The gas-savers take center stage

IT'S that time of the year again when automakers roll out their new lineup for 2007. And with the price of gasoline skyrocketing, new car buyers are looking for the most fuel-efficient vehicles they can find.

As was the case during the gas shortage of the '70s, more people are seeking to get the most for their gas dollar, and that means smaller, less powerful vehicles that provide more miles per gallon. There are a number of choices that can satisfy the gas-conscious shopper, beginning with a vehicle such as the Toyota Prius, which is considered to be the most fuel-efficient car available because it delivers 60 miles per gallon on the highway and 51 miles per gallon in the city.

The Prius, which has quickly become the creme-de-la-creme of gas-savers, is representative of the growing popularity of hybrids, vehicles that are powered by gas and electricity, and provide more mileage than conventional gas-only autos. That popularity has prompted practically every major automaker to produce its own version of the fuel-savers, which come in different sizes, including sport utility vehicles, and provide different levels of fuel savings that, analysts say, are better than comparable-sized gas vehicles.

Even though fuel efficiency is at the top of the list for most car buyers, they don't want to give up comfort, safety and handling while trying to avoid the pain at the pump. With that in mind, American and foreign automakers have manufactured several vehicles that can satisfy the multiple needs of educated drivers, In addition to the appeal of the vehicle itself, buyers are also making their choices based on the best warranty and roadside assistance packages available.

While there is a continued focus on getting the most miles per gallon, there are still some car buyers who have other preferences (larger cars) in make, design and performance. And in this year's lineup, manufacturers have tried to make sure that there's something for everybody.

10 MORE GAS-SAVERS

NAME & ESTIMATED MPG CITY/HIGHWAY

VOLKSWAGEN GOLF TDI 37/44 TOYOTA MATRIX 30/36 PONTIAC VIBE 30/36 VOLKSWAGEN JETTA TDI 36/41 HYUNDAI ACCENT 32/35 SCION xA 32/37 CHEVROLET COBALT 25/34 MINI COOPER 28/36 MAZDA 3 28/35 KIA RIO 29/38

THE ALL NEW Nissan Versa Hatch (top) is among vehicles that deliver excellent Fuel economy with its 38 miles per gallon. Others include the Chevrolet Aveo (27/35 mpg) and below) the popular Ford Focus, which has an estimated 26/35 mpg.

IN THIS ERA WHEN MANY CAR BUYERS are searching for the Most fuel-efficient vehicles on the market, luxury sedans still Appeal to many drivers. The full-size cars include the Chrysler 300C (top), Cadillac CTS (left), Lincoln MKZ (below, left) and (bottom, left) the Audi S8. The smaller vehicles that also provide some luxury and new features are the Infinity G35 (below) and (bottom) the Chrysler Sebring.

POPULAR MODELS that combine performance and style include the Toyota Camry (top), he top-selling car in the country for four consecutive years and eight of the past nine years. Other car buyers favorites that have renewed styling, enhanced technology, and multiple features and options include (clockwise from left) the Pontiac G6, Buick Lucerne, Chevrolet Impala, Honda Accord and the Nissan Altima, which has become a popular choice for men and women.

FOR A LITTLE FLAIR AND SPORTINESS, the Saturn Sky Red Line (left) leads the way. Driving enthusiasts are attracted by the roadster's dynamic design, striking profile and agile performance. Other models that command road presence include (clockwise, below) Ford's Shelby GT 500, BMW 3 Series coupe, Volvo C70, Audi Cabriolet A4 and the sleek and classy Jaguar XKR.

THE MID-SIZE UTILITY VEHICLES combine comfort, reliability and practicality in one package. The new Lincoln MKX (top), which seats five passengers, offers a carlike ride and impressive fuel economy. Also appealing to a new generation of utility-vehicle lovers are (counterclockwise from top, left) the GMC Envoy, which has a new feature to help drivers maintain control during sudden maneuvers; the all-new Land Rover Freelander 2, which delivers on-road and off-road performance; the Saturn Vue Green Line Hybrid, the Volvo V50, which is described as "Volvo's most attainable sports-wagon"; and the Chrysler Aspen, which is Chrysler's first SUV.

THE JEEP WRANGLER UNLIMITED (above) is Described as "the most capable off-road vehicle in the world--and more." It has an all-new frame, Exterior, and safety and convenience features. At left, the Subaru Tribeca is a mid-size sport utility vehicle with crossover appeal based on the "progressive SUV" concept. The Dodge Nitro (below, left) offers all of the mid-size SUV must-haves, including space, functionality and flexibility.

DRIVERS who are partial to the roominess, luxury and performance of mid-size and larger utility vehicles have a multitude of choices, including (below) the Chevrolet Tahoe and (clockwise from above) the BMW X5, the Audi Q7, the Cadillac Escalade, the Ford Expedition and the Lincoln Navigator, which combines power and refinement for the luxury SUV customer.

COPYRIGHT 2006 Johnson Publishing Co.
COPYRIGHT 2008 Gale, Cengage Learning