For many people, the days of gas-guzzling SUVs and sports cars are in the past. Any one of these 10 cars will offer great gas mileage and have you driving farther for less money. The fuel estimates are based on 2008 numbers from fueleconomy.gov. Combined fuel economy refers to the average mpg of the vehicle when combining city and highway mileage.
Overall, the Prius is the most fuel-efficient car on the market. With a combined fuel economy of 46 mpg, and a base price around $21,000, the Prius has become a popular choice among the fuel conscious. Its unusual body type may be off-putting to some, however.
Honda has taken its most popular car and placed a hybrid engine in it to maximize fuel efficiency. The Civic Hybrid carries a base price of around $23,000 but has a combined fuel efficiency of 42 mpg.
A small, two-seat hybrid, the Smart Fortwo has an incredibly low base price of $12,000 and a combined fuel economy of 36 mpg.
The first non-hybrid on the list, the diesel-powered Jetta TDI has a combined fuel economy of 34 mpg and carries a base price of around $20,000.
At 34 mpg, Nissan's mid-size hybrid has a lower combined fuel economy than the Civic or the Prius, but more power for those who want a car with some kick. The Altima carries a base price of around $26,000.
With a combined fuel economy of 34 mpg and a base price of $26,500, the Camry Hybrid combines a fuel efficient hybrid engine with the best selling car in America.
Another non-hybrid, the Mini Cooper has the best fuel economy of any car with a conventional engine. The small and sporty Cooper has a combined fuel economy of 32 mpg and a base price around $19,000.
With another unconventional body-style from Toyota, the Yaris will set you back around $12,000 and net you a combined fuel economy of 32 mpg.
Fuel conscious SUV lovers are not forgotten with the Ford Escape Hybrid. Billed by Ford as the most fuel efficient SUV in the world, the Escape Hybrid has a combined fuel economy of 32 mpg, but it will cost you around $30,000.
Another hybrid SUV, the Mariner Hybrid has a combined fuel economy of 32 mpg and a base price around $30,000.
