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2026 Models
Car Fact Sheet

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Sources: EPANHTSAIIHSAAARecallsWarranty

Lowest Cost per Mile Sedans for 2026

The 2026 Nissan Sentra leads at $0.56 per mile, out of 50 vehicles with AAA ownership data. Base prices start at $22,290.

Top-Ranked Result

2026 Nissan Sentra

$0.56 per mile total operating cost

$22,600 starting MSRP, 34 MPG

How this list is generated

Model year: 2026; Vehicle type: Sedan. Data is updated when source agencies publish new information.

$22k–$93kPrice Range
14Brands
105-Star Rated
$900Lowest Fuel Cost

Showing 30 of 50 vehicles

Common Questions

What is the cheapest sedan to operate per mile in 2026?

The 2026 Nissan Sentra has the lowest cost per mile at $0.56, out of 50 vehicles with AAA ownership data for 2026. This includes fuel, insurance, depreciation, maintenance, and financing costs.

What does cost per mile include?

Cost per mile combines all major ownership expenses: fuel, insurance, depreciation, maintenance, registration, taxes, and financing. It is calculated from AAA annual ownership cost data divided by 15,000 miles (the average annual driving distance). A lower cost per mile means the vehicle is cheaper to own and operate over time.

Are the cheapest cars per mile also the cheapest to buy?

Not always. Among these 50 vehicles, base prices range from $22,290 to $92,700. A higher-priced vehicle can have a lower cost per mile if it has better fuel economy, lower insurance rates, or slower depreciation. Total cost of ownership matters more than sticker price.

Which brands have sedans on this list?

14 brands are represented: Alfa Romeo, Audi, BMW, Cadillac, Genesis, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, and 6 more. Rankings are based on EPA, NHTSA, IIHS, AAA, and RepairPal data, not editorial opinion.