2017 BMW i3
You want sustainable and compact with a healthy dose of classiness? The 2017 BMW i3 is a nice way to go. Its interior is sufficiently equipped so you’re not lacking in comfort – olive leaf-tanned leather on the seats, carbon fiber reinforced plastic, and BMW’s iDrive controller are in the i3.
The i3 isn’t a race car, but it can handle its charge well. It can travel 114 miles on a full charge, or 180 miles with the range extender. You’ll find it’s surprisingly responsive in handling and acceleration, partially due to its size and partially because it’s a BMW. This little Bimmer bubble goes for $42,700 before the incentives are taken off.
2017 Mazda 3
Mazda’s looks have dramatically improved in the past few years, including on the Mazda3. That’s great, because it was already one of the best commuter cars otherwise. Its 2.0-liter SKYACTIV-G four-cylinder makes just 155 horsepower, but that’s perfect for a combination city and highway commuter car. And its fuel efficiency is decent at a combined 31 mpg with a manual transmission and 32 mpg with an auto.
Comfy sport seats, Active Driving Display, Bose 9-speaker sound system and a seamlessly integrated smartphone make the drive even better. All Mazda3 variants – the Mazda3 Sport, Mazda3 Touring and Mazda3 Grand Touring – are based on Mazda’s KODO platform, inspired by a natural flow. It all starts out at under $18,000.
2017 Toyota Prius
It’s not just for taxis. The 2017 Toyota Prius is one of the best commuter cars. Known for a reliable hybrid powertrain and great range on electric and gas power, the Prius will make the best commuter car list every time. It might not be the best-looking hybrid around – it’s definitely not – but it’s reliable and has a proven history.
The 1.8-liter VVT-i engine with 95 horsepower pairs with a 71-horsepower electric motor. As you’d expect from a Prius, 54 mpg city and 50 mpg highway are the EPA ratings. The typical power accessories are inside, but its’ a rock-solid commuter car. Or you can look at the Prius Prime with up to 133 MPGe.
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