In 1991, most drivers paid $1 a gallon for gasoline. Twenty years later, filling up a car or truck costs at least $3 per gallon, which is putting a strain on bank accounts. Federal and state tax incentives mixed with dealer incentives are making it possible for many drivers to afford a fuel-efficient vehicle.
We've compiled a list of 2011's most fuel-efficient vehicles. Each week, we will highlight a different car that will save consumers on their gas prices. This week, we present the #5 most fuel-efficient car.
The Lexus CT 200h delights drivers who enjoy luxury vehicles, but hate their gas consumption typically incurred with such luxury. The CT 200h is the fifth hybrid vehicle joining the Lexus family. This car gets 42 miles to the gallon, and it costs $29,120, making it an affordable fuel-efficient car that has the best fuel economy in the premium compact segment. The CT 200h is the smallest Lexus, measuring at 170.1 inches long, 69.5 inches wide, and 56.7 inches tall. It has a 1.8 liter four-cylinder engine that generates 98 horsepower and 105 pounds-feet of torque. Combined with an 80-hp electric motor, a generator, and a 202-volt nickel-metal hybrid battery pack, the series and parallel hybrid system produces a total of 134 hp. The CT 200h offers four driving modes: EV, Eco, Normal, and Sport. EV mode allows drivers to go all electric for up to a mile - so long as the car is kept below 25 mph on flat paved surfaces. Eco mode alters provides maximized fuel economy for gas-electric driving - slowing cabin cooling, limiting throttle, and accelerating regenerative braking to charge up the battery. The Eco mode is where drivers are most likely to achieve the government's estimated 43 mpg city and 40 mpg highway fuel mileage.
Annual CO2 emissions: 89 to 92 grams per kilometer driven
Mileage: 42 mpg
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