This market segment has become very competitive, as more car owners are looking at smaller cars for their next purchase. Car manufacturers are promising a new level of fuel efficiency for the next generation of cars which will drive a race to the bottom. Here are the ten lowest-priced, fuel-efficient new cars for 2009.
Toyota Prius
Remembered by many as the car that put hybrids on the mind of American consumers, the Prius still leads the field with it fast-moving innovation in electric battery technology and car design, becoming not only the top hybrid car, but also one of the most popular cars today. The hatchback body of the Prius provides practical, efficient aerodynamics while sporting a futuristic look. At 48 MPG, no other hybrid car today can beat what the Prius can deliver.
Honda Civic Hybrid
If the Toyota Prius is a consistent first-placer in any “fuel-efficiency” list, then you can say that the Honda Civic Hybrid always takes the second place. The Civic has built a large base of car owners for its stylish and practical designs packaged with a reasonable price. Honda then decided to push their hybrid engine with the Civic brand name, and it has stuck with it ever since. The hybrid version sports a 45 MPG rating on the highway and 40 MPG in the city. If you are a visitor in a city looking for a low price car rental with good looks and great fuel economy, then you should look for the Civic Hybrid.
Toyota Corolla
The Corolla is one of the most fuel-efficient cars that does not have a hybrid engine. While the Civic captures an image of great poise and practicality, the Corolla is known for being the most reliable and cost effective ever made – which is why you can always find this model in low price rental cars. The 2009 Toyota Corolla features a massive redesign from previous models, which includes more spacious interiors, better trims, and top-class fuel economy while maintaining its affordable cost and reliability standards. If you are looking for a car that will stick to your budget and won’t cost much in fuel and maintenance repairs, then the Corolla is for you.
Nissan Altima Hybrid
Although the Nissan Altima is available only in a few states, this car can well compete with the big names in hybrid cars. The Altima has a rating of at least 33 MPG in the highway and 35 MPG in the city, which not bad for a large car with 2.5 liter engine and 180-lb of torque. The Altima is 27 percent less efficient than the Prius, but it is good enough for people who want to combine engine power with impressive fuel efficiency. The Altima is perfect for those who need a mid-size, low price car rental while saving money on fuel.
Toyota Camry Hybrid
The Toyota Camry is known as the big brother of the Corolla. It still is the leading brand for large family sedans, and with the latest hybrid offering, car owners can benefit with better fuel economy combined with the features of the original Camry. The Camry is rated at 34 MPG on the highway and 33 MPG in the city.
Mini Cooper
The Mini Cooper shows us that not all cars need a hybrid engine to be efficient. This compact car is a hit for students, young professionals, and just about any prospective owner who wants a fun car. With a fuel efficiency rating of 37 MPG on the highway, this little car fares better than other top hybrid cars. Now, all we need is to wait for the hybrid version to enjoy even more fuel efficiency. The Mini Cooper is a great low price car rental for those who want a fun drive around the city.
Ford Focus
While American car manufacturers will admit that imported cars are more advanced in fuel efficiency technology, it does not mean that they can’t make one. One of the top American made fuel efficient cars is the Ford Focus. With a highway rating of 35 MPG and city rating of 24 MPG, Ford Focus lags behind the flagship hybrids of Japanese carmakers, although its cheap pricing and expansive interior make up for it.
Honda Civic GX
The Honda Civic GX is the first consumer grade car that runs on natural gas. Although this car is limited only to California and New York, the Civic GX runs using the cheaper natural gas. The gasoline costs less than a dollar per gallon, and a full tank of 8 gallons can travel approximately 170 miles. This means that car owners will only need $8 to fill up a tank lasting you 170 miles. Since there are no refilling stations for natural gas, the Civic GX can be refilled using a pump connected to your home gas line.
Honda Fit
The Fit is the top compact car offered by Honda. With more consumers preferring compact and sub-compacts to sedans, the Fit looks like to be a winner in this class with its competitive pricing, roomy interior, and excellent fuel economy. The Honda Fit has a rating of 34 MPG on the highway and 28 MPG in the city. The Fit is also a great low price car rental for those looking for a compact unit to get around the city efficiently.
Smart For Two
The Smart For Two is a 1.0 liter 3-cylinder engine that packs a great punch for its small size and cheap price. This car is the newest and the most interesting addition to the line of fuel-efficient cars for 2009. The minimalist two-seater layout and small rear engine will save owners a lot of money and space. Smart For Two runs at 41 MPG on the highway and 33 MPG on the city. If this European-designed car gets the same success in America, we might see more car manufacturers design smaller cars to catch up.
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