I have to tell you... I'm getting that 'I want a new car' itch. I'm not quite ready to pull the trigger, but feel like I would be remiss in not mentioning with our upcoming Presidents' Day Holiday so close by -- as that is where, in my mind, the new car fun begins every year.
I have a lot of different cars on my must-test-drive list, but thought given the nature of this blog, I should focus on cars that can save you money from an energy standpoint (but also have you consider the tax implications when comparing models).
Consumer Reports rates the most fuel efficient vehicles in two categories (cars and SUVs). Here they are:
Most fuel-efficient cars and their overall mileage
- Toyota Prius Base (44 mpg)
- Toyota Prius Touring (42 mpg)
- Smart for Two Passion (39 mpg)
Most fuel efficient SUVs and their overall mileage
- Subaru Forester 2.5x (MT) (24 mpg)
- Toyota Highlander Hybrid Limited (24 mpg)
- Toyota RAV4 (base, 4cyl) (23 mpg)
The Consumer Report chart also notes the average gas mileage over a 150 mile trip. Those numbers tend to be significantly higher than the overall number shown here.
The other thing to keep in mind when determining whether an alternative vehicle will save you money -- is the associated tax credit (when still available). The IRS has a long chart on how to determine if a credit is available for your new car (and it must be new to qualify), and how much the credit is worth (determined by your purchase date). The whole qualifying system seems a bit complicated, so best to check the IRS chart when making your savings calculations.
Here's to an upcoming weekend of some fun test-driving.
-reenie
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