Affordable Used Cars With 35+ MPG and Apple CarPlay (2025 Guide)
Combining 35+ MPG with Apple CarPlay in an affordable used car is very doable. This guide lists seven models that regularly deliver both: Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Hyundai Ioniq, Kia Niro, Chevy Cruze, Mazda3, and Hyundai Elantra. You get lower fuel bills and modern connectivity without a new-car price. Use our Annual Fuel Cost Estimator to see fuel savings and browse our guides for more comparisons.
Why 35+ MPG and Apple CarPlay Together?
35+ MPG (EPA combined) cuts fuel costs on commutes and road trips—especially with today’s gas prices. Over 15,000 miles per year, a 38 MPG car can save you hundreds of dollars compared to a 28 MPG vehicle; use our Annual Fuel Cost Estimator to run your own numbers. Apple CarPlay gives you navigation, music, and messaging through your phone on the dashboard, so you don’t need to upgrade to a new car just for tech. Targeting both in the used market gets you a practical, connected daily driver for less. Many of the cars in this guide were Top Safety Picks in their day, so you can pair efficiency and connectivity with solid safety—browse our guides for more on safe, efficient used cars.
Comparison at a Glance
| Vehicle | Est. MPG (Combined) | CarPlay Availability | Key Strength |
|---|---|---|---|
| Honda Civic | 32–36 | 2016+ (trim-dependent) | Reliability, resale |
| Toyota Corolla | 32–38 | 2019+ (standard on many) | Efficiency, durability |
| Hyundai Ioniq | 55–58 (hybrid) | 2017+ | Best MPG, hybrid value |
| Kia Niro | 49–52 (hybrid) | 2017+ | Crossover space, efficiency |
| Chevy Cruze | 30–35 (diesel higher) | 2016+ | Low purchase price |
| Mazda3 | 28–36 | 2018+ (Mazda Connect) | Driving feel, efficiency |
| Hyundai Elantra | 33–41 | 2017+ | Value, features |
MPG and CarPlay vary by year and trim. learn about AutoSpecs for detailed specs.
Detailed Vehicle Recommendations
1. Honda Civic
Pros: Strong reliability, 32–36 MPG in many trims, CarPlay on 2016+ in applicable trims, good safety scores. Cons: Theft and insurance can be higher on some years; verify CarPlay is on the exact trim. Best for: Buyers who want a proven name with efficiency and connectivity.
2. Toyota Corolla
Pros: 32–38 MPG (up to 40+ on hybrid), CarPlay on 2019+ models, low cost of ownership. Cons: Earlier years may not have CarPlay; base trims can feel basic. Best for: Prioritizing long-term reliability and fuel economy with modern infotainment.
3. Hyundai Ioniq (Hybrid)
Pros: 55–58 MPG combined, CarPlay from 2017, hatchback utility, strong warranty when new. Cons: Less power than some; cabin and ride are economy-focused. Best for: Maximizing MPG and CarPlay in one affordable package.
4. Kia Niro (Hybrid)
Pros: 49–52 MPG, CarPlay from 2017, crossover seating and cargo, good value. Cons: Not sporty; some trims can push budget. Best for: Families or commuters who want crossover space and hybrid efficiency with CarPlay.
5. Chevy Cruze
Pros: Often the cheapest to buy, 30–35 MPG (diesel higher), CarPlay on 2016+. Cons: Reliability mixed; diesel has had issues; model discontinued. Best for: Tight budgets when you confirm the specific year’s reliability and get a PPI.
6. Mazda3
Pros: 28–36 MPG depending on engine/trim, CarPlay on 2018+ (often via Mazda Connect update), fun to drive. Cons: CarPlay sometimes requires a dealer or aftermarket update on older 2018s. Best for: Drivers who want engagement and efficiency with CarPlay.
7. Hyundai Elantra
Pros: 33–41 MPG (hybrid trims at top), CarPlay from 2017, lots of features for the money. Cons: Resale lags Honda/Toyota; avoid problem years (research engine/transmission). Best for: Value-focused buyers who want CarPlay and strong MPG.
What to Look For When Shopping
When you’re in the market for an affordable used car with 35+ MPG and Apple CarPlay, start by narrowing by model year: CarPlay wasn’t standard everywhere until the late 2010s, so confirm availability for the exact trim. Next, pull EPA fuel economy for that year and engine at fueleconomy.gov—highway-heavy commuters will see numbers closer to the highway rating, while city drivers will see lower. Finally, run a few candidates through our Car Affordability Calculator and Annual Fuel Cost Estimator so you’re comparing total cost, not just sticker price.
How We Chose These Picks
We required EPA combined 35+ MPG (or high 30s where the model is a strong value or hybrid). We verified Apple CarPlay availability by model year and trim from manufacturer and aftermarket sources. We favored cars that are common in the used market and have reasonable reliability for their year, and we excluded models with major known drivetrain or safety issues. Our process matches how we build browse our guides and learn about AutoSpecs.
Buying Tips
- Confirm CarPlay on the exact unit. Not every trim in a given year has it; check the infotainment menu or window sticker. If the car has “CarPlay” in the menu or the dealer says it’s equipped, test it with your iPhone before you buy.
- Some Mazda3 2018 models need a software/hardware update for CarPlay; ask the seller or dealer if it’s already installed.
- Prioritize service history and get a pre-purchase inspection; fuel economy and tech don’t matter if the drivetrain is worn.
- Use our Car Affordability Calculator to set a budget and Annual Fuel Cost Estimator to compare fuel costs across models.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all these cars have Apple CarPlay standard?
No. CarPlay depends on year and trim. Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla added it in select trims in 2016 and 2019 respectively; Hyundai/Kia and others vary. Always verify the specific VIN or trim before buying.
Is the Hyundai Ioniq hybrid reliable?
Overall, the Ioniq hybrid has a solid reputation for reliability and efficiency. As with any used car, check service history and get a PPI; avoid the first model year if you want to minimize risk.
Should I avoid the Chevy Cruze?
Not automatically. The Cruze can offer strong value and CarPlay, but some model years and engines (especially diesel) had issues. Research the exact year and engine, and get a thorough inspection.
Can I add Apple CarPlay to an older car that doesn’t have it?
Yes. Aftermarket head units with CarPlay are available for many cars. If the car you like doesn’t have CarPlay, factor in the cost of a quality head unit and installation (often $300–$800+) when comparing options.
Which gives the best MPG and CarPlay for the money?
The Hyundai Ioniq hybrid often delivers the best MPG (55–58 combined) with CarPlay from 2017, at used prices that undercut many newer hybrids. The Annual Fuel Cost Estimator can show your exact savings versus a 35 MPG gas-only car. If you prefer a non-hybrid, the Toyota Corolla (2019+) and Honda Civic (2016+) offer strong MPG and CarPlay with top-tier reliability—see learn about AutoSpecs for trim-by-trim details.
Conclusion
You can get 35+ MPG and Apple CarPlay in an affordable used car by focusing on Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Hyundai Ioniq, Kia Niro, Chevy Cruze, Mazda3, and Hyundai Elantra. Confirm CarPlay and MPG for the exact year and trim, get a PPI, and use browse our guides, the Annual Fuel Cost Estimator, and Car Affordability Calculator to decide. For detailed specs, learn about AutoSpecs.
