According to the US Energy Information Administration, gasoline prices have increased by an average of more than a dollar in the past 12 months. Used car prices have also increased by almost 25%, partly due to a lack of inventory in the used market. This combination may make you more inclined to find a fuel efficient vehicle for your next purchase.

To optimize your search, the Edmunds experts have highlighted five serviceable vehicles. We selected a mix of cars and SUVs with an EPA combined fuel economy estimate of at least 30 mpg and high expert and consumer ratings for Edmunds. For each vehicle, we’ve listed the latest model year, which you can get with an average price under $ 25,000. The pricing data comes from Edmunds’ analysis of the most recent sales transaction data at franchise dealers.

The Toyota Prius is one of the most fuel-efficient cars on the road today. It combines a hybrid powertrain with a small but roomy hatchback body to create a car that is both practical and fuel efficient at the pump.

The Prius offers most of Toyota’s latest in-car technology and advanced driver aids at a relatively affordable price. It’s far from exciting to drive, but when fuel economy is a priority it doesn’t get much better.

Average transaction price: $ 23,119

Fuel economy: EPA-estimated 50-56 mpg combined

The Fusion Hybrid was one of the first hybrid sedans to hit the market in 2010. Various improvements have been made over the past few years, but the main appeal is the same: this is pretty much a regular Fusion that lets you get higher fuel economy and small compromise.

Highlights include comfortable seats, a smooth ride and a spacious trunk. The lively handling of the Fusion also gives the car a sporty feel when cornering. On the flip side, the Fusion’s sleek roofline results in cramped rear seats for taller adults and sizable rear blind spots for the driver.

Average transaction price: $ 17,981

Fuel economy: EPA-estimated 42 mpg combined

The Chevrolet Volt is a small plug-in hybrid hatchback. That said, it has a larger battery than the typical hybrid that you can charge at home or at a public charging station. On a full battery, the Volt can consume an EPA-estimated 53 miles – more than most other plug-in hybrids – without fuel.

You need to charge the Volt regularly to use the plug-in system. But even when the battery is empty, the Volt works like a normal hybrid vehicle. Further advantages are numerous available technology functions and rapid acceleration. However, space for rear passengers and cargo is scarce.

Average Transaction Price: $ 18,952

Fuel economy: EPA estimated 53 miles on all electrical power, then 42 mpg combined with normal hybrid operation

The current generation Honda CR-V has been one of Edmunds’ most popular SUVs since its debut in 2017. Although Honda is only just offering a hybrid version, the standard CR-V also offers excellent fuel consumption for a small SUV engine with the optional turbocharger. It offers more passenger and cargo space than the Prius, Fusion, and some other SUVs.

The interior is comfortable and offers plenty of space for small items such as smartphones and sunglasses. But we were disappointed with some Honda technicians in the car. The touchscreen may be slow to respond, and the lack of a tuning knob makes it harder to change channels than necessary. However, if you are looking for a small and fuel efficient SUV it doesn’t get much better.

Average transaction price: $ 23,343

Fuel economy: EPA-estimated 30 mpg combined (1.5 liter turbo engine)

The Volkswagen diesel engine emissions scandal in 2015 may have marred some people’s love for the brand. But if you can look beyond that, then the VW Golf is a small car that is easily gratifying. Its turbocharged engine is fuel efficient and also pleasantly powerful when you need to accelerate.

Another highlight is the comfortable interior, which looks and feels above most competitors’ cabins. The hatchback body style offers a lot of utility, and if you really need space, the rare Golf SportWagen offers even more interior space with just a small slap on fuel economy. A lack of luxury and comfort features compared to other small cars is the main disadvantage of the Golf.

Average Transaction Price: $ 17,679

Fuel economy: 28 mpg combined

Note that prices and selections vary by region. Hence, you may need to consider previous model years or expand your network to find a good used car candidate.

This story was made available to The Associated Press by the Edmunds automotive website.

Reese Counts is the Vehicle Testing Editor at Edmunds. Twitter: @rmcounts

2019 Ford Fusion Hybrid Review

2018 Chevrolet Volt review

2018 Volkswagen Golf Review

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