From Guest Blogger Jesse Harwell: Best Green Cars for 2012
This year, more car companies have released eco-friendly cars, which means more options for eco-friendly consumers. From electric cars to vehicles that use alternative fuel, here are the best green cars coming out for next year.
1. Honda Civic Natural Gas – MPG: City 27/Hwy 38; From $26,155
This car was named as the Green Car of the Year by Green Car Journal. This Honda Civic runs on natural gas, which costs less than normal fuel and has less of an impact on the environment. This car even gets you HOV lane access in several U.S. states. The car features low-end torque and a short wheelbase, so that you can zoom around corners and have a smooth ride on the highway.
2. Nissan Leaf – Range: Up to 100 miles; From $35,200
The Nissan leaf is a fully electric car perfect for the family. It has quick response time and solid breaking capabilities, which makes it great for city driving. It has won several awards for its green technology, safety, and great value.
3. Ford Focus Electric – Range: Up to 100 miles; From $39,200
This is Ford’s first all-electric car and the closest competition to the Nissan Leaf. However, it features a faster on-board charger and highly customizable displays with the MyFord Touch system. This system helps users monitor various features in the car and find electric charging stations while they’re on the go.
4. VW Passat TDI – MPG: City 30/Hwy 40; From $25,995
While diesel fuel has had a bad rap in the past, the clean diesel fuel that the Passat TDI uses is much cleaner that conventional fuel. It even features an 18.5-gallon tank that can go the distance on long trips. Other benefits of the Passat include its spacious interior, solid breaks, and smooth highway driving.
5. Mitsubishi MiEV – MPG: City 126/Hwy 99; From $29,125
This is the final all-electric car on the list, but its appearance alone sets it apart from the Leaf and the Focus. Despite its small size, its low center of gravity proves stable and solid for driving around corners.These have been available in Europe and Japan for nearly two years and are finally hitting the American markets for 2012. The electric EV version may only have a range of 75 miles, but it is a great vehicle for buzzing around town.
6. Toyota Prius v – MPG: City 44/Hwy 40; From $26,400
The mother of all green cars, the Prius has been updated for 2012. This hybrid vehicle is a roomier version of the original Prius, which makes it a great family car. It may not have the greatest acceleration, but drivers have the option of choosing between three “power modes” when they need to pass other cars or climb a hill.
7. Lexus CT 200h – MPG: City 43/Hwy 40; From $29,120
This hybrid adds a bit of power and luxury to what most people expect from a “green” car. Its Sport mode gives the throttle a boost of power so that you can pass a Prius or two. Even though this cuts down on the fuel mileage, it provides a sporty appeal for weekend drives.
8. Chevrolet Volt – MPG: City 95/Hwy 93 Electric (35/40 Gas); From $39,145
The Chevy Volt is an extended-range electric car that combines battery power with a gas engine. It can therefore go much further than most electric models with a 300-mile range, which could justify its higher price. It also features excellent safety ratings and smooth handling.
9. 2012 Honda Insight EX with Navigation – MPG: City 41/Hwy 44; From $23,540
This hybrid has been updated in a number of areas. Its sleek styling, quiet interior, and navigation system enhance the quality of the ride. It also includes the EcoAssist system, which helps drivers improve fuel efficiency on the road.
10. Ford Fusion Hybrid – MPG: City 41/Hwy 36; From $28,700
The Ford Fusion Hybrid is one of the most popular eco-friendly vehicles on the market. With fuel-efficient driving mixing gas and electric power, it’s possible to go up to 700 miles on a single tank of gas. Another great feature on the Fusion is the LCD screens that help drivers track their performance in a number of ways.
Jesse Harwell is a former private investigator who now owns and manages the site Master of Homeland Security. It is a resource for students looking to earn a Master’s Degree in Homeland Security.
