Cars Under $10,000 That Are Cheap to Fill Up in 2025

If you’re shopping for a used car under $10,000, keeping fuel costs low can make a huge difference to your monthly budget. The right car doesn’t just cost less at purchase—it costs less every time you fill the tank. This guide highlights cars under $10K that are genuinely cheap to fill up in 2025, with real-world efficiency, pros and cons, and tips so you can buy with confidence. We focus on models you can actually find in this price range with decent mileage and history, so you’re not chasing unicorns—just solid, affordable transportation that won’t break the bank at the pump.

Why Fuel Cost Matters When You’re on a Budget

At $3–$4 per gallon, a car that gets 25 MPG can cost hundreds of dollars more per year in fuel than one that gets 35–40 MPG. Over the life of the car, that gap can add up to thousands. Choosing a fuel-efficient model under $10K stretches your budget further and leaves more room for insurance, maintenance, and savings. Use our Annual Fuel Cost Estimator to see exactly how much you’ll spend at the pump for any car you’re considering.

How We Evaluated These Cars

We focused on used cars that are commonly available under $10,000 and that deliver strong EPA combined fuel economy. We considered real-world MPG reports, typical tank sizes, and reliability so that “cheap to fill up” also means “cheap to own.” We excluded models that are rarely under $10K in decent shape or that have costly reliability issues that offset fuel savings.

Cars Under $10K That Are Cheap to Fill Up

1. Toyota Prius

The Prius remains one of the lowest-cost cars to fill up. Used examples from the 2012–2017 era often sit under $10K.

Pros: Around 50 MPG combined, small tank means fewer dollars per fill-up, proven reliability.
Cons: Hybrid battery age matters; have it checked before buying.

2. Honda Civic

The Civic offers excellent fuel economy in a practical package. 2013–2019 models are frequently under $10K.

Pros: 30–36 MPG combined depending on year/engine, reliable, cheap to maintain and insure.
Cons: Popular—prices can be firm; watch for accident history.

3. Hyundai Elantra

The Elantra delivers strong MPG and value. Older generations (e.g., 2014–2019) are easy to find under $10K.

Pros: 28–33 MPG combined, long warranty on some models if still valid, good space.
Cons: Resale and perceived quality lag Honda/Toyota; check for recalls.

4. Kia Forte

The Forte is a Civic/Corolla competitor with similar efficiency. 2014–2019 models often land under $10K.

Pros: 28–32 MPG combined, affordable, decent features for the price.
Cons: Some years have engine or transmission issues; research the exact year.

5. Mazda3

The Mazda3 pairs fuel efficiency with sharper handling. 2014–2018 models are realistic under $10K.

Pros: 28–33 MPG combined, fun to drive, reliable when well maintained.
Cons: Can be pricier than Corolla/Civic; rust on older cars in salt states.

6. Nissan Sentra

The Sentra is a budget sedan with competitive MPG. Pre-2020 models are commonly under $10K.

Pros: 30–34 MPG combined, low purchase price, roomy interior.
Cons: CVT reliability concerns on certain years; get a thorough inspection.

7. Toyota Corolla

The Corolla is a default choice for low cost of ownership. 2014–2019 models are widely available under $10K.

Pros: 30–35 MPG combined, very reliable, cheap to insure and maintain.
Cons: Driving experience is bland; base trims are basic.

Comparison: Fill-Up Cost and MPG

Model	Est. Combined MPG	Est. 12,000 mi/year Fuel Cost*	Relative Fill-Up Cost
Toyota Prius	~50	~$720–$960	Lowest
Honda Civic	30–36	~$1,000–$1,400	Low
Toyota Corolla	30–35	~$1,030–$1,400	Low
Nissan Sentra	30–34	~$1,060–$1,400	Low
Mazda3	28–33	~$1,090–$1,430	Low–mid
Hyundai Elantra	28–33	~$1,090–$1,430	Low–mid
Kia Forte	28–32	~$1,125–$1,430	Mid

*Rough estimate at $3–$4/gal; use our Annual Fuel Cost Estimator for your driving and local gas prices.

Your actual fill-up cost depends on tank size and how often you drive. Smaller tanks on efficient cars mean you pay less per visit to the pump and may go longer between fill-ups—another reason the Prius and compact sedans in this list are so budget-friendly for daily drivers.

Buying Tips for the Cheapest Fill-Ups

• Prioritize combined MPG. City-only or highway-only numbers don’t tell the full story; combined reflects typical mixed driving.
• Run the numbers yourself. Plug your annual miles and local gas price into our Annual Fuel Cost Estimator to compare cars.
• Factor in total cost. A car that’s cheap to fill up but expensive to insure or repair may not save money overall—use our Cost Per Mile Tool.
• Check tire condition. Worn or under-inflated tires hurt MPG; budget for a good set if needed.
• Avoid salvage or sketchy history. A cheap car that breaks down often is no bargain. A clean title and consistent service history are worth more than a rock-bottom sticker price.

For more strategies, browse our guides and try our Car Affordability Calculator before you buy. Knowing your total budget up front helps you narrow the list and negotiate with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the cheapest car to fill up under $10,000?

The Toyota Prius (used, e.g., 2012–2017) typically has the lowest fuel cost in this price range, with combined MPG around 50 and a relatively small tank, so each fill-up costs less and you fill up less often.

Do I have to buy a hybrid to keep fuel costs low?

No. Cars like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mazda3, and Hyundai Elantra offer 30–35 MPG combined and are cheap to fill up without the complexity or battery concerns of a hybrid.

How much can I save with a fuel-efficient car under $10K?

Compared to a 22 MPG car, a 35 MPG car can save roughly $400–$600 per year at 12,000 miles and $3.50/gal. Over five years, that’s $2,000–$3,000 in fuel savings. Use our Annual Fuel Cost Estimator for your scenario.

Are Nissan Sentras under $10K reliable?

Some Sentra years have CVT and engine issues. Research the specific model year, get a pre-purchase inspection, and prefer one with a solid service history.

Where can I compare total cost of ownership?

Use AutoSpecs Daily tools: Cost Per Mile Tool, Annual Fuel Cost Estimator, and Insurance Cost Estimator to compare fuel, insurance, and running costs.

Conclusion

Cars under $10,000 that are cheap to fill up in 2025 include the Toyota Prius for the lowest fuel bills, plus the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Hyundai Elantra, Kia Forte, Mazda3, and Nissan Sentra for strong gas-only efficiency. Choose based on your mileage, local gas prices, and total budget—and run the numbers with our tools before you buy. Your annual miles and local gas prices will determine which car saves you the most at the pump; use our Annual Fuel Cost Estimator to compare and narrow your shortlist. For more data-driven buying advice, browse our guides and explore AutoSpecs Daily.