Top Budget Cars with High Resale Value and MPG in 2025

If you want a fuel-efficient car in 2025 that won’t just save you money at the pump but also hold its value over time, this list is for you. These cars are some of the most budget-friendly in the used market, yet offer impressive resale strength and excellent fuel economy. That means you can drive them for a few years and still get a solid return when it’s time to sell or trade.

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2015–2017 Toyota Corolla LE / Eco

The Corolla has a reputation for longevity and low running costs, which helps it retain resale value. The LE Eco trim bumps fuel economy even higher without sacrificing comfort or reliability. These models hold value better than many compacts and are still affordable.

Quick Specs:

• MPG: 30 city / 40 highway
• Price Range: $9,000–$12,000
• Resale Strength: Excellent (especially in coastal or urban areas)

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2016–2018 Honda Civic LX

Few cars balance fuel economy, fun, and value retention like the Civic. The 2.0L engine in the LX trim offers excellent efficiency and fewer complications than the turbo models. Civic resale values remain some of the strongest in the compact segment.

Quick Specs:

• MPG: 31 city / 41 highway
• Price Range: $10,000–$14,000
• Resale Strength: High, especially with low miles and maintenance records

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2012–2015 Toyota Prius

The Prius is always in demand thanks to its unbeatable MPG and rock-solid dependability. Even older models hold their value well, particularly if they’ve been serviced regularly and the battery is in good condition. The hatchback layout and low maintenance costs add even more value.

Quick Specs:

• MPG: 51 city / 48 highway
• Price Range: $8,500–$11,500
• Resale Strength: Strong, especially in high-gas-price regions

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2015–2017 Mazda3 Touring (Skyactiv)

The Mazda3 stands out for delivering excellent fuel efficiency while still being a fun-to-drive car with premium styling. Thanks to Skyactiv engineering, it performs like a sportier car without sacrificing MPG. Mazda resale value continues to improve.

Quick Specs:

• MPG: 30 city / 41 highway
• Price Range: $9,500–$12,500
• Resale Strength: Growing, especially in enthusiast circles

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2014–2016 Subaru Impreza (Sedan or Hatch)

The Impreza is one of the few all-wheel-drive cars that delivers solid fuel efficiency and decent resale value. Hatchback versions are especially popular in the used market. While MPG isn’t quite as high as others here, the AWD utility boosts resale.

Quick Specs:

• MPG: 27 city / 36 highway
• Price Range: $8,500–$11,500
• Resale Strength: Above average, especially in snowbelt states

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Comparison Table

Model	Years	City MPG	Hwy MPG	Price Range	Resale Value	Notes
Toyota Corolla LE/Eco	2015–2017	30	40	$9,000–$12,000	Excellent	Great all-around reliability
Honda Civic LX	2016–2018	31	41	$10,000–$14,000	High	Solid demand in used market
Toyota Prius	2012–2015	51	48	$8,500–$11,500	Strong	Unmatched fuel savings
Mazda3 Touring	2015–2017	30	41	$9,500–$12,500	Growing	Fun to drive, sleek design
Subaru Impreza	2014–2016	27	36	$8,500–$11,500	Above average	AWD with decent MPG

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