In a world where gas mileage has become everything it is necessary to save every last drop of precious petroleum. This list was created to help you do just that while at the same time warn you about possible issues with each model. After all, gas mileage may seem to be the premier issue but if repairs become a common routine, savings will be pennies at best. These cars are currently in production. Some 2009s are listed along with 2008s. Just because the 2009 version of a car is not listed also is not necessarily because the fuel economy has dropped. Most 2009s, with the exception of the American cars, have not been released just yet. However, make sure before purchasing a newer model that its fuel economy is still good as some have fallen. # 1: 2008 Toyota Prius MSRP: $21,500 Standard features: 1.5L I4 hybrid, Automatic Fuel efficiency: 48/45/46 The Toyota Prius is one of the better selling automobiles in the American market due to its hybrid technology and resulting fuel economy. Though consumer reviews seem steadily high no matter where you inquire, car experts seem less than impressed. Certainly the fuel mileage is a plus, but many car experts find fault in its poor design, both interior and exterior, and its lack of power compared to its hybrid competitors. The interior is mostly cheaper plastic components, however it does allow for a great deal of room. The turning radius is another positive area making it much easier to maneuver in tight spaces than others. # 2: 2008 Honda Civic Hybrid MSRP: $22,600 Standard features: 1.3L I4 hybrid, Automatic Fuel efficiency: 40/45/42.5 The Honda Civic Hybrid is another Japanese hybrid that bodes well in the American market, but does not sit quite well with experts. Though it does have better performance than the more sluggish Prius, it does still lack the oomph many will get from other hybrids. With slightly more attractive interior and exterior design the Civic Hybrid is sure to pull over many potential hybrid consumers concerned with economy. The Civic is not quite as friendly to your wallet as the Prius and will run you about $1,100 more in the showroom. If willing to sacrifice maybe a mpg or so, the Civic will be more worth your investment. Once again the world’s original fuel friendly vehicle, the Civic, makes even more friends. # 3: 2008 Smart Fortwo MSRP: $11,590 Standard features: 1.0L I3, Manual Fuel efficiency: 33/41/37 The “Smart car” opened peoples eyes when introduced roughly two years ago. It is a Category:Home › Home • Will higher gasoline prices mean lower sales for new cars? — part 2 • Will higher gasoline prices mean lower sales for new cars? — part 1 • Should the crew of the Sea Shepherd board whaling ships? • Which makes a better pet: A dog or a cat? — part 13 • Grandparents: Can blogging chronicle your genealogy? • Which makes a better pet: A dog or a cat? — part 12 • Are teachers unions the cause of public school problems today? • Which makes a better pet: A dog or a cat? — part 11