Fuel efficient cars, trucks and SUVs
Automobiles impact the environment in various ways. According to National Geographic, cars consume a lot of energy even before they make long road trips, with perhaps 80 to 90 percent of their environmental impact stemming from fuel consumption and emissions. These factors can increase air pollution levels and create greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change.
With this in mind, eco-friendly motorists are increasingly purchasing vehicles with smaller carbon footprints. These include makes and models that have stricter emissions control and vehicles that are more fuel-efficient. Hybrid or electric cars can often drive further before fueling or recharging than less efficient models.
When shopping for new or preowned vehicles, individuals can research cars and trucks that have earned high marks for fuel economy. Various organizations, including the U.S. Department of Energy, Consumer Reports and Kelly Blue Book, routinely rank vehicles based on gas mileage figures and emissions ratings. Eco-friendly cars are beneficial for the environment, and such cars also help drivers’ bottom lines.
In 2016, Consumer Reports looked past U.S. Environmental Protection Agency figures and the claims offered by manufacturers with regard to vehicles noted for their fuel efficiency. Consumer Reports measured precise fuel-flow with a device spliced directly into the fuel line. Testing occurred on both a public highway at 65 mph, as well in a simulated urban/ suburban track. Consumer Reports has identified these vehicles as their top picks for energy consumption.
-- Mitsubishi Mirage: In the subcompact division, this vehicle features a fuel economy of 37 mpg. With its very low sticker price, it can be a smart choice for eco- and budget-conscious buyers.
-- Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid: This car marries both a battery-powered electric motor and a traditional seven-speed manual transmission. The hybrid earns an overall 37 mpg rating. It’s a little bigger than many compact sedans, creating a very comfortable ride.
-- Ford Fusion Hybrid: With an upscale look, the Ford Fusion Hybrid boasts an overall 39 mpg and comfortable seats to go with a quiet cabin.
-- Lexus NX 300h and RX 450h: Lexus earns top marks for fuel economy for both its compact and midsized SUVs. Both deliver an overall mpg of 29.
When ranking their picks for vehicles with high fuel economy, FuelEconomy.gov, the official U.S. government resource for fuel economy information, lists the Hyundai Ioniq Electric, BMW 13 BEV and Tesla Model S AWD- 60D as the most efficient cars. Those who prefer a truck or SUV will find the Chevrolet Colorado 2WD, Chrysler Pacifica Plug-In Hybrid and the Nissan Rogue Hybrid FWD as top contenders.
Fuel-efficient cars and trucks continue to pave the way for more ecofriendly living.