive seats, a clean interface and a combined 29 mpg.
The Mazda 3 is available as a sedan or a hatchback, plus you can opt for all-wheel drive and a turbocharged engine. While there's a lot to like about this vehicle, it lacks cargo space and the back seat has mediocre legroom.
2026 Subaru Impreza
MSRP: $26,595 to $29,495
According to Edmunds, the 2026 Subaru Impreza is a sensible small car, though it does lack acceleration. The vehicle features a roomy seating and cargo area and is equipped with many driver-assist features. All-wheel drive is also standard on this vehicle, and this hatchback is available in a Sport and RS trim level. The base engine gets an estimated combined 29 mpg, so although it may not be the flashiest vehicle, it's a practical and affordable option.
2026 Honda Civic
MSRP: $24,695 to $32,495
The 2026 tops Edmund's ranking of the best economy small hatchbacks for 2026-2027. Edmunds gave it a 7.9 out of 10, praising its comfortable ride, roomy interior and fuel efficiency. It's available in five trim options, including two hybrid trims, and the base model gets a combined 36 mpg fuel economy.
The car hasn't undergone any major changes in 2026, and features the roomy seating and user-friendly tech features that have made previous models a popular choice.
This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal or tax advice.
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