1st Place: 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle TDI
Combined EPA Fuel Economy: 38 mpg
Powertrain: 1.9 liter, 4 cyl., 6-AT
With a combined EPA fuel economy rating of 38 mpg, the spunky 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle TDI is one alternative to a hybrid, though its turbodiesel engine pollutes more than any gas/electric model on the market – or even the second-place runner up, the 2006 Honda Civic. Of course, if you live in Green regions such as California and New England, you can forget about the New Beetle TDI, as emissions regulations exclude the sale of dirty diesels. If you’re still interested, however, the 1.9-liter turbodiesel – torquey enough for city driving – combined with the New Beetle’s classic design and impressive fuel economy makes this VW a great choice.
| Runner-Up |
Make and Model |
Combined MPG |
Powertrain |
| 2nd Place |
Honda Civic |
34 |
1.8-liter, 4 cyl., 5-AT |
| |
Scion xA |
34 |
1.5 liter, 4 cyl., 4-AT |
| 3rd Place |
Chevrolet Aveo |
28 |
1.6 liter, 4 cyl., 4-AT |
| 4th Place |
Chevrolet Cobalt |
27 |
2.4 liter, 4 cyl., 4-AT |
| 5th Place |
Scion tC |
26 |
2.4 liter, 4 cyl., 4-AT |
| |
Volkswagen New Beetle |
26 |
2.5 liter, 4 cyl., 6-AT |
|
