Sedans have been a customer favorite for years – they’re spacious, powerful and small enough to handle well under most conditions. In 2012, car manufacturers have put a premium on fuel efficiency while sticking true to the nature of sedans, family and large versions alike. After tossing the top models into our fuel efficiency equations, the Elantra, Camry, Optima and Sonata came out on top. It’s tough to beat an aggregate (city + highway) MPG of 35-40 and not cut corners on looks and features, but the cream of this crop got pretty darn close.

The rumors out there tout even more efficient sedans come 2013, but if you’re in the market now and want to downsize from a gas-guzzling SUV or large truck and still ride in comfort and luxury, give this crop of sedans a closer look.

Sedan MPG & Cost Analysis

Click any of the headers below to re-sort.

Category	Class	Year	Make	Model	Options	City (MPG)	Hwy (MPG)	Total (MPG)	Fuel cost /mo(1)	Fuel cost /yr(1)	Save /yr(2)
Gas	Sedans	2012	Hyundai	Elantra	1.8 L, 4 cyl auto	29	40	33	$175	$2,100	$1,365
Gas	Sedans	2012	Hyundai	Elantra	1.8 L, 4 cyl mnl	29	40	33	$175	$2,100	$1,365
Gas	Sedans	2012	Toyota	Camry	2.5 L, 4 cyl auto	25	35	28	$206	$2,475	$990
Gas	Sedans	2012	Kia	Optima	2.4 L, 4 cyl auto	24	35	28	$206	$2,475	$990
Gas	Sedans	2012	Kia	Optima	2.4 L, 4 cyl mnl	24	35	28	$206	$2,475	$990
Gas	Sedans	2012	Hyundai	Sonata	2.4 L, 4 cyl auto	24	35	28	$206	$2,475	$990
Gas	Sedans	2012	Hyundai	Sonata	2.4 L, 4 cyl mnl	24	35	28	$206	$2,475	$990
Gas	Sedans	2012	Honda	Accord	2.4 L, 4 cyl auto	23	34	27	$214	$2,567	$898
Gas	Sedans	2012	Honda	Accord	2.4 L, 4 cyl mnl	23	34	27	$214	$2,567	$898
Gas	Sedans	2012	Nissan	Altima	2.5 L, 4 cyl auto	23	32	27	$214	$2,567	$898
Gas	Sedans	2012	Ford	Fusion FWD	2.5 L, 4 cyl auto	23	33	26	$222	$2,665	$800
Gas	Sedans	2012	Suzuki	Kizashi	2.4 L, 4 cyl auto	23	30	26	$222	$2,665	$800
Gas	Sedans	2012	Suzuki	Kizashi S	2.4 L, 4 cyl auto	23	31	26	$222	$2,665	$800
Gas	Sedans	2012	Subaru	Legacy AWD	2.5 L, 4 cyl auto	23	31	26	$222	$2,665	$800
Gas	Sedans	2012	Chevrolet	Malibu	2.4 L, 4 cyl auto	22	33	26	$222	$2,665	$800
Gas	Sedans	2012	Kia	Optima	2.0 L, 4 cyl auto	22	34	26	$222	$2,665	$800
Gas	Sedans	2012	Volkswagen	Passat	2.5 L, 5 cyl mnl	22	32	26	$222	$2,665	$800
Gas	Sedans	2012	Hyundai	Sonata	2.0 L, 4 cyl auto	22	34	26	$222	$2,665	$800
Gas	Sedans	2012	Mazda	6	2.5 L, 4 cyl auto	22	31	25	$231	$2,772	$693
Gas	Sedans	2012	Toyota	Camry	3.5 L, 6 cyl auto	21	30	25	$231	$2,772	$693
Gas	Sedans	2012	Volkswagen	CC	2.0 L, 4 cyl auto	22	31	25	$231	$2,772	$693
Gas	Sedans	2012	Ford	Fusion S FWD	2.5 L, 4 cyl mnl	22	32	25	$231	$2,772	$693
Gas	Sedans	2012	Suzuki	Kizashi AWD	2.4 L, 4 cyl auto	22	29	25	$231	$2,772	$693
Gas	Sedans	2012	Suzuki	Kizashi S	2.4 L, 4 cyl mnl	21	31	25	$231	$2,772	$693
Gas	Sedans	2012	Suzuki	Kizashi S AWD	2.4 L, 4 cyl auto	23	30	25	$231	$2,772	$693
Gas	Sedans	2012	Volkswagen	Passat	2.5 L, 5 cyl auto	22	31	25	$231	$2,772	$693
Gas	Sedans	2012	Mazda	6	2.5 L, 4 cyl mnl	21	30	24	$241	$2,888	$578
Gas	Sedans	2012	Chrysler	200	2.4 L, 4 cyl auto	21	30	24	$241	$2,888	$578
Gas	Sedans	2012	Dodge	Avenger	2.4 L, 4 cyl auto	21	30	24	$241	$2,888	$578
Gas	Sedans	2012	Volkswagen	CC	2.0 L, 4 cyl mnl	21	31	24	$241	$2,888	$578
Gas	Sedans	2012	Ford	Fusion FWD	2.5 L, 4 cyl mnl	22	29	24	$241	$2,888	$578
Gas	Sedans	2012	Mitsubishi	Galant	2.4 L, 4 cyl auto	21	30	24	$241	$2,888	$578
Gas	Sedans	2012	Buick	Regal	2.0 L, 4 cyl mnl	20	32	24	$241	$2,888	$578

1) Estimated with a gas price/gallon of $3.85 and 1,500 miles driven per month.
2) Compared to a 20 MPG vehicle under identical driving conditions.

Cute and tiny might’ve made them a target for ridicule in the past, but in a recession, no one’s laughing at the fuel efficiency of small cars. Everyone knows the smaller the load, the higher your mileage, but these cars have a lot of other things going for them. For starters, most are much more reinforced and higher crash-rated than their predecessors. With their small axle sizes, they turn on a dime and let you easily maneuver tight roads or land even the tiniest of parking spots. Population density is no joke (just ask any Italian), so if you’re in the market for inexpensive (both on purchase and upkeep) and easier city driving, consider going small.

The table below is sorted by yearly savings, based on aggregate city and highway driving. Click any of the headers to re-sort.

Small Car (gas) MPG & Cost Analysis

Category	Class	Year	Make	Model	Options	City (MPG)	Hwy (MPG)	Total (MPG)	Fuel cost /mo(1)	Fuel cost /yr(1)	Save /yr(2)
Gas	Small Cars	2012	Scion	iQ	1.3 L, 4 cyl auto	36	37	37	$156	$1,873	$1,592
Gas	Small Cars	2012	Hyundai	Accent	1.6 L, 4 cyl mnl	30	40	34	$170	$2,038	$1,427
Gas	Small Cars	2012	Kia	Rio	1.6 L, 4 cyl mnl	30	40	34	$170	$2,038	$1,427
Gas	Small Cars	2012	Chevrolet	Sonic	1.4 L, 4 cyl mnl	29	40	33	$175	$2,100	$1,365
Gas	Small Cars	2012	Chevrolet	Cruze Eco	1.4 L, 4 cyl mnl	28	42	33	$175	$2,100	$1,365
Gas	Small Cars	2012	Ford	Fiesta	1.6 L, 4 cyl auto	29	40	33	$175	$2,100	$1,365
Gas	Small Cars	2012	Ford	Fiesta FWD	1.6 L, 4 cyl mnl	29	38	33	$175	$2,100	$1,365
Gas	Small Cars	2012	Ford	Fiesta SFE FWD	1.6 L, 4 cyl auto	29	39	33	$175	$2,100	$1,365
Gas	Small Cars	2012	Ford	Focus SFE FWD	2.0 L, 4 cyl auto	28	40	33	$175	$2,100	$1,365
Gas	Small Cars	2012	Honda	Civic HF	1.8 L, 4 cyl auto	29	41	33	$175	$2,100	$1,365
Gas	Small Cars	2012	Hyundai	Accent	1.6 L, 4 cyl auto	30	40	33	$175	$2,100	$1,365
Gas	Small Cars	2012	Kia	Rio	1.6 L, 4 cyl auto	30	40	33	$175	$2,100	$1,365
Gas	Small Cars	2012	Mazda	3 DI 4 Door	2.0 L, 4 cyl auto	28	40	33	$175	$2,100	$1,365
Gas	Small Cars	2012	Nissan	Versa	1.6 L, 4 cyl mnl	30	38	33	$175	$2,100	$1,365
Gas	Small Cars	2012	Toyota	Yaris	1.5 L, 4 cyl mnl	30	38	33	$175	$2,100	$1,365
Gas	Small Cars	2012	Honda	Civic	1.8 L, 4 cyl auto	28	39	32	$180	$2,166	$1,299
Gas	Small Cars	2012	Hyundai	Veloster	1.6 L, 4 cyl auto	29	38	32	$180	$2,166	$1,299
Gas	Small Cars	2012	Hyundai	Veloster	1.6 L, 4 cyl mnl	28	40	32	$180	$2,166	$1,299
Gas	Small Cars	2012	Mazda	2	1.5 L, 4 cyl mnl	29	35	32	$180	$2,166	$1,299
Gas	Small Cars	2012	Toyota	Yaris	1.5 L, 4 cyl auto	30	35	32	$180	$2,166	$1,299
Gas	Small Cars	2012	Chevrolet	Cruze Eco	1.4 L, 4 cyl auto	26	39	31	$186	$2,235	$1,230
Gas	Small Cars	2012	Ford	Focus FWD	2.0 L, 4 cyl auto (6 spd)	28	38	31	$186	$2,235	$1,230
Gas	Small Cars	2012	Ford	Focus FWD	2.0 L, 4 cyl auto (AM6)	28	38	31	$186	$2,235	$1,230
Gas	Small Cars	2012	Honda	Civic	1.8 L, 4 cyl mnl	28	36	31	$186	$2,235	$1,230
Gas	Small Cars	2012	Honda	Fit	1.5 L, 4 cyl auto	28	35	31	$186	$2,235	$1,230
Gas	Small Cars	2012	Mazda	3 DI 4 Door	2.0 L, 4 cyl mnl	27	39	31	$186	$2,235	$1,230
Gas	Small Cars	2012	Chevrolet	Cruze	1.4 L, 4 cyl auto	26	38	30	$193	$2,310	$1,155
Gas	Small Cars	2012	Chevrolet	Cruze	1.4 L, 4 cyl mnl	26	38	30	$193	$2,310	$1,155
Gas	Small Cars	2012	Ford	Focus FWD	2.0 L, 4 cyl mnl	26	36	30	$193	$2,310	$1,155
Gas	Small Cars	2012	Honda	Fit	1.5 L, 4 cyl auto (S5)	27	33	30	$193	$2,310	$1,155
Gas	Small Cars	2012	Kia	Forte Eco	2.0 L, 4 cyl auto	27	37	30	$193	$2,310	$1,155
Gas	Small Cars	2012	Mazda	2	1.5 L, 4 cyl auto	28	34	30	$193	$2,310	$1,155
Gas	Small Cars	2012	Nissan	Versa	1.8 L, 4 cyl auto	28	34	30	$193	$2,310	$1,155
Gas	Small Cars	2012	Nissan	Sentra	2.0 L, 4 cyl auto	27	34	30	$193	$2,310	$1,155
Gas	Small Cars	2012	Subaru	Impresa AWD	2.0 L, 4 cyl auto	27	36	30	$193	$2,310	$1,155
Gas	Small Cars	2012	Toyota	Corolla	1.8 L, 4 cyl mnl	27	34	30	$193	$2,310	$1,155
Gas	Small Cars	2012	Chevrolet	Cruze	1.8 L, 4 cyl mnl	25	36	29	$199	$2,390	$1,075
Gas	Small Cars	2012	Chevrolet	Sonic	1.8 L, 4 cyl mnl	26	35	29	$199	$2,390	$1,075
Gas	Small Cars	2012	Honda	Fit	1.5 L, 4 cyl mnl	27	33	29	$199	$2,390	$1,075
Gas	Small Cars	2012	Kia	Forte	2.0 L, 4 cyl auto	26	36	29	$199	$2,390	$1,075
Gas	Small Cars	2012	Mitsubishi	Lancer	2.0 L, 4 cyl auto	26	34	29	$199	$2,390	$1,075
Gas	Small Cars	2012	Scion	xD	1.8 L, 4 cyl auto	27	33	29	$199	$2,390	$1,075
Gas	Small Cars	2012	Scion	xD	1.8 L, 4 cyl mnl	27	33	29	$199	$2,390	$1,075
Gas	Small Cars	2012	Toyota	Corolla	1.8 L, 4 cyl auto	26	34	29	$199	$2,390	$1,075
Gas	Small Cars	2012	Chevrolet	Sonic	1.8 L, 4 cyl auto	25	35	28	$206	$2,475	$990
Gas	Small Cars	2012	Nissan	Versa	1.8 L, 4 cyl mnl	26	31	28	$206	$2,475	$990

1) Estimated with a gas price/gallon of $3.85 and 1,500 miles driven per month.
2) Compared to a 20 MPG vehicle under identical driving conditions.

Diesel used to be most known as the fuel of choice for 16-wheelers and big rigs, but its cleaner burning properties (compared to regular gas) has turned the tide in its favor. Don’t let its higher per gallon cost sway you – diesel is 20-40% more fuel efficient, so you’ll fill up less often and, due to its intrinsic properties, generate less greenhouses gases (more on gas mileage comparisons).

While the selection of diesel vehicles isn’t quite there yet (at least in the U.S.), every diesel we’ve driven has handled just as good (if not better) than its gas counterpart.  Expect diesel vehicles to continue to increase in popularity, so if you like staying ahead of the curve, diesels have a high satisfaction rate and their price tags keep dropping.  Just make sure you know a good diesel mechanic if/when the time comes.

Diesel Vehicles – MPG & Cost Analysis

Category	Class	Year	Make	Model	Options	City (MPG)	Hwy (MPG)	Total (MPG)	Fuel cost /mo(1)	Fuel cost /yr(1)	Save /yr(2)
Diesel	Cars	2012	Volkswagen	Passat	2.0 L, 4 cyl mnl	31	43	35	$174	$2,083	$1,382
Diesel	Cars	2012	Audi	A3	2.0 L, 4 cyl auto	30	42	34	$179	$2,144	$1,321
Diesel	Cars	2012	Volkswagen	Golf	2.0 L, 4 cyl auto	30	42	34	$179	$2,144	$1,321
Diesel	Cars	2012	Volkswagen	Golf	2.0 L, 4 cyl mnl	30	42	34	$179	$2,144	$1,321
Diesel	Cars	2012	Volkswagen	Jetta	2.0 L, 4 cyl auto	30	42	34	$179	$2,144	$1,321
Diesel	Cars	2012	Volkswagen	Jetta	2.0 L, 4 cyl mnl	30	42	34	$179	$2,144	$1,321
Diesel	Cars	2012	Volkswagen	Jetta SportWagen	2.0 L, 4 cyl mnl	30	42	34	$179	$2,144	$1,321
Diesel	Cars	2012	Volkswagen	Passat	2.0 L, 4 cyl auto	30	40	34	$179	$2,144	$1,321
Diesel	Cars	2012	Volkswagen	Jetta SportWagen	2.0 L, 4 cyl auto	29	39	33	$184	$2,209	$1,256
Diesel	Cars	2012	Mercedes	E350 Bluetec	3.0 L, 6 cyl auto	21	32	25	$243	$2,916	$549
Diesel	Cars	2012	Mercedes	E350 Bluetec 4matic	3.0 L, 6 cyl auto	21	31	25	$243	$2,916	$549

1) Estimated with a diesel price/gallon of $4.05 and 1,500 miles driven per month.
2) Compared to a 20 MPG vehicle under identical driving conditions.

Over the past decade, hybrid vehicles have come a long way.    They used to be slow, eye-sores and just not that fun to drive.   More recently, though, the majority of manufacturers have jumped into the hybrid fray, either with their flagship models or similar iterations.    Among the 2012 models, not surprisingly, the Toyota Prius and Honda Civic/Insight provide the most fuel efficiency and projected savings.  If cost is your top concern, a Toyota or Honda is probably your safest bet.  However, there’s plenty of luxury and kick in the hybrid class these days, so make sure you take a few for a spin before making a decision.

Hybrid Vehicle MPG & Cost Analysis

Category	Class	Year	Make	Model	Options	City (MPG)	Hwy (MPG)	Total (MPG)	Fuel cost /mo(1)	Fuel cost /yr(1)	Save /yr(2)
Hybrid	Small Cars	2012	Toyota	Priuis c	1.5 L, 4 cyl auto	53	46	50	$116	$1,386	$2,079
Hybrid	Small Cars	2012	Toyota	Priuis	1.8 L, 4 cyl auto	51	48	50	$116	$1,386	$2,079
Hybrid	Small Cars	2012	Honda	Civic Hybrid	1.5 L, 4 cyl auto	44	44	44	$131	$1,575	$1,890
Hybrid	Small Cars	2012	Honda	Insight	1.3 L, 4 cyl auto (var)	41	44	42	$138	$1,650	$1,815
Hybrid	Small Cars	2012	Honda	Insight	1.3 L, 4 cyl auto (AV)	41	44	42	$138	$1,650	$1,815
Hybrid	Small Cars	2012	Lexus	CT 200h	1.8 L, 4 cyl auto	43	40	42	$138	$1,650	$1,815
Hybrid	Sedans	2012	Toyota	Camry Hybrid LE	2.5 L, 4 cyl auto	43	39	41	$141	$1,690	$1,775
Hybrid	Sedans	2012	Toyota	Camry Hybrid XLE	2.5 L, 4 cyl auto	40	38	40	$144	$1,733	$1,733
Hybrid	Sedans	2012	Ford	Fusion Hybrid FWD	2.5 L, 4 cyl auto	41	36	39	$148	$1,777	$1,688
Hybrid	Luxury Sedans	2012	Lincoln	MKZ Hybrid FWD	2.5 L, 4 cyl auto	41	36	39	$148	$1,777	$1,688
Hybrid	Small Cars	2012	Honda	CR-Z	1.5 L, 4 cyl auto	35	39	37	$156	$1,873	$1,592
Hybrid	Sedans	2012	Hyundai	Sonata Hybrid	2.4 L, 4 cyl auto	35	40	37	$156	$1,873	$1,592
Hybrid	Sedans	2012	Kia	Optima Hybrid	2.4 L, 4 cyl auto	35	40	37	$156	$1,873	$1,592
Hybrid	Luxury Sedans	2012	Lexus	HS 250h	2.4 L, 4 cyl auto	35	34	35	$165	$1,980	$1,485
Hybrid	Small Cars	2012	Honda	CR-Z	1.5 L, 4 cyl mnl	31	37	34	$170	$2,038	$1,427
Hybrid	SUVs	2012	Ford	Escape Hybrid FWD	2.5 L, 4 cyl auto	34	31	32	$180	$2,166	$1,299
Hybrid	SUVs	2012	Lexus	RX 450h	3.5 L, 6 cyl auto	32	28	30	$193	$2,310	$1,155
Hybrid	Sedans	2012	Buick	LaCrosse Hybrid	2.4 L, 4 cyl auto	25	36	29	$199	$2,390	$1,075
Hybrid	Sedans	2012	Buick	Regal Hybrid	2.4 L, 4 cyl auto	25	36	29	$199	$2,390	$1,075
Hybrid	Sedans	2012	Chevrolet	Malibu eAssist	2.4 L, 4 cyl auto	25	37	29	$199	$2,390	$1,075
Hybrid	SUVs	2012	Ford	Escape Hybrid AWD	2.5 L, 4 cyl auto	30	27	29	$199	$2,390	$1,075
Hybrid	Luxury Sedans	2012	Infiniti	M35h	3.5 L, 6 cyl auto	27	32	29	$199	$2,390	$1,075
Hybrid	SUVs	2012	Lexus	RX 450h AWD	3.5 L, 6 cyl auto	30	28	29	$199	$2,390	$1,075
Hybrid	SUVs	2012	Toyota	Highlander Hybrid 4WD	3.5 L, 6 cyl auto	28	28	28	$206	$2,475	$990
Hybrid	Luxury Sedans	2012	Porsche	Panamera S Hybrid	3.0 L, 6 cyl auto	22	30	25	$231	$2,772	$693
Hybrid	SUVs	2012	Cadillac	Escalade Hybrid 2WD	6.0 L, 8 cyl auto	20	23	21	$275	$3,300	$165
Hybrid	SUVs	2012	Cadillac	Escalade Hybrid 4WD	6.0 L, 8 cyl auto	20	23	21	$275	$3,300	$165
Hybrid	Pickups	2012	Chevrolet	Silverado 15 Hybrid 2WD	6.0 L, 8 cyl auto	20	23	21	$275	$3,300	$165
Hybrid	Pickups	2012	Chevrolet	Silverado 15 Hybrid 4WD	6.0 L, 8 cyl auto	20	23	21	$275	$3,300	$165
Hybrid	SUVs	2012	Chevrolet	Tahoe Hybrid 2WD	6.0 L, 8 cyl auto	20	23	21	$275	$3,300	$165
Hybrid	SUVs	2012	Chevrolet	Tahoe Hybrid 4WD	6.0 L, 8 cyl auto	20	23	21	$275	$3,300	$165
Hybrid	Pickups	2012	GMC	Sierra 15 Hybrid 2WD	6.0 L, 8 cyl auto	20	23	21	$275	$3,300	$165
Hybrid	Pickups	2012	GMC	Sierra 15 Hybrid 4WD	6.0 L, 8 cyl auto	20	23	21	$275	$3,300	$165
Hybrid	SUVs	2012	GMC	Yukon 1500 Hybrid 2WD	6.0 L, 8 cyl auto	20	23	21	$275	$3,300	$165
Hybrid	SUVs	2012	GMC	Yukon 1500 Hybrid 4WD	6.0 L, 8 cyl auto	20	23	21	$275	$3,300	$165
Hybrid	SUVs	2012	GMC	Yukon Denali 1500 Hybrid 4WD	6.0 L, 8 cyl auto	20	23	21	$275	$3,300	$165
Hybrid	Luxury Sedans	2012	Mercedes	S400 Hybrid	3.5 L, 6 cyl auto	19	25	21	$275	$3,300	$165
Hybrid	SUVs	2012	Porsche	Cayenne S Hybrid	3.0 L, 6 cyl auto	20	24	21	$275	$3,300	$165
Hybrid	SUVs	2012	Volkswagen	Touareg Hybrid	3.0 L, 6 cyl auto	20	24	21	$275	$3,300	$165
Hybrid	Luxury Sedans	2012	BMW	Active Hybrid 7	4.4 L, 8 cyl auto	17	24	20	$289	$3,465	$0
Hybrid	Luxury Sedans	2012	BMW	Active Hybrid 7L	4.4 L, 8 cyl auto	17	24	20	$289	$3,465	$0
Hybrid	Luxury Sedans	2012	Lexus	LS 600h L	5.0 L, 8 cyl auto	19	23	20	$289	$3,465	$0

1) Estimated with a gas price/gallon of $3.85 and 1,500 miles driven per month.
2) Compared to a 20 MPG vehicle under identical driving conditions.

Gas prices don’t appear to be dropping anytime soon, so it’s more important than ever to find a fuel-efficient vehicle. Small cars tend to have the best mileage (due to weight and shape) so if you’re looking to downsize with your next car, here’s a list of the 2012 small cars with the best gas mileage: Note: this list will NOT include electric vehicles (look out for that list soon).

2012 Ford Fiesta FWD – With a combined MPG of 33 (weighted average of city and highway), the Fiesta is a sporty, economical little vehicle.

MPG (city): 29
MPG (highway): 40
Passenger space: 85ft³
Tank size: 12.0 gallons
Estimated annual fuel cost: $1450

2012 Chevy Sonic 5 – as eluded by its name, the Sonic packs a punch all in a fun little ride. The 4 cylinder, 1.4L manual transmission model gives you the most economical ride.

MPG (city): 29
MPG (highway): 40
Passenger space: 91ft³
Tank size: 12.2 gallons
Estimated annual fuel cost: $1450

2012 Scion iQ – now you’re talking small. Officially in the “minicompact” EPA category, this mini hugs the road and packs a 1.3L, 4 cylinder engine. With an impressive city MPG of 36 and comfortable front-wheel drive steering, it’s a nice step up for Toyota.

MPG (city): 36
MPG (highway): 37
Passenger space: 74ft³
Tank size: 12.2 gallons
Estimated annual fuel cost: $1450

» Overall, the Scion has the best aggregate gas mileage.

2012 Hyundai Accent – with an average MPG of 34 and the lowest base price in this list (~$12.4k), the Accent excels in most of the key specs without giving up too much in style and quality.

MPG (city): 30
MPG (highway): 40
Passenger space: 89ft³
Tank size: 11.4 gallons
Estimated annual fuel cost: $1423

Editor’s pick for 2012 (small car division).

In all, more and more drivers are giving small cars a second look these days. They won’t dominate a road like a sports car or SUV, but it’ll make you pocketbook quite happy. A few tips while performing a gas mileage comparison: make sure you focus on the exact engine type and size (small variations can change the final MPG). Also, consider the trunk space — most MPG-conscious manufacturers need to sacrifice weight/space wherever possible and the trunk is often a primary target. If you consistently need the extra room, make sure you give the trunk space a proper look in person before you buy.

Every year, manufacturers continue to push the envelope with gas efficiency. 2012 was no different as it brought in a new set of small cars with the best gas mileage for their respective classes. As a consumer, it’s always a balancing act between gas efficiency and ease (or fun) of driving. Fortunately, manufacturers are slowly bridging that gap and this year’s class is quite evident of that. Good luck with your search and enjoy your savings!

Lexus RX 450h

For a luxury vehicle, the Lexus RX 450 gas mileage is surprisingly very good. With a costly price tag however, it’s not for everyone. As far as capacity goes, it can even compete with some hybrids and smaller-engine sedans, with 32 miles per gallon for the highway and 28 miles per gallon within the city. That means a 30 MPG average for your Lexus RX 450.

Popular Mechanics magazine is excited about the Lexus RX 450 gas mileage and for good reason. Apart from its efficiency, its editors also noted the “understated appearance” which runs contrary to its many features. The U.S. News & World Report, meanwhile, ranks it fifth among the luxury mid-size SUV. Interestingly enough, it was outpaced in the same rankings by its twin brother the 2011 Lexus RX 350.

The understated appearance of the The RX 450 doesn’t do justice to its posh interior and excellent performance on the road. It’s best to consider these factors, along with the Lexus RX 450 gas mileage, when taking its suggested price of $43,235 in perspective. Remember the gas-only RX 350? you could probably save a few thousand dollars more but consider that you get only 18 miles per gallon in the city and 25 MPG on the highway and you can readily compute the savings.

The US Department of Energy places the annual cost of fuel at current Lexus RX 450 gas mileage performance at $2,086 assuming a 45% highway driving and 55% city driving for an annual trip of 15,000 miles. Compared that to a Lexus RX 350 where you would spend $800 more every year.

The question on whether or not the SUV is a gas guzzler, the US Department of Energy has a one-word answer: no. The Lexus RX 450 gas mileage performance is also heavily dependent on the tank size which can reach nearly 20 gallons for arange of more than 360 miles on a full tank.

While consumers can benefit from the Lexus RX 450 gas mileage, there’s another incentive—they can even boast of helping the environment by driving an SUV.  Even if its V6 engine can produce up to 295 horsepower, it’s rated as an Ultra Low Emission Vehicle, one of the most favorable of compliments a vehicle can get.

Its hybrid engine can run both on gasoline and electricity, although for now one can only drive in spurts using electric power alone. And perhaps that’s another incentive, when the Lexus RX 450 gas mileage fails you, there’s backup power since the transition between two options is unnoticeable.

This vehicle emminates luxury, even if that term is not consistent with its appearance. And perhaps if you have to be picky, you may remark on the lack of distinction on its exterior. But consider this: When you combine the power and efficiency of the hybrid engine with the quality and comfort inherent in a Lexus, the result would be the Lexus RX 450 gas mileage saver.

Since 2001 the Ford Escape gas mileage has evolved right along with the SUV itself. The SUV was first introduced in the 2001 in the United States. In 2004 Ford came out with the first Hybrid SUV Escape, which took the world by storm. Not only was it the first SUV hybrid, but the first American made hybrid to be offered, along with Chevrolet Silverado, who introduced theirs the same year. The Hybrid Escape is powered by both gas and electric was introduced to offset the pollution created by traditional SUV’s. The Hybrid Ford Escape gas electric powered vehicle was built in Kansas City, Missouri.

The Ford Escape gas electric hybrid is a full hybrid. This means that the vehicle can automatically switch between all electric power, all gas power, or combine the two for the most effective results. When you break or slow down the Ford Escape uses regenerative braking, which is where the electric drive motor becomes a generator. The motor acting as a generator converts the vehicles momentum back to stored energy for the vehicle to use later. Between the gas and electric it has 155 hp, almost giving it the same performance as the traditional V6 Escape. The power and performance of the Ford Escape’s gas mileage easily matches up to other SUV’s of its class.

The Hybrid Ford Escape not only ranks high among the performance class of SUV’s, it also ranks on the top for safety.  The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration crash test ratings gave the Escape five of five stars for  Rear side and Front side impact protection. The Frontal driver and Frontal passenger both got four out of five stars for crash protection.

Ford ended up building four times the originally planned amount of Hybrid Ford Escape gas electric powered SUV’s in the second half of 2004, about 17,000 vehicles. In 2005 the Ford Escape Hybrid won the North American Truck of the Year award. The taxicab services in many large cities began to appreciate the economic upside of the Ford Escape’s gas mileage. The SUV became the most popular hybrid very quickly.

The newest versions of the Hybrid Ford Escape for 2010-2011 offers the same dependable under the hood dynamics with a little more power, and the Escape now offers more visual appeal and more for the driver’s pleasure. Outside only slight modifications were to the front end; making some changes to the bumper and headlights. Inside is where the changes are more numerous like the Sync voice control system, heated seats and a hyped up stereo system. The newest version of the Hybrid Ford Escape offers a capless fuel filler system.

The dependability of the Hybrid Ford Escape will ​guarantee you will enjoy your experience while riding in the SUV. Gas prices today make owning a hybrid a much more attractive thought. The Hybrid Ford Escape gas electric powered vehicle is one way to feel good about saving money on gas and saving the environment.

If you’re driving from gas station to gas station performing a gas price comparison before you fill your tank, you will notice one thing, gas is expensive everywhere you go. What happens when gas prices go up? The cost of everything goes up. Unfortunately we as a nation are completely dependent on gas. Our dependency means that the law of supply and demand is in full force more than ever. The more we use and demand gas, the more the government can charge. Our dependency on gas means that we will pay whatever outrageous price they charge, we have no choice.

When you look at gas price comparisons in the last five years, the national gas price average has fluxuated over $2.00 per gallon in just one year. We have seen record high gas prices in the same year that we’ve seen a record low for the last decade. We have been on the rise for the last three months, showing gas price comparison with an increase of almost $1.00 per gallon nationwide. The price per barrel of crude is not rising, supporting the theory that the law of supply and demand is driving up our national average gas price.

If you are a traveler, then you will also notice that states that generally have lower gas prices now measure up with the national average for gas prices. There is no such thing as cheap gas anymore. Locally, before you fill up again, keep in mind if you do find it cheaper, it may be for a reason. Gas stations have been known to water down their gas to increase profit. This can have a significant negative impact on the performance of your vehicle. So beware of too far below average gas prices you do find.

As you watch the gas price comparisons rise, how will it affect those of you who enjoy traveling? There are some options which you can consider that will allow you to continue exploring new adventures:

• You can park your vehicle and learn to enjoy the local recreations. This is a great opportunity to challenge yourself to find local entertainment. There are many hidden treasures in your area that you may have to dig to find, but are well worth the work.
• You can also plan to spend more and head on down the road. If you save more for your trips and can afford the difference, then keep on traveling. The key here is to manage your budget and not let your budget manage you.
• You could also consider it a great time to trade in the gas guzzler you have been driving and upgrade to a hybrid vehicle. Almost every car manufacturer offers hybrid cars that are stylish and affordable. This option means no more gas price comparison for you.

The fact is that as long as we continue to be so dependent on gas the national gas price comparison will continue to rise each year and we will pay whatever they charge​.

Some people are rather impressed with the 2011 Toyota RAV4 2WD gas mileage. While the magazine Popular Mechanics, only ranks the compact crossover SUV at 10, beating the Honda CR-V. In terms of pricing, it’s reasonably average, which is in the low $20,000 range although just a bit more pricey compared to the 2011 Jeep Patriot (the cheapest of the 10 ranked SUVs), 2011 Hyundai Tucson, 2011 Kia Sportage and the Mitsubshi Outlander.

For now, manufacturers may be satisfied with that because the vehicle was really built to compete with the CR-V. Toyota has never concealed its goal of creating a vehicle with a snazzier look than the CR-V with slightly better fuel economy.

For an SUV, the 2011 Toyota RAV4 2WD gas mileage is still right up there, with a capacity of burning 10.98 kilometers per liter or about 28 miles per gallon on a highway or 22 miles per gallon if you are just downtown using front-wheel drive. If you are on an all-wheel drive, just subtract one mile for each gallon to the total average.

Since it’s inception, the Toyota RAV4 series has always consistently ranked well in terms of fuel efficiency. That, along with its sleek design, made it one of the most popular vehicles in its class in the US. Not many people know it but RAV stands for “Recreational Active Vehicle” while the attached “4” refers to the 4-wheel drive. It was the first of its line for Toyota when it introduced the vehicle to Japan and Europe simultaneously in 1994, reaching the shores of North America two years later.

Manufacturers designed the RAV4 for consumers looking for more cargo room, good visibility or a 4-wheel drive option. The good consumer reception of RAV4 prompted other manufacturers to build other compact SUVs such as the Subaru Forester and Ford Escape.

The US Department of Energy says in its website that the Toyota RAV4 2WD gas mileage for 4-cylinder 2.5L automatic will average 24 miles per gallon. That means the owner can expect $2,371 in a annual fuel cost assuming that more than half of the driving occurs on city limits and traveled about 15,000 miles on its current capacity.

The 6-cylinder, 3.5-L 5-speed automatic class, however, has a combined capacity of 22 (or 19 within city limits and 27 miles per gallon on a highway) and that should cost the owner around $2,587 based on the same assumptions for the Toyota RAV4 2WD gas mileage capacity, the US Department of Energy adds.

Comparing the 2011 Toyota RAV4 2WD gas mileage with its predecessor has shown that the extended gas mileage is still very competitve. The 2011 class, however, has several modifications including the 17-inch five-spoke alluminum wheels, 6 CD player with XM satellite radio, new interior, electronic brake-override system and other accessories.

Most car experts think the Toyota RAV4 2WD gas mileage is “above average.” RAV4 devotees point to the fact that the vehicle serves its purpose very well particularly for the off-road requirements of the consumers. ​

News reports show gas prices could jump to well over $5 a gallon this summer,  so it’s a must for today’s cost-conscious driver:  cars with best gas mileage. Projections state that there will be less traveling this summer, due to high gas costs. However many of us must travel 30 plus minutes one way to work, we can’t skip work because of fuel costs. Many people live outside of where regular modes of mass transportation options are available such as bus and rail. We are left with no other option but to pay the high gas expense to get to work every day. Driving one of the cars with the best gas mileage will help absorb the high gas costs of our everyday commute to and from work. Here is a list of some of the top mileage small cars  in 2011:

2011 Kia Rio – the price starts at $12,295. The Kia Rio gets 34 mpg on the highway and 28 mpg in the city, giving it an overall of 31 mpg. The Kia Rio tops the 2011 small cars with the best mileage list in the number one spot.

2011 Mazda Mazda2 – the price starts at $14,180. The Mazda Mazda2 gets 35 mpg on the highway and 29 mpg in the city, giving it an overall of 32 mpg. The Mazda Mazda2 ranks number two in the small cars with the best mileage list.

2011 Toyota Yaris – the price starts at $12,855. The Toyota Yaris gets 36 mpg on the highway and 29 mpg in the city, giving it an overall of 32 mpg.

2011 MINI Cooper – the price starts at $20,100. The MINI Cooper gets 37 mpg on the highway and 29 mpg in the city, giving it an overall of 32 mpg.

2011 Hyundai Elantra – the price starts at $15,550. The Hyundai Elantra gets 40 mpg on highway and 29 mpg in the city, giving it an overall of 33 mpg.

2011 Ford Fiesta – with SFE package, has a starting price of $13,320. The Ford Fiesta gets 40 mpg on the highway and 29 mpg in the city, giving it an overall of 33mpg.

2011 Volkswagen Jetta TDI – has a starting price of $22,995. The Volkswagen Jetta TDI gets 42 mpg on the highway and 30 mpg in the city, giving it an overall of 34 mpg.

For those of us that have a long commute to work every day or that travel for a living the 2011 small cars with the best gas mileage list is a great opportunity to find a car that fits our needs and budgets. These cars provide us an economical solution to overcome the extreme jump in gas prices to come, and the quality vehicle we want to drive. When it’s all about the cars with best gas mileage for 2011 be sure to consider the price verses the mileage, because you shouldn’t have to pay thousands more to save.