Hybrids are all the rage among consumers who are looking to get the most fuel efficient travel. What about those who prefer not to go the hybrid route? There are still a few cars that come in very fuel efficient but are not part of the hybrid craze. For those who prefer the traditional automobile, here are a few that will help you to save on fuel costs without taking a ride on the hybrid train. Those on the list get about 40 mpg on highway driving. Although they may not be the best choice for fuel efficiency in the city versus hybrids, they are certainly a good choice for those who tend to travel longer distances.
Affordable Fuel-efficient Car #1- Â Chevy Cruze Eco
The Cruze Eco by Chevrolet gives you a 1.4 liter turbocharged gasoline engine which enables it to provide more than 40 mpg on highways. You get 42 mpg actually thanks to a few subtle changes to the gears and aerodynamics of the 2012 model. This is the most fuel efficient non-diesel and non-hybrid vehicle on the market. With a downsized engine and aerodynamics that scream fuel efficiency, the Chevrolet Cruze Eco tops the list for the lowest fuel usage in a non-hybrid vehicle. MSRP $17,130.
Affordable Fuel-efficient Car #2- Volkswagen Passat TDI
The 2012 Volkswagen Passat TDI hits the second place on our list. With a 2.0 liter turbocharged diesel engine, you get about 43 mpg on the highway and this one offers a bit more fuel efficiency than some smaller vehicles and gives you much more room inside. If you need to take a long trip and want a bit of extra leg room, this is certainly the best choice. Those looking for a diesel engine that will get excellent mileage will find the 2010 Passat TDI to be a great vehicle. From $20,845
Affordable Fuel-efficient Car #3- Honda Civic HF
2012 was obviously a good year for fuel efficient non-hybrids. Another on the list is the 2012 Honda Civic HF. This one missed out on the top slot by just 1 mpg. With a combined mpg rating of 33, it gets an average of 40 mpg on highways thanks to a 1.8 liter gasoline powered engine. A few tweaks here and there, including a bit of alteration to the aerodynamics of the vehicle allows it to flow more smoothly on the highways and the low resistance tires make for a very comfortable drive. While it may not be the most exciting vehicle with regards to looks, it certainly holds its own when it comes to mileage. MSRP- $19,605
Affordable Fuel-efficient Car #4- Fiat 500
Finally, the newly redesigned 2013 Fiat 500 is an excellent choice for those looking for a mini-car with excellent mileage. The newest changes to the 2013 model help it to achieve 40 mpg on highways and a combined 34 mpg. Instead of including a lot of bells and whistles, the Fiat 500 offers a simplistic design that uses traditional technology to improve overall mileage. A lighter body and smaller engine make it one of the most fuel efficient cars on the highway. If you do not mind the retro look, you are sure to enjoy the fuel savings with the 2013 Fiat 500. [Editor’s Note: I love this Fiat Commercial!]
Summary
There are many fuel efficient cars that are not hybrids. While these may be the top of the list, others can pull in about 35 to 40 mpg on highways as well. The 2012 Dodge Dart Aero just missed the list and offers a combined mpg of 32 with highway mpg of 40. If you are not looking to purchase a hybrid but you definitely want to save on fuel costs, any of these models would be a great choice.
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