How to Shop for a Fuel-Efficient Vehicle?

Answer 1

Shopping for a fuel efficient vehicle presents the cost conscious car buyer with a number of challenges. Fuel efficient vehicle are becoming a priority as gas prices continue to edge upward and the economy flounders. A new vehicle must meet your needs and you just might be surprised at the growing list of fuel efficient models. You can find a new vehicle with great gas mileage and the important features you require.

If fuel efficiency and price are the last word, you may want to stick with a four cylinder engine. They cost less and get better gas mileage. Recent advances in automatic transmissions have made them slightly more fuel efficient than manual transmissions.

There are an influx of hybrid vehicles on the market today capable of getting up to 50 miles per gallon. Hybrid vehicles are rated using the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) combined fuel economy formula of 55% city mpg rating and 45% highway mpg rating. All vehicles use a standard transmission.

Topping the list is the 2010 Toyota Prius at 51 mpg followed by the Honda Civic Hybrid at 45 mpg. There are new models on the way such as the Nissan Leaf and the Chevy Volt and don’t forget about diesel. In the past, diesel engines were very noisy and smelly. Recent improvements have eliminated these issues and their mileage rivals that of a hybrid vehicle.

Hybrid vehicles have been selling over sticker price and the savings you are looking for may not be there. While they may save money at the pump, they are more expensive and often sell well above sticker price. Current non-hybrid vehicles get anywhere from 28 - 36 mpg and list well below hybrids, ranging from $11,000 - $15,000. They may be the better deal in the long run.

Do your homework when selecting a fuel efficient car. Shop around on the internet for dealers with inventory. The used market may also be a source for hybrids and fuel efficient vehicles.