Setting out to create a list of the best commuter cars is tougher than it sounds. Although it seems it should be a no-brainer, every driver has a unique idea of what comprises the ideal commuter transport. Suppose your commute involves carpooling. In that case, your definition of a solid commute vehicle will differ from someone whose daily commute means slogging 75 miles by their lonesome from the country into the city. Likewise, if your commute goes from one side of the city to the other, your vehicle preferences will be different from someone who never enters the city at all. We considered such conflicting needs in making our picks, providing commuter solutions for everyone.
Jump ahead to see our list of cars and SUVs for commuters.
- What Commuter Car Factors Did We Consider?
- How Important Are Crash Test Ratings?
- Must-Have Features for a Commuter Car
- Large Cars
- Cars for Carpoolers
- Smaller Cars
- Used Commuter Cars
What Commuter Car Factors Did We Consider?
We considered a mixed bag of needs and preferences to put together our picks for some of the best commuter cars. Consequently, our picks include a wide variety of vehicles, from fully electric (EV) sedans to minivans and pickup trucks. There are hybrids (HEVs), plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), and traditional gasoline models.
We insisted that our picks be safe. Therefore, we only included vehicles with high ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
Although we didn’t set any mileage requirements, most of our picks deliver at least 25 mpg in mixed city-and-highway driving. The commuter cars that don’t deliver at least 25 mpg include a full-size SUV and two minivans. We make our case for each below.
While on the subject of mileage numbers, you will see some fuel economy estimates in MPGe. This is how the government calculates mpg figures for vehicles that, at least in part, run on electric-only propulsion. It stands for miles per gallon equivalent.
RELATED: What is MPGe? Everything You Need to Know
The KBB editors who contributed to our list also voiced opinions on other must-have features. Each adds either to a vehicle’s safety or the driver’s well-being.
How Important Are Crash Test Ratings?
We put a lot of stock in crash-test ratings and scores. If you base your vehicle buying decision on just one factor, we believe it should be safety. Crash test scores are to safety what your credit score is to your creditworthiness. Crash test scores offer a one-stop snapshot of a vehicle’s safetyworthiness.
Although we also look at the government’s crash test ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the IIHS testing protocol provides more extensive information. Consequently, we cite the IIHS ratings here.
The IIHS is a nonprofit organization supported by automotive insurance companies. It performs and scores crash tests and also uses other data and qualifiers to issue its annual Top Safety Pick (TSP) and Top Safety Pick+ (TSP+) awards. Its top score is Good, followed by Acceptable, Marginal, and Poor in the current four testing areas. Those areas are driver-side small overlap front, passenger-side small overlap front, moderate overlap front: new test, and side: new test. Two of these tests were recently adopted by the IIHS, requiring the retesting and rescoring of dozens of current models despite the fact that they remain substantively unchanged. In other words, models that IIHS rated as TSP or TSP+ a year or two ago no longer qualify. The vehicles are every bit as safe as they were when the current generation launched, even though they no longer identify as TSP or TSP+. We chose to retain them among our recommended commuter cars; however, we’ve added “(2024), (2023), or (2022)” after the TSP or TSP+ designation to indicate the IIHS no longer rates them as such.
If you check out the IIHS website, you may find an assortment of tests we didn’t mention. These are older tests that no longer impact the TSP and TSP+ awards.
Must-Have Features for a Commuter Car
Editors contributing to this list most often mentioned the features below when describing their ideal commuter car. Some features are driver aids, some are infotainment features, and the rest are comfort or convenience features. Our picks may not have every one of our must-haves, but each will have many of them.
RELATED: Car Safety Features 101: Everything You Need To Know
Driver Aids and Safety
- Forward collision warning (FCW): Employing cameras, radar, lasers, or some combination of the three, FCW detects cars or other objects in front of your car. As an FCW-equipped vehicle closes in on a detected object and senses a potential collision, the system issues a warning. That warning may be visual, audible, tactile, or some combination of the three.
- Automatic emergency braking (AEB): Often paired with forward collision warning, AEB relies on cameras, radar, sensors, or a combination of the three to identify objects in the vehicle’s path. If the driver fails to apply the brakes, AEB does so. AEB systems are standard or optional on almost every car sold in America. Drivers must remain alert and engaged when using them. According to AAA, the systems face limitations at high speeds.
- Blind-spot monitoring (BSM): A basic blind-spot monitoring system relies on radar or ultrasonic sensors, usually located on both sides of the rear bumper, to keep track of approaching vehicles in neighboring lanes. Carmakers engineered BSM to alert you to vehicles entering the blind spots in your vehicle’s rear-quarter areas.
- Lane departure warning (LDW): A lane departure warning system or lane-keeping assist uses a front-mounted camera to monitor your vehicle’s position in relation to the lane markers (center and side stripes). When it sees the vehicle is veering close to the lane markers on either side, it issues a warning, signaling you to steer back into your lane. More sophisticated systems will also nudge you back into the center of the lane.
- Adaptive cruise control (ACC): Adaptive cruise control uses cameras, radar, and lasers to monitor the surrounding traffic. Once the driver engages ACC and sets the speed, it functions pretty much on its own. It will maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front, slowing and accelerating as necessary. Some systems can bring the vehicle to a full stop if the vehicle in front stops. Others can even automatically release the brake, adding speed corresponding to speed increases of the vehicle in front.
- Surround-view camera: This feature provides a 360-degree bird’s-eye view of your vehicle and the area surrounding it. This feature is a real benefit when parking.
Infotainment Technologies
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration: Once connected to your vehicle’s infotainment system, these popular in-car systems mirror your smartphone’s functionality. Using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, you can stream music, receive messages, make and receive calls, and more. Many smartphone apps will operate through the vehicle’s media system.
- USB ports: The more USB ports, the better for charging devices and integrating them into your vehicle’s infotainment system. Having more than one helps make the commute more manageable and keeps you on the go, including when working out of your car. Providing a more advanced USB-C port is important, as well.
- Power points: Both 12-volt and 115-volt household outlets increase the opportunities to plug in and stay charged.
- An easy-to-use touchscreen: With so many of a vehicle’s systems controlled through the touchscreen, having one that is simple to use reduces stress. The larger, the better.
Comfort and Convenience
- Hard controls: When you are concentrating on driving, having actual knobs and switches versus a touchscreen’s capacitive controls for operating the climate and audio systems requires less time with your eyes off the road.
- Comfy seats: If you spend hours a day planted in a seat behind the wheel, you need that seat to be as comfortable as possible. This not only involves adequate support but multiple adjustments as well.
- Cupholders: Cupholders are a necessity for commuters. You need a place to rest your cup of coffee or bottle of water.
- Automatic climate control: You don’t want to have to continue fussing with your temperature controls to maintain the appropriate temperature. Automatic systems do that for you. If you carpool, you and your passengers will appreciate automatic climate systems with separate settings for your vehicle’s different zones.
- Proximity keyless entry with a push-button start: Include this in the list of features you don’t know you want until you have it. Proximity keyless entry allows you to enter your vehicle without manually unlocking it. The door automatically unlocks if you have the fob on your person.
Best New Commuter Cars
As you run through this list, please keep in mind that there is no real consensus on what the best commuter car looks like. For some, gas mileage is key. Others prioritize vehicle size. For the rest, it’s everything from fun-to-drive handling to semi-autonomous functionality. There is no one-size-fits-all vehicle here.
We’ve split our picks into three categories. First is the best commuter cars for transporting large groups, such as a big vanpool or rideshare where you need three rows of seats. Second, we have the best commuter cars for carpoolers. In the third section, you’ll find our picks for the best commuter cars for small groups of people, whether that’s just you or if you bring along a couple of co-workers.
NOTE: These prices include the factory-to-dealer destination charges.
If your commute includes driving in wintry weather, read our story on the best vehicles for snow to see where the picks overlap. Additionally, look for our article on the best vehicles for short or tall drivers.
Best Commuter Cars for Large Groups
1. 2025 Toyota Sienna
Best Value for Commuters: $40,635 (LE)
Base Price: $40,635 | Expert Rating: 4.7
IIHS Rating: TSP (2024)
Combined Fuel Economy: 36 mpg
If you are looking for excellent space for people and gear, one of the best choices is the Toyota Sienna minivan. In fact, we named it our Minivan Best Buy for 2025. This is an appealing vehicle for carpoolers because of its spacious interior that can seat up to eight people. All 2025 Sienna minivans are hybrids, meaning that no matter which trim level you get, the excellent fuel economy keeps carpooling costs low. And all-wheel drive (AWD) is available for all-season confidence. The Sienna offers a comfortable ride, and all three rows offer excellent legroom.
The base LE model comes nicely equipped with dual power sliding doors, 3-zone climate control, smartphone connectivity, and Toyota Safety Sense 2.0. This suite of safety features includes a blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert, pre-collision with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and more. The Sienna’s 9-inch (12.3-inch is optional) touchscreen is where you can use Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, and there are seven USB ports throughout the cabin.
The jump to the next trim level, the XLE, adds hands-free dual power sliding doors, heated front seats, and other comfort and convenience features, but that also adds nearly $5,000 to the bottom line. Most commuters will be satisfied with the roster of standard features on the LE, but there are additional packages you can add if you want more creature comforts. See Toyota Sienna models for sale near you
2. 2025 Honda Odyssey
Best Value for Commuters: $43,670 (EX-L)
Base Price: $43,670 | Expert Rating: 4.6
IIHS Rating: TSP (2024)
Combined Fuel Economy: 22 mpg
If you like the idea of owning a spacious, reliable 8-passenger minivan but don’t need all-wheel drive, the Honda Odyssey is a terrific choice. Better yet, the EX-L, which is the base model for 2025, is a very well-equipped trim level. Honda Sensing, the company’s suite of driver assistance features, comes standard, as do tri-zone climate control, heated power front seats, smartphone connectivity, a power tailgate, and LED lighting.
All Odysseys come with a 60/40-split Magic Seat third row, where each side can fold flat into the floor to make room for large cargo. And if there are a few carpoolers in your Odyssey that don’t get along, the Magic Slide makes it easy to remove the center seat in the second row, giving them more space on the drive. Magic Slide also allows you to slide the second-row seats from side to side.
If you want the rear-seat camera monitor, front/rear parking sensors, and Wi-Fi hot-spot capability, you can move up to the Touring for about $4,500 more. However, because all of the available safety features come standard, and the EX-L has an impressive roster of connectivity and convenience features, we’d stick with the EX-L. See Honda Odyssey models for sale near you
3. 2025 Kia Carnival
Best Value for Commuters: $42,435 (EX)
Base Price: $38,235 | Expert Rating: 4.5
IIHS Rating: TSP (2023)
Combined Fuel Economy: 21 mpg
Thanks to its somewhat squared-off exterior, the Kia Carnival appeals to SUV buyers. Kia added a hybrid version for 2025, improving combined fuel economy to 33 mpg. Depending on the seat configuration, the Carnival can accommodate either seven or eight. Ideal for carpooling, its sedan-like ride and impressive array of infotainment features will please those along for the ride. Hands-free power-sliding side doors are convenient and standard on all trim levels.
Even in its base LX trim, the Carnival comes with several of our must-have features. An 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto, adaptive cruise control, and keyless entry with push-button start are standard. The bundle of driver aids includes forward collision warning with AEB, blind-spot monitoring with avoidance assist, rear-cross-traffic alert, and lane-keeping assist. Also standard in the LX are lane-following assist and rear-park assist.
We suggest moving up to the EX grade to gain a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, heated front seats, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, and a hands-free power rear liftgate. It also includes a navigation system, satellite radio capability, tri-zone automatic climate control, and Highway Driving Assist 2, which is a semi-autonomous system. It helps the driver steer, accelerate, and brake the vehicle under certain conditions. Front park assist is also included. See Kia Carnival models for sale near you
4. 2025 Ford Explorer
Best Value for Commuters: $41,380 (Active)
Base Price: $41,380 | Expert Rating: 3.9
IIHS Rating: TSP+ (2024)
Combined Fuel Economy: 24 mpg
We like the Ford Explorer for several reasons, not the least of which is that it can seat up to seven, a bonus for carpooling. Plus, even with the base engine, it can tow 5,300 pounds. Ford gave the Explorer a makeover for 2025. All indications are that the updated model will get the IIHS TSP or TSP+ tag of last year’s version, but testing is ongoing.
The base model provides tri-zone automatic climate control, seven USB-C ports, heated power front seats, a 13.2-inch touchscreen, a 12.3-inch driver info display, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, full LED exterior lighting, and the Ford Co-Pilot360 bundle of driver aids. Included are forward collision warning with AEB, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-keeping assist. The base Active trim is so well equipped we’d stay with it. See Ford Explorer models for sale near you
Best Commuter Cars for Carpoolers
1. 2025 Toyota RAV4
Best Value for Commuters: $32,155 (XLE)
Base Price: $30,645 | Expert Rating: 4.6
IIHS Rating: TSP (2023)
Combined Fuel Economy: 30 mpg
In addition to the gas engine available in the RAV4, Toyota also offers an all-wheel-drive hybrid (HEV) and the all-wheel-drive RAV4 PHEV (plug-in hybrid electric vehicle). The estimated mileage for the HEV is 39 mpg combined. For the PHEV, it’s 94 MPGe and 38 mpg once the battery runs dry. It has an electric driving range of 42 miles.
Even in the base LE grade, you score several of our must-have features. For example, an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, adaptive cruise control, and high-beam assist are included. Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 is also standard. It provides forward collision warning with AEB, lane departure warning, lane-tracing assist, and lane-keeping assist.
We’d move up to the XLE. It adds blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, dual-zone automatic climate control, keyless entry with push-button start, and an 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat. See Toyota RAV4 models for sale near you
2. 2025 Subaru Outback
Best Value for Commuters: $34,130 (Premium + Blind-Spot Package)
Base Price: $30,430 | Expert Rating: 4.6
IIHS Rating: TSP (2024)
Combined Fuel Economy: 28 mpg
As does nearly every Subaru, the base Outback provides all-wheel drive as standard. Subaru EyeSight is also included. It features forward collision warning with AEB, lane-centering, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. The base Outback also provides single-zone automatic climate control, a 7-inch screen, and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto.
For commuters, we suggest taking a step up to the Premium trim. Among our must-haves, it adds dual-zone automatic climate control, an 11.6-inch touchscreen, heated front seats, a 10-way power driver’s seat, and Wi-Fi capability.
We would also add the $1,400 OP 13 Package. In addition to blind-spot monitoring, it includes lane-change assist and rear-cross-traffic alert. Keyless entry and a hands-free power liftgate fill out the package. See Subaru Outback models for sale near you
3. 2025 Kia Sportage Hybrid
Best Value for Commuters: $33,985 (Hybrid EX)
Base Price: $30,185 | Expert Rating: 4.6
IIHS Rating: TSP (2024)
Combined Fuel Economy: 43 mpg
Don’t get us wrong; the Kia Sportage would be a great pick for commuters, with a spacious rear seat and a wide range of standard advanced safety and convenience equipment. However, when it comes to commuting, having a vehicle with nearly 600 miles of range is a huge plus. That’s why we recommend the Kia Sportage Hybrid over the regular Sportage.
If maximum range is your biggest X-factor when buying a car, look for the LX. That has an EPA-estimated 589 miles of range. However, we suggest stepping up to the EX. It adds a hands-free tailgate, blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert, Safe Exit Warning, and many more interior upgrades. It also comes with all-wheel drive, which reduces the total range to 521 miles. But we think the additional safety features and upgrades are worth the $3,800 cost and slightly lower range. See Kia Sportage models for sale near you
4. 2025 Honda CR-V Hybrid
Best Value for Commuters: $36,045 (Sport Hybrid)
Base Price: $36,045 | Expert Rating: 4.8
IIHS Rating: TSP (2024)
Combined Fuel Economy: 40 mpg
The Honda CR-V was completely redesigned for 2023. We like it enough to have named it our Compact SUV Best Buy for 2025. This 5-passenger SUV is already known for its reliability, fuel-efficient powertrain choices (including a hybrid), easy-to-use controls, and easily reconfigured interior. With that 2023 makeover, the CR-V is roomier than before, with more rear-seat space and loads of cargo space. The base conventional CR-V LX’s ($31,495) standard features roster includes the Honda Sensing suite of safety features, including collision-mitigating braking, lane-keep assist, road departure mitigation, and adaptive cruise control.
However, commuters will be even happier with the Sport Hybrid, which increases horsepower and the combined fuel economy from 30 mpg to 40 mpg. If most of your commuting is in traffic or around town, you could see fuel economy as high as 43 mpg. We suggest moving over to the Sport Hybrid to gain blind-spot and cross-traffic monitoring, heated front seats (10-way power for the driver), dual-zone automatic climate control, and USB-A and USB-C ports. All-wheel drive is optional. See Honda CR-V models for sale near you
5. 2025 Mazda CX-5
Best Value for Commuters: $31,520 (S Select)
Base Price: $30,190 | Expert Rating: 4.4
IIHS Rating: TSP (2023)
Combined Fuel Economy: 28 mpg
The Mazda CX-5 comes standard with all-wheel drive and is known for its head-turning styling and athletic driving manners.
In its entry-level 2.5 S trim, the CX-5 provides many of our must-have goodies. A 10.25-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, adaptive cruise control, and high-beam assist are all standard. Audio send-and-receive text messaging is also included. We recommend stepping up to the 2.5 S Select to pickup a 6-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, heated front seats, a rear center armrest with cupholders, and dual-zone automatic climate control. Among the standard driver aids are forward collision warning with AEB, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. See Mazda CX-5 models for sale near you
6. 2025 Nissan Rogue
Best Value for Commuters: $30,980 (SV)
Base Price: $29,980 | Expert Rating: 4.3
IIHS Rating: TSP (2023)
Combined Fuel Economy: 33 mpg
Nissan gave the Rogue a mild makeover for 2024. One of the things we appreciate about Nissan models is their wide array of standard advanced safety technologies. For example, every 2025 Rogue comes with automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, high-beam assist, and rear parking sensors with automatic braking.
With the entry-level S trim, you also get an 8-inch touchscreen, a couple of USB ports, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Push-button start and Nissan’s NASA-inspired Zero Gravity front seats are also included. For commuters, we recommend the most popular Rogue SV trim level, which is a $1,000 bump in price. With it, you gain heated outboard mirrors with integrated turn signals, proximity keyless entry, upgraded blind-spot monitoring with lane intervention, adaptive cruise control, lane-centering assist, and more. Also included for SV models is ProPilot Assist, Nissan’s driver-aid system that can automatically accelerate, steer, and brake the Rogue under certain conditions. We think the SV is a bargain, considering all the feature upgrades. See Nissan Rogue models for sale near you
7. 2025 Ford Mustang Mach-E
Best Value for Commuters: $38,490 (Select)
Base Price: $38,490 | Expert Rating: 4.6
IIHS Rating: TSP+
Combined Fuel Economy: 102 MPGe
The Mustang Mach-E is an all-electric crossover SUV that leans on the Mustang nameplate but has very little in common with the iconic pony car. The government estimates its maximum range is up to 320 miles; however, the Select trim we recommend here has an estimated range of 250 miles. Some good news is, Ford lowered the price for 2025.
We are quite happy with the entry-level Select grade as a commuting warrior. It provides an 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and heated outboard mirrors with integrated turn signals. Other standard features are rain-sensing wipers, a windshield de-icer, a 15.5-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, and wireless Android Auto. Wi-Fi capability is also standard.
The standard Ford Co-Pilot360 safety suite includes forward collision warning with AEB, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist with steering assist, and rear cross-traffic alert. Also included are adaptive cruise control, high-beam assist, and rear park assist with automatic rear braking. Ford’s hands-free BlueCruise driving system is available. See Ford Mustang Mach-E models for sale near you
8. 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz
Best Value for Commuters: $31,900 (SEL)
Base Price: $30,200 | Expert Rating: 4.2
IIHS Rating: TSP (2024)
Combined Fuel Economy: 25 mpg
Sometimes, you simply need the utility of a pickup truck. Although the Hyundai Santa Cruz doesn’t provide scads of cargo-box space, it’s ideal for smaller hauling tasks. Furthermore, it has a lockable under-bed storage compartment. It drives like a car, delivers decent fuel economy, and is loaded with standard driver aids. Moreover, it’s as easy to park as a midsize sedan.
The base SE comes relatively well-equipped. It has high-beam assist, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, proximity keyless entry with push-button start, forward collision warning with AEB, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-following assist.
We’d step up to the SEL grade to gain heated outboard mirrors with turn-signal indicators, an 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, heated front seats, and dual-zone automatic climate control. See Hyundai Santa Cruz models for sale near you
9. 2025 Kia Seltos
Best Value for Commuters: $26,585 (S)
Base Price: $26,085 | Expert Rating: 4.7
IIHS Rating: TSP (2022)
Combined Fuel Economy: 31 mpg
A versatile people hauler, the Kia Seltos provides better-than-expected interior space, lots of driver aids, and an impressive warranty. It ranked near the top of our Best Subcompact SUVs for 2025.
The entry-level LX comes relatively well equipped, providing standard all-wheel drive and a wide array of driver aids, including forward collision warning with AEB, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and lane-centering assist. An 8-inch touchscreen, adaptive cruise control, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto are also standard.
Spending an additional $600 for the S grade loses the all-wheel drive. However, you gain proximity keyless entry, automatic climate control, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert with automatic braking. You also get a 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, more USB ports, and automatic climate control. That’s a steal, we say. Oh, and you can add back AWD for $1,500. See Kia Seltos models for sale near you
10. 2025 Volvo EX40
Best Value for Commuters: $53,795 (Core)
Base Price: $53,795 | Expert Rating: Not yet rated
IIHS Rating: Not yet rated
Combined Fuel Economy: 106 MPGe
Volvo changed the nameplate of this model from XC40 Recharge to EX40. Other than typical year-to-year enhancements, it is the same vehicle. If you have an ample budget for your commuter car, consider the fully electric Volvo EX40. Yes, Volvo also sells a gasoline-only XC40. Its base price is about $12,000 less, and it delivers 26 mpg in mixed driving. However, the EX40 has an impressive 106 MPGe fuel economy and, with the addition of the single-motor version, a maximum range of 296 miles.
Based on the price tag, you may be relieved to know the base Core grade has just about every must-have feature on our list, except a semi-autonomous driving system. It includes rain-sensing wipers, keyless entry with push-button start, high-beam assist, dual-zone automatic climate control, and 8-way heated power-adjustable front seats. Also standard is a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, a 9-inch vertical touchscreen, Wi-Fi capability, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto.
Among the driver aids are forward-collision warning with AEB, blind-spot monitoring with steering assist, and rear cross-traffic alert with automatic rear braking. Also included are lane-keeping assist with steering assist, lane departure alert, driver-attention alert, and adaptive cruise control. See Volvo EX40 models for sale near you
Best Commuter Cars for Small Groups
1. 2025 Toyota Prius
Best Value for Commuters: $29,485 (LE)
Base Price: $29,485 | Expert Rating: 4.8
IIHS Rating: TSP+ (2024)
Combined Fuel Economy: 57 mpg
There may be no model that screams “practical commuter car” quite like the Toyota Prius. However, with the newest generation, the Prius adds sportiness and style to its already impressive résumé. The Prius, redesigned for 2023, nets 57 mpg combined while also putting out up to 196 hp. That’s both more fuel-efficient and more powerful—by 75 hp than the previous generation.
Better yet, you can get into the base-model LE and be perfectly happy. It comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone connectivity, six USB ports, and Toyota Safety Sense 3.0. This suite of safety features includes blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure alert with steering assist, automatic high beams, adaptive cruise control, and more. If your commute takes you through cold climates, all-wheel drive is available with every trim level. In addition, the Prius XLE comes standard with heated front seats, so the AWD XLE may be the best trim level for commuters in winter. See Toyota Prius models for sale near you
2. 2025 Toyota Camry
Best Value for Commuters: $29,835 (LE)
Base Price: $29,835 | Expert Rating: 4.8
IIHS Rating: TSP+
Combined Fuel Economy: 51 mpg
For only about $500 more than the Prius, you can get into the new-for-2025 Toyota Camry. The all-new generation of this sedan is hybrid-only and nets combined fuel economy as good as 51 mpg. This sedan is also very roomy and comfortable, with up to 232 hp, and all-wheel drive is available. That’s a terrific value, which is only one of the reasons we named it our 2025 Best Buy Awards Best New Model and the Midsize Car Best Buy.
The base model LE comes very nicely equipped with features like dual-zone climate control, an 8-inch touchscreen, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It also comes standard with the Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 suite, which includes a blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert and safe exit alert, lane departure warning with steering assist, adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and more. If you want to tailor your Camry for all-weather commuting, all-wheel drive is available at every trim level, and heated and ventilated seats are optional, starting with the XLE trim. See Toyota Camry models for sale near you
3. 2025 Honda Accord
Best Value for Commuters: $29,445 (LX)
Base Price: $29,445 | Expert Rating: 4.8
IIHS Rating: TSP+
Combined Fuel Economy: 32 mpg
Honda redesigned the Accord for 2023, and we promptly named it our 2023 Midsize Car Best Buy, and again for 2024. Providing class-leading resale value, a roomy cabin, a smooth ride, and crisp handling, the Accord also comes as a hybrid that delivers 48 mpg in combined driving.
You can go with the entry-level LX and still come away with many of our must-have features. Standard content includes dual-zone automatic climate control, an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Honda Sensing is also included with forward collision warning with AEB, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist with steering assist, and adaptive cruise control. See Honda Accord models for sale near you
4. 2025 Toyota Corolla
Best Value for Commuters: $24,390 (LE + Convenience Package)
Base Price: $23,460 | Expert Rating: 4.5
IIHS Rating: TSP (Sedan) (2024)/(Hatchback) (2023)
Combined Fuel Economy: 35 mpg
Toyota stays busy keeping its strong-selling Corolla current. It received a major refresh for 2023, then got the new FX trim and a 10.5-inch touchscreen option for 2025. Thrust comes from a 169-hp 4-cylinder engine that is satisfyingly fuel efficient. In addition to the popular sedan, offered with a gas engine or as a hybrid, the Toyota Corolla is also available as a hatchback. The hybrid sedan is especially appealing, as it delivers 47 mpg in combined driving.
We appreciate the Corolla for its variety of safety technologies, roomy cabin, and reliability.
In its basic LE trim, the Corolla sedan is well equipped with the full Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 bundle of driver aids. It includes forward collision warning with AEB, lane departure warning with steering assist, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. It also has pre-collision with pedestrian detection, proactive driving assist, and automatic high beams.
The LE also has automatic climate control with a dust and pollen filter, variable windshield wipers, an extra USB port, and an 8-inch touchscreen.
We would then pay another $930 for the Convenience Package. Among other features, it adds blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, remote start, and proximity keyless entry with push-button start. See Toyota Corolla models for sale near you
5. 2025 Honda Civic
Best Value for Commuters: $27,400 (Sport)
Base Price: $25,400 | Expert Rating: 4.7
IIHS Rating: TSP+ (Hatchback)/TSP (Sedan)
Combined Fuel Economy: 36 mpg
One of the best-selling cars in America, the Honda Civic, was totally redesigned for 2022. We were so impressed we named it our Compact Best Car Buy of 2023, 2024, and 2025. Honda also offers the Civic as a hatchback in addition to the popular sedan. Even better, there’s a Civic Hybrid that delivers 49 mpg.
Although the base grade comes with several of our must-have features, we would step up to the Sport. In addition to a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, LED headlights, and single-zone automatic climate control, the EX gets a bunch of other goodies. They include remote start, proximity keyless entry with Walk Away Auto Lock, heated front seats, heated outboard mirrors, and blind-spot monitoring.
Honda Sensing is standard on every Civic. It includes forward collision warning with AEB, lane departure warning, road departure warning with steering assist, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. See Honda Civic models for sale near you
6. 2025 Hyundai Kona
Best Value for Commuters: $27,350 (SEL)
Base Price: $26,000 | Expert Rating: 4.8
IIHS Rating: TSP+
Combined Fuel Economy: 31 mpg
Hyundai totally redesigned its Kona for 2024. We like it so much, we named it our Subcompact SUV Best Buy of 2025. The new generation of Hyundai’s subcompact SUV is larger, more refined, and comes standard with a number of impressive tech and safety features. By the way, Hyundai makes a fully electric Kona version, as well.
The base SE comes standard with high-beam assist, proximity keyless entry, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. Also standard is automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, and lane-keeping assist.
For a measly $1,350 more, you can move up to the SEL, picking up an 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, heated outboard mirrors with integrated turn signals, and dual-zone automatic climate control with rear vents. See Hyundai Kona models for sale near you
7. 2025 Mazda CX-30
Best Value for Commuters: $28,270 (S Select Sport)
Base Price: $26,615 | Expert Rating: 4.2
IIHS Rating: TSP+
Combined Fuel Economy: 29 mpg
It’s not the roomiest in its class, but the Mazda CX-30 is arguably the most fun-to-drive subcompact SUV. If you have to make that slog to work every day, it should be entertaining, right? We consider the all-wheel-drive CX-30 the athlete of the affordable subcompact SUV segment. In other words, we can recommend its driving dynamics as well as its commuter-friendly attributes. Every CX-30 comes with a bundle of advanced safety tech like automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. The entry-level S trim also comes with high-beam assist, adaptive cruise control, push-button start, an 8.8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and two USB-C ports.
For a bargain upcharge of less than $1,700, we suggest you move up to the S Select Sport grade. Doing so gains you rain-sensing wipers, heated outboard mirrors, proximity keyless entry, dual-zone automatic climate control, and more. See Mazda CX-30 models for sale near you
8. 2025 Kia Niro Plug-in Hybrid
Best Value for Commuters: $35,885 (EX)
Base Price: $35,885 | Expert Rating: 4.5
IIHS Rating: Not yet rated
Combined Fuel Economy: 108 MPGe (electric)/48 mpg (gasoline)
The Kia Niro is a car that is available as a plug-in hybrid (PHEV), hybrid, or EV. The hybrid posts 49 mpg combined. The EV has a total range of 253 miles and a combined fuel economy of 113 MPGe. The PHEV will be available in every state and has an electric-only range of up to 33 miles. It has an EPA-rated combined fuel economy of 108 MPGe and a total range of 510 miles.
The Kia Niro EX Plug-in Hybrid provides heated outboard mirrors, a power driver’s seat, heated front seats, and dual-zone automatic climate control in its base EX guise. Also included are a 10.25-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Also standard is the Drive Wise suite of driver aids, including forward collision warning with AEB, blind-spot detection, rear-cross traffic avoidance assist, lane-keeping assist, lane-following assist, rear parking sensors, and the safe exit warning. See Kia Niro models for sale near you
9. 2025 Tesla Model 3
Best Value for Commuters: $44,130 (Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive)
Base Price: $44,130 | Expert Rating: 4.2
IIHS Rating: TSP+ (2023)
Combined Fuel Economy: 137 MPGe
The Tesla Model 3 is well-equipped in its base Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive trim. This trim level also has an EPA-rated maximum range of 363 miles. Included are keyless entry, heated and 12-way power-adjustable front seats, heated outboard mirrors, rain-sensing wipers, and dual-zone automatic climate control. A 15-inch touchscreen houses most system controls. You can even enter your Tesla 3 using your smartphone. What this sedan doesn’t provide is Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
Autopilot is standard, adding forward collision warning with AEB, blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. Although it’s pricey ($8,000), we’d consider adding Full Self-Driving (Supervised) capability. It gains you automatic lane changing, self-parking, remote parking, automatic traffic light and stop sign response, and automatic navigation. It also includes Smart Summon, which can summon your Tesla to meet you through your smartphone. However, at the end of the day, we could live with the base model. See Tesla Model 3 models for sale near you
Best Used Commuter Cars
1. 2016-2017 Toyota Prius
Price Range: $14,000-$17,000 | Expert Rating 4.5
IIHS Rating: TSP+
Combined Fuel Economy: 56 mpg
Over the past 25 years, the Toyota Prius has proven to be a reliable, highly fuel-efficient vehicle. The current generation of the Prius started in 2016, which means you can pick up a model that’s fairly similar to the current model for a lot less money.
The Prius can provide fuel economy as good as 56 mpg in the Eco or 52 mpg in all other trim levels. But it isn’t just about saving money at the pump. The Toyota Prius is a spacious car with a quiet interior. It has a comfortable ride and pleasant road manners. Its liftback design also means there is an impressive amount of space for cargo.
The Prius Two comes nicely equipped with a 4.2-inch display that shows hybrid functions and efficiency. It also comes with a 6.1-inch touchscreen that works with the Entune system, audio, Bluetooth, and Siri Eyes Free. The standard Toyota Safety Sense-P brings pre-collision with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert, and adaptive cruise control.
Shop for a top-of-the-line Prius Four or Four Touring if you want heated front seats and a power driver’s seat. See Toyota Prius models for sale near you
2. 2016-2017 Nissan Altima
Price Range: $8,400-$11,000 | Expert Rating 4.1
IIHS Rating: TSP+
Combined Fuel Economy: 31 mpg
One of our favorite things about the Nissan Altima over the last several years is its Zero Gravity seats. NASA collaborated on their design, which helps you assume a neutral spinal posture. Whether it’s a long commute or a cross-country trip, these seats reduce stress and fatigue.
If you stay in the upper trim levels (we priced the 2.5 SV), you get a lot of bang for your buck. The SV for these model years included an 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, keyless entry with push-button start, hands-free texting, dual-zone automatic climate control, and Siri Eyes Free.
Among the driver aids were forward collision warning with AEB, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, and lane departure warning. See Nissan Altima models for sale near you
3. 2017-2018 Chevrolet Volt (PHEV)
Price Range: $17,000-$20,100 | Expert Rating: 4.4
IIHS Rating: TSP+ (2017), TSP 2018)
Combined Fuel Economy: 106 MPGe/42 mpg gasoline only
A different take on the hybrid formula, the Chevrolet Volt PHEV runs on battery power until the battery gets depleted. Then, the gasoline engine kicks in to continue feeding power to the electric motors. On battery alone, the Volt’s range is up to 53 miles. The total range with a fully charged battery and a full tank of gas is 420 miles.
We priced out the Premier with the Confidence II Package. This provides the widest array of driver aids. These include forward collision warning with AEB, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control.
Other must-have features include an 8-inch touchscreen, automatic climate control, Wi-Fi capability, and Apple CarPlay. See Chevrolet Volt models for sale near you
3. 2017-2020 Honda Fit
Price Range: $12,800-$15,000 | Expert Rating: 4.6
IIHS Rating: Good
Combined Fuel Economy: 36 mpg
An ideal urban runabout, the small-on-the-outside, big-on-the-inside Honda Fit delivers solid fuel economy, is easy to park, and comes fairly well-equipped for its day. We priced the EX grade.
The EX came with a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, keyless entry with push-button start, and satellite radio capability. Among its driver aids are forward collision warning with AEB, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. Adaptive cruise control and high-beam assist were also standard for higher trims starting in 2018. See Honda Fit models for sale near you
4. 2020-2021 Ford Escape
Price Range: $14,000-$19,000 | Expert Rating: 4.3
IIHS Rating: TSP
Combined Fuel Economy: 30 mpg (1.5-liter)
Redesigned for 2020, the Ford Escape leaped from mediocre safety ratings to an IIHS TSP. Not only did Ford make it structurally safer, but it also infused it with more driver aids. Ford also added HEV and PHEV powertrains for 2020. If you opt for the Hybrid (HEV), the combined fuel economy is 41 mpg. With the plug-in hybrid, all-electric fuel economy is 102 MPGe and 41 mpg the rest of the time (2020) and 105 MPGe and 40 mpg (2021 models). We priced the gas SE grade with and without all-wheel drive.
The SE’s standard content included a power-adjustable driver’s seat, automatic climate control, an 8-inch touchscreen, multiple USB ports, and heated outboard mirrors. Other standard features are keyless entry with push-button start, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto.
Included in every 2020-2021 Escape, the Co-Pilot360 bundle provides forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and high-beam assist. Also standard are blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert and adaptive cruise control. See Ford Escape models for sale near you
5. 2016-2019 Hyundai Sonata
Price Range: $10,000-$14,800 | Expert Rating: 4.5
IIHS Rating: TSP+ (2016, 2018, 2019), TSP (2017)
Combined Fuel Economy: 31 mpg
Hyundai offered the Sonata with gas engines and as an HEV and a PHEV, but the hybrid models are challenging to find. We priced the Limited with the Ultimate Package. Standard features include an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, USB ports, dual-zone automatic climate control, and keyless entry with push-button start. Also included were heated front and rear seats and ventilated front seats.
You’ve got to pick up an option package or two to gain most driver aids. Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert is standard on the Limited. Adaptive cruise control, rear-park assist, high-beam assist, and lane departure warning are part of the Ultimate Package. See Hyundai Sonata models for sale near you
