by Beth Szczepanski

Created on: August 02, 2008   Last Updated: May 14, 2010

With gas prices spiraling to astonishing heights and concerns over global warming becoming more pressing each day, more and more Americans are turning to smaller, more fuel efficient cars. Many of the most fuel efficient cars on the market today are either quite expensive or very small. When shopping for an economic car, consumers should carefully balance their budget and their need for space.

Fuel Efficient New Cars

Gas-electric hybrid cars feature the greatest fuel efficiency readily available on the market today. The best of the hybrids are the Toyota Prius and the Honda Civic Hybrid, both of which are rated at an estimated 48 miles per gallon on the highway. These cars will save you a lot of money at the pump, but their purchase prices run a bit high. The manufacturer's suggested retail price for the Prius is $20,600, while the Honda Civic Hybrid lists at $21,500.

The Smart Car is a much smaller and cheaper option for those in the market for a fuel-efficient car. These tiny little cuties putter about using a conventional gas engine, but their miniscule scale allows them to go approximately 41 miles on the highway on a single gallon of gas. These cars have two seats and very little storage room, so it should not be the first choice for a concert bassist.

The MSRP for a Smart Car ranges from $11,590 to $16,590, so these cars can fit into more budgets than the hybrid models. Smart Cars just hit the US market in 2008, so it might be difficult to find one in some areas.

If you need more space than a small four-door hybrid sedan or a two-seat car the size and shape of a child's tennis shoe can offer you, there are larger hybrid options available. These include the Toyota Camry and a growing number of SUV's, including the Hummer. Of course, putting a hybrid engine in an army tank will not result it eye-popping fuel economy, so a hybrid SUV is a good buy only if you are regularly toting a big crowd around town.

Fuel Efficient Used Cars

People who really need to find a fuel efficient car are those who, like me, cannot afford to spend much either at the car dealer or at the pump. For us, a used car is likely the best option. There are a number of very cheap and very fuel efficient used models available. They might not be powerful and stylish, but they certainly won't break the bank.

One of the best options for the very budget-conscious car buyer is the Geo Metro. These little monsters can easily run for years without requiring much maintenance, and they travel about

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