Fuel Efficient Cars that Don't Cost a Lot


Resources for the Washington DC area

High Mileage Cars That Are Alternatives to Hybrids

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Since gas has shot up in price in late Summer 2005, lots of people are thinking about cars that get good gas mileage. But since there aren't that many hybrid models to choose from, many people may want an efficient regular model. There's some good ones to choose from.

Honda makes a version of the Civic called the Value Package. With an automatic transmission, it's EPA rated at 29 city and 38 highway. With side air bags (SAB), it starts at about $15,000.

The Honda Civic combines reliability with economy (LX model shown).

Like a lot of Honda models, the Civic, if equipped with optional side air bags, gets a five star rating on the government's crash test for both front and side impacts. Civics also attain a ULEV (Ultra Low Emission Vehicle) rating, which is a little bit hard to find without getting a hybrid.

The Toyota Corolla S models achieve a 30/38 EPA rating with an automatic transmission. With a 126 HP engine, you don't sacrifice a spirited ride for efficiency. To get side curtain airbags, you're starting at about $19,000.

If you want something a little bigger, the Honda Accord with a four cylinder engine might be a good choice. Rated 26/34, it's a solid citizen in the car world. With side air bags, NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) gives it five stars for front and side impacts. Starting about $20,600 for the LX with Automatic transmission.

What if you want all wheel drive capability? One to consider is the Toyota Matrix. With optional AWD, it's rated at 26/31. It's been described as a bit noisy, so it may not be suited for everyone. If you want a little quieter ride, the Honda CR-V, Subaru Outback or Toyota RAV4 are available with AWD and get pretty good mileage. The Matrix is a model jointly developed by GM and Toyota, so a similar model is available as the Pontiac Vibe. The Pontiac version would be available with OnStar if you want that. The Matrix with AWD starts around $17,700.

Happy shopping!

August 2005