Best eco-friendly cars
Thanks to advancements of car technology and pushes from policymakers, more vehicles now meet the standards for green cars. Whether it’s a fully electric vehicle, an internal combustion car with great gas mileage or something in between, we used GreenerCars’ rankings of the Greenest and Greener cars to compile a list of the top eco-friendly cars to inspire your next purchase.[7]
Each GreenerCar score is out of 100, with the highest scoring car for 2022 receiving a 69. The higher the score, the more fuel-efficient and emission-friendly. This list of the most eco-friendly cars takes into account GreenerCar scores, fuel efficiency and the vehicle’s powertrain or the mechanism that causes the car to drive.
1. Toyota Prius Prime
As one of the best-selling hybrids, the Toyota Prius Prime is the most eco-friendly car of 2022. With a lightweight lithium-ion battery that helps it maximize mileage, this green vehicle gets a driving range of 640 miles and is the perfect fit for daily commuters and road trippers alike.
Key eco features:
- GreenerCar score: 69/100
- Powertrain: Plug-in hybrid
- Fuel economy: 54 combined MPG
2. Hyundai Ioniq Plug-In Hybrid
With a combined driving range of 620 miles, the Hyundai Ioniq PHEV gives you the option to use gas or electricity wherever you go. With special access to HOV lanes depending on your location and the option to drive in all-electric mode, this car features perks for you and the environment.
Key eco features:
- GreenerCar score: 68/100
- Powertrain: Plug-in hybrid
- Fuel economy: 52 combined MPG
3. Mini Cooper SE Hardtop 2 Door
The fully electrified Mini Cooper SE Hardtop 2 Door offers a driving range of 114 miles on a full charge and offers major savings on fuel costs. In just 15,000 miles, which is slightly over the average amount Americans drive, the SE Hardtop 2 Door can save you as much as $1,368 per year.[8]
Key eco features:
- GreenerCar score: 67/100
- Powertrain: Electric vehicle
- Fuel economy: 110 combined MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent)
4. Nissan LEAF
This all-electric vehicle features a 40-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery and a 110-kilowatt electric motor. With one of the most affordable EV price points, the Nissan LEAF makes transitioning to electric more accessible for the masses.
Key eco features:
- GreenerCar score: 67/100
- Powertrain: Electric vehicle
- Fuel economy: 111 combined MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent)
5. Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid
The Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid is an award-winning crossover SUV that is predicted to save owners nearly $5,000 in fuel costs over five years. If the fuel savings weren’t enough, this PHEV also has a driving range of 560 miles so you can conveniently skip a pit stop.
Key eco features:
- GreenerCar score: 65/100
- Powertrain: Plug-in hybrid
- Fuel economy: 46 combined MPG