THESE 12 CARS UNDER $55,200 ARE THE MOST ECO-FRIENDLY — AND 5 AREN’T EVEN EVS

When it comes to eco-friendly cars, consumers have more choices than ever before with a wider variety affordable cars on the market. So how do you choose the right one for you? The American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) created a list of the 12 most environmentally friendly vehicles new at dealers for 2024.

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The ACEEE evaluated these vehicles not just on energy efficiency, which can translate to savings at the gas pump for drivers, but also on emissions estimates, emissions from manufacturing, disposal and waste during manufacturing, and the impact of disposal and recycling, when applicable, according to Forbes.

For plug-in vehicles, the evaluation also included emissions associated with energy production, which can vary. If you’re looking to embrace greener, cleaner driving in 2024, consider one of these top rated models.

Surprisingly missing from the list? Tesla. Even more surprising, the number one car on the list was not an EV, but the Toyota Prius Prime Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle. Another shock to consumers who might perceive that fuel efficiency comes with a higher sticker price, all but one vehicle on the list has an MSRP under $44,000, with four under $29,000.

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The outlier is the Lexus RZ 300e EV, with a sticker price starting at $55,150. Lexus is a luxury name, however, and sports a premium technology package and the comfort and style you’d expect from the brand.

Keep in mind that some of the cars on the list, including non-plug-in hybrids, may not qualify for the full federal EV tax credit, and not every buyer will qualify based on their adjusted gross income, as previously reported by GOBankingRates.

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Toyota Prius Prime PHEV: $32,975

For years, the Toyota Prius has been synonymous with fuel-efficient vehicles, a dream commuter car designed more for gas savings than anything else. The Prius Prime gets a re-design with a sleek look that will turn heads on the highway. Plus, it’s a plug-in model for greater gas savings.

Lexus RZ 300e EV: $55,150

The priciest car on the list at $55,150, the Lexus RZ 300e EV might be considered an alternative to the even pricier Tesla Model S, which starts at $74,990 and is not considered as clean of an option, according to the ACEEE report.

Mini Cooper SE EV: $30,900

Mini Cooper cars carry prestige on the road and are fun to drive. The new MINI Electric maintains the compact car’s innovative styling with a fully electric engine at an affordable price point.

Nissan Leaf EV: $28,140

With a list price under $29,000, smooth handling, and styling reminiscent of the Nissan Rogue, and a range of up to 212 miles, the Nissan Leaf could represent a smart foray into the world of EVs.

Toyota Z4X EV: $43,070

While Toyota pioneered the hybrid movement with the Prius, the Japanese auto manufacturer finally makes its foray into fully electric vehicles with the Toyota bZ4X EV. The compact SUV has a range of up to 252 miles, according to Kelley Blue Book.

Toyota RAV4 Prime PHEV: $43,690

The third of five Toyotas on the list, the new RAV4 Prime lists for under $44,000 and has a plug-in hybrid engine that can go for up to 42 miles on battery power, alone, KBB.com reported. You can enjoy the style and reliability of a top-rated compact SUV with the flexibility of a gas or electric engine.

Hyundai Elantra Blue HEV: $26,250

One of the more affordable models on the list at under $27,000, the Hyundai Elantra Blue HEV boasts Hyundai renowned reliability and smart, sporty styling.

Hyundai Kona Electric EV: $34,050

If you prefer to go all-electric with a Hyundai, the Kona Electric fits the bill with a range of 200 to 260 miles, depending on the model you choose. Caranddriver.com praised its stylish looks and roomy interior for a sub-compact SUV.

Toyota Camry Hybrid HEV: $28,855

The Toyota Camry Hybrid brings fuel-efficient performance to America’s top-selling sedan, for a sticker price under $29,000.

Kia EV6 EV ($43,975): Green Score 63

The Kia EV6, an all-electric crossover SUV, has a range of 310, which is one of the best on this list, with fast-charging from 10% to 80% in as little as 18 minutes.

Toyota Corolla Hybrid HEV: $23,500

Toyota brings an affordable hybrid to market with the 2024 Corolla, featuring the sporty performance and sleek styling you’d expect.

Hyundai Ioniq 5 EV ($41,650): Green Score 62

Hyundai gives Toyota a run for its money with three out of the 12 cleanest cars. The all-electric Hyundai Ioniq 5 SUV has a range of 303 miles between charges, a spacious interior, and an impressive tech package, all for under $42,000.

Ultimately, based on consumer reviews and assessments from the ACEEE, you can’t go wrong going green with one of these vehicles in 2024.

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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: These 12 Cars Under $55,200 Are the Most Eco-Friendly — and 5 Aren’t Even EVs

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