When you’re trying to reduce your carbon footprint, finding the right vehicle for your lifestyle and personal tastes can be a challenge. You need to consider fuel emissions and overall efficiency of driving your vehicle. There are now dozens of hybrid, electric, and other eco-friendly vehicles on the market, but which one is really the right match for you? Here’s a closer look at some of the top-rated environmentally friendly vehicles for eco-friendly lifestyles:
Toyota Prius
If you’re looking for a compact and efficient hatchback, consider the benefits of the eco-friendly Toyota Prius. It’s a hybrid that promises a solid driving experience and comfortable ride. You have plenty of room to carry extra bags and larger items for road trips and can enjoy deluxe features including heated seats and Bluetooth connectivity. Since this is a gas and electric hybrid vehicle, you won’t be burning up extra gas — expect to get 51 miles per gallon in the city and 48 miles per gallon on highways.
Ford Fusion Hybrid
Ford’s version of a hybrid vehicle boasts many features of a traditional sedan with a few modern upgrades. The Ford Fusion Hybrid is built with a 2-liter hybrid I4 engine and powered by a gas and electric system. It’s another solid vehicle with plenty of cargo space if you need more room for luggage, boxes, and other larger items. You’ll get 44 miles per gallon in the city and 41 miles per gallon on highways with this vehicle.
Mazda CX-5
Driving an SUV while taking care of the planet can be a reality with the Mazda CX-5. This sturdy yet efficient crossover offers spacious setting and a fuel-efficient engine. It’s also designed with high-tech features inclusion keyless entry and ignition. This family-friendly SUV has high safety ratings and the smooth ride makes it a great choice for longer road trips. You can choose from a 2.0-liter or 2.5-liter engine and both automatic and manual transmission models.
Nissan LEAF
If you’re on a tight budget but committed to living an eco-friendly lifestyle, the Nissan LEAF could be your best bet. The 2013 Nissan LEAF has receive high Edmunds Consumer Ratings for performance, reliability, comforts, and value. It’s an electric vehicle charged up by a 220-volt electricity source and powered by a 107-horsepower electric motor. It’s also one of the most energy-efficient vehicles on the market since it uses far less electric power than similar gas models — you can get the equivalent of 129 miles per gallon in the city and 102 miles per gallon on the highway with this vehicle.
Toyota Avalon Hybrid
Another option for Toyota for the eco-conscious driver, the Toyota Avalon Hybrid XLE Touring vehicle is a full-size sedan with plenty of deluxe comforts and features for a smooth ride. It’s hard to tell this one is a hybrid compared to the regular Avalon, making it a great match for those who like the style and overall feel of the classic Avalon. It’s powered by both gas and electric fuel to conserve emissions. You also get an estimated 40 miles per gallon in the city and 39 miles per gallon on the highway with this vehicle.
