The Best MPG Rating for Vehicles

The Toyota Prius leads the pack among efficient new cars with its hybrid powertrain. However, among different classes, gasoline and even diesel engines help propel these cars to the best MPG (miles per gallon) ratings in their respective classes.

Two-Seaters

You may think of just roadsters in this class, but the tiny Smart Fortwo gets more than 40 MPG on the highway, in coupe or convertible trim, according to U.S. Environmental Protection Agency tests.

Compact cars

The Honda Civic has had good fuel mileage for years and its hybridized version is best among all compact cars with 45 MPG on the highway. It gets 40 MPG in the city, too.

Midsize

The Prius has grown in size since it was first released. As a midsize, it is still the most fuel efficient car in the United States with a 51/48 city/highway MPG rating.

Large Cars

The Hyundai Sonata gets the EPA's nod here, with more than 30 miles-per-gallon consumed in highway driving.

Small Station Wagons

If you need a wagon for more space, the diesel-powered Audi A3 and the Volkswagen Jetta both get 42 MPG on the highway, as well as 30 miles-per-gallon in city driving.

References

• EPA List of Most Fuel Efficient Cars for 2010 By Class