The EPA gives this model a 24/36 city/highway MPG rating. Its real-world fuel economy numbers? We got 33.2 MPG for the trip, which was 95% highway.

Interestingly, for the segments where we could only go 55-65 miles per hour (e.g., much of New England), we were averaging over 36 MPG and as much as 38.6 MPG. Also of note, the trip computer consistently read about 4% too low—one of the few cars we’ve tested where the trip computer was actually pessimistic.

But whenever we were able to cruise at 75 MPH, the gas mileage went way down. For example, there were whole segments were we averaged only 29.9, 31.0, 30.6, and 28.4 MPG through Nebraska, Missouri, Kansas, and Colorado. Rarely before have we seen such a dramatic difference (~6-8 MPG) in gas mileage for 60 MPH vs. 75 MPH. It appears to us that General Motors was almost gaming the system to provide a high MPG yield within the EPA’s test parameters, with a large dropoff outside of them.

On the other hand, in city driving we were easily able to achieve 32-35 MPG, well over the EPA estimated 24 MPG. It seems that the base model Cruze with Ecotec engine is very economical up to about 65 MPH, after which mileage drops significantly.

In any case, we thoroughly enjoyed driving the Cruze, which was very Audi-like in design, quality and handling. More on this “it seems a lot more expensive than it is” vehicle soon.

For the purpose of CAFE, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) uses one formula to calculate a car’s fuel economy. However, the EPA gas mileage ratings presented to car shoppers is a different calculation meant to reflect real-world conditions, including stop-and-go driving and air conditioner usage. This means for a given car, the CAFE gas mileage rating will always be better than the EPA figures listed on a new car window sticker.

For example, a new car with a 29 MPG EPA rating will have a CAFE rating of 39 MPG—or 34% better. By our estimates, 54.5 MPG CAFE = 40.5 MPG EPA.

The 2025 CAFE standard therefore looks doable. Cars like the Ford Fiesta, Hyundai Elantra and Chevy Cruze are already yielding 40+ MPG on the highway, and the 2011 Toyota Prius is rated 50 MPG for the combined city/highway cycle. So while the auto manufacturers do have some work cut out for them over the next 14 years to achieve the CAFE mandate, we don’t think their engineers are pulling all-nighters or having nightmares quite yet.

2007 Saturn Sky Red Line (Image: NetCarShow.com)

While its basic silhouette was the same as the Solstice’s, the Sky actually wore different sheetmetal panels for an edgier look. The interior also was more luxurious, if less classic than the Solstice’s traditional round gauge, chrome bezeled school of design.

The interior and exterior design of the Sky doesn’t stir our souls at hi-mpg.org quite as much as the Solstice’s, but some people may prefer the Sky’s less flamboyant look. In any case, it is handsome, elegant, and a looker.

Happily, the powerplant and suspension of the top-of-the-line Sky—the Red Line edition—is exactly the same as the Solstice GXP’s. This includes a 2.0L turbocharged Ecotec powerplant that actually achieved better fuel economy than the base model’s normally aspirated 2.4L engine, and also featured direct injection (a first for an American manufacturer), variable valve timing, dual-scroll turbocharger, 260 hp, and 260 lb-ft of torque. Sixty miles per hour could be reached in 5.5 seconds from a standstill.

We raved about the Pontiac Solstice, and virtually all of our praise (and criticisms) apply to the Sky. Choosing between the two mainly comes down to a preference in style. Solstices sold in greater numbers, so the Skys are harder to find.

[Note: this is one of the rare cases where the top version of a car model gets superior gas mileage than the base model. The Red Line version of the 2007 Saturn Sky was the only trim level that had an official window sticker that meets hi-mpg.org's 30 mpg criteria for Hot Green Machines, but we wouldn't blame you for considering other versions of the Sky as well.] ]]> http://hi-mpg.org/saturn-sky-redline/feed/ 0 http://hi-mpg.org/pontiac-solstice-gxp/ http://hi-mpg.org/pontiac-solstice-gxp/#comments Thu, 30 Jun 2011 23:34:54 +0000 admin http://hi-mpg.org/?p=366

2007 Pontiac Solstice GXP

But the rest that immediately come to mind—e.g., the Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro, and Pontiac GTO—are technically pony cars or muscle cars. And so the Pontiac Solstice belongs on a very short list. In fact, if we make a list of American cars that fit the classic definition of a sports car—i.e., a two-seat roadster that was very affordable brand new—then the Solstice (and its corporate twin, the Saturn Sky) makes up a list all its own.

Former GM vice chairman Bob Lutz was one of the masterminds behind the Pontiac Solstice, which sprung to life in concept form in 2002 and was officially available for pre-order by 2005. He envisioned a true sports car in the tradition of classic MGs, Triumphs, and Loti, something that could compete directly with the Mazda Miata.

Between the concept debut and the arrival of the first Solstices on car lots, the car was a favorite at car shows and whetted TV viewers’ appetites as the subject of a marketing challenge on the NBC show, The Apprentice. The main reason: its style. The Solstice was a gorgeous symphony of curves, with its muscular yet flowing wheel arches, twin-kidney grill reminiscent of a 1960s MGA and a twin-bubble convertible roof cover behind the two seats.

Fortunately, the car also went and handled as well as its looks. Which brings us to the GXP version, the Solstice’s top-of-the-line trim.

The Solstice GXP and its 2.0L turbocharged Ecotec powerplant actually achieved better fuel economy than the base model’s normally aspirated 2.4L engine. We briefly described this gem of an engine in our article about the Chevrolet Cobalt SS (also a hi-mpg.org Hot Green Machine), which was a lucky recipient of the motor in 2008. To recap: direct injection (a first for an American manufacturer), variable valve timing, dual-scroll turbocharger, 260 hp, and 260 lb-ft of torque.

Two-hundred sixty horsepower! That was more than a contemporary Porsche Boxster, at half the cost! At 2.1 hp per cubic inch, it is also the highest specific output of any engine made by General Motors at the time of this writing. And while only the 2007 Pontiac Solstice GXP had an official window sticker listing EPA gas mileage exceeding hi-mpg.org’s Hot Green Machine criteria of 30 mpg highway (using the old EPA testing methodology), 2008-2010 GXP’s still could claim 28-29 mpg on the new EPA test cycle.

Granted, the car is woefully impractical and as a result of its gorgeous design has a few quirks. For example, to lower its manual top, you need to pop the trunk (via button inside the glovebox or on the keyfob for cars equipped with remote locks), get out of the car, lower the top, and close the trunklid. This is a bit more inconvenient than the Mazda Miata’s top, which can be flipped back with one hand from the driver’s seat in 3-4 seconds. But in truth, the 20 or so seconds it takes to lower the Solstice’s roof isn’t that bad. It is vastly superior than the ragtops on many vintage British sports cars, which could take several minutes to remove and stow.

Lowering the top also creates another issue—you lose half of the cargo space in the boot, which was not very large to begin with. You can still carry more than you could on, say, a motorcycle, but not by much.

But people don’t buy sports cars to be practical. They buy them to stir the soul. With its style, handling, and fuel efficiency, the Solstice succeeds completely on this count.

Now the Pontiac is no more, the Solstice is no longer produced. This makes it an even more desirable American classic, a leading candidate for a collector car. It is still very affordable on the used car market, though, as there are still a good number of the in the States due to outselling even the Mazda Miata a couple of the years the Solstice was produced.

Bob Lutz should be proud.

[Note: this is one of the rare cases where the top version of a car model gets superior gas mileage than the base model. As noted above, the GXP version of the 2007 Solstice was the only trim level that had an official window sticker that meets hi-mpg.org's 30 mpg criteria for Hot Green Machines, but we wouldn't blame you for considering other versions of the Solstice as well.] ]]> http://hi-mpg.org/pontiac-solstice-gxp/feed/ 0 http://hi-mpg.org/chevrolet-cobalt-ss/ http://hi-mpg.org/chevrolet-cobalt-ss/#comments Tue, 28 Jun 2011 19:57:02 +0000 admin http://hi-mpg.org/?p=352

2008 Chevrolet Cobalt SS Coupe (Photo: picareana.com)

First, let’s talk about style. We’ve always considered the Cobalt coupe even in its rental car guise to be very attractive with its rakish, thin C-pillar and Corvette-inspired taillights. The overall look is elegant and sporty, devoid of garish plastic cladding that General Motors like to put on, say, Pontiacs for the most part of the 2000s.

The SS model builds on the base model’s attractive lines with lower front and rear fascias. While the tall rear wing might be a little overkill, it does add to the overall aggressiveness.

Then there’s the technology packed into the SS. It features a turbocharged 2.0-liter Ecotec engine with direct injection and variable valve timing, and puts out 260 hp and 260 ft-lbs of torque. These are world-beating numbers for this class of car. Yet, it still achieves 30 mpg on the highway!

Helping put the power to the ground is launch control (something usually featured only in high-end sports cars like the Nissan GTR) and suspension that was tuned on Germany’s famed Nürburgring. The stiff handling is some of the best the General has ever engineered into its front wheel drive vehicles.

Alas, the interiors of Cobalts are notoriously low grade, consisting of sub-par fit and finish, an expanse of low-grade plastics, and generic design. At least the SS model has leather seats with sporty two-tone color, vertical adjusting head restraints and driver-side lumbar and height adjusters. The instrument panel also features titanium-faced sport analog gauges with 160 mph speedometer and an A-pillar mounted turbo boost gauge.

Coupes for the 2009 model year also had a special Reconfigurable Performance Display (RPD) option. The RPD option replaced the boost gauge in the A-pillar and allowed driver manipulation of traction control, stability control, and Competition Mode. It also provided information regarding the engine power and torque, boost, air/fuel ratio, barometric pressure, temperature, battery voltage, and cornering g-forces.

Brand new in 2008, the SS Coupe started out at approximately $22,000—a price automotive journalists quickly dubbed “a Super Steal.” And now that they are only available used (and Cobalts typically have mediocre resale value) you can get one of these attractive Nürburgring-tuned coupes for much less than that.

Maybe now you are convinced we have not lost our minds!

Nissan Juke (Photo: netcarshow.com)

No matter. We absolutely dig this vehicle. For exactly the passions that it evokes.

The Juke was specifically conceived for a red-blooded male, although we think it makes a perfect accessory for an adventurous outdoor-loving woman as well. The car is a cohesive union of interesting design cues. From the round headlights reminiscent of a rally car, to the sloping roof akin to that of the legendary Nissan GTR, to the rear taillights that are boomerang-shaped just like on the iconic 370Z, the Juke is a feast for the eyes. The sculpted, muscular sides also gives the car a presence missing from most vehicles this length (not much longer than a Mini Cooper).

Outstanding design carries on into the interior, highlighted by a center console that was inspired by the gas tank of a sport bike. Quality materials abound and are notable in a vehicle at this price point. Due to the high roofline, interior volume is generous for the car’s footprint.

Despite its high roof, SUV-like ground clearance, and all-wheel-drive availability, the Juke still gets outstanding gas mileage: 27/32 mpg city/highway in its most frugal form, and 25/30 with AWD. A big part of the reason for this is the turbocharged four-cylinder engine that is only 1.6 liters in displacement, yet is pretty big on power (170 hp). Nissan’s D-Mode also allows you to alter the throttle and steering response between Normal, Sport, and Eco.

With D-Mode on Sport, the car is particularly fun to drive. It exhibits minimal body roll, high tire grip, and tight steering—making jaunts on twisty canyon roads a total hoot.

Finally, we should mention price. Brand new in 2011, the MSRP starts out at a tick under $20,000.

High style, performance, efficiency, utility and relatively low entry price: this is why we love the Nissan Juke and ignore those who point to it while yelling “frog.”

2013 Fuel Economy Label (image: fueleconomy.gov)

Some features of the new label include:

• The “combined city/hwy” rating is most prominent now.
• An estimate of how much money on gas you’d save relative to the “average” new vehicle is displayed on the right side of the sticker, per the assumptions listed at the bottom of the label.
• The projected annual fuel cost is listed on the left-middle area of the sticker, again per the assumptions listed in the fine print at the bottom of the label.
• There’s a rating (on a scale of 1-10, with 10 being best) for each of the following environmental impact measures: fuel economy/greenhouse gases, and smog production.

For more information, visit fueleconomy.gov.

Kia Soul

At least until 2010. Introducing the Kia Soul, South Korea’s first memorable car.

It’s formula: take elements of what made the first-generation Scion xB a hit—including sporty handling, a highly utilitarian “box on wheels” architecture—and inject it with a style of its own. Unlike the xB—whose awkward proportions took us years to warm up to—the Soul is immediately handsome. It is also muscular and chiseled, and its styling successfully avoids being pigeonholed as some sort of cute chick car (unlike, say, the Nissan Cube).

Yet it has a funkiness like no other car on the planet. It comes down to some of the details, like the high trapezoid taillights, two-tone interior, and pod-like dashboard. There are some “features” that could be described a little bit as “cheesy”—such as the red-surround speakers that actually light up with greater intensity with the beat of the music piping out of them, or the glow-in-the-dark “Soul” stitching on the seats—but we think they give the car more character.

The four-banger engine is spirited enough, and the car is actually a hoot to drive. Handling isn’t quite as good as the lower Honda Fit, but a couple steps above, say, the Chrysler PT Cruiser.

And the amount of room inside? The toaster shape makes for lots of it.

With Kia’s segment-leading 10-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty, high reliability statistics of late, and low entry price, you also get a fun, dependable, practical car that won’t break the bank. A car, dare we say, with loads of soul.

2011 Ford Fiesta

In 1999—when the radical first-generation Focus made its debut—Ford had demonstrated that it could make a world-class compact car. But since then, with an increased emphasis on making and marketing profit-generating SUVs in the 2000s, Ford USA seemingly lost its way. At least until now or, rather, about a year ago. Introducing the 2011 Ford Fiesta.

The Fiesta is one of Ford’s “world cars” that was first introduced in Europe. The US-model has been slightly tweaked from its Euro-sibling to meet government regulations and American roads, but largely remains the same. This is a good thing, particularly because the Ford Fiesta is perhaps the sportiest-driving compact front-wheel-drive vehicle hi-mpg.org has ever driven with the exception of the Mini Cooper.

The steering is quick with great feedback through the fat, leather-wrapped steering wheel. Handling is flat while ride quality remains good.

The engine—despite being super frugal with fuel (we achieved 47 MPG in a Ford Fiesta sedan without even trying!)—is smooth and peppy. The automatic transmission option is a six-speed “automated manual” and does not use a power-robbing torque converter. Instead, it is a dual-clutch system—the same technology used in high-end Audis and Ferraris. It shifts exceptionally smooth, one of the finest we’ve driven at any price point. The only thing it is lacking are paddle shifters.

Of course, we’d still probably opt for the standard, “true” manual transmission—even if it is “just” a five-speed and the EPA-rated gas mileage is actually slightly worse! In any case, the Fiesta is a hoot to drive.

Driving dynamics is just part of the story, however. We love the edgy, futuristic styling of the Fiesta—particularly the hatchback. The styling theme extends into the high-quality interior, which even uses matte soft-touch materials in the dashboard. The interior actually features surprisingly premium features for such a low-priced car, including available Microsoft Sync, auto-night-dimming rear view mirror, satellite radio, and the aforementioned leather-wrapped steering wheel.

In sum, the Fiesta is a superbly styled, fun-driving premium small call without a premium price. Welcome back to the small-car big league, Ford.

Note: the specific Ford Fiesta model that achieves 40 mpg on the highway is the SFE level. But even the most fuel-thirsty Ford Fiestas are rated 28/37 mpg city/highway by the EPA.

Here are the average prices in some cities. They differ mainly because of differing state and local taxes.

• Chicago, Illinois, $4.50
• Los Angeles, California, $4.26
• Boston, Massachusetts, $4.04
• Seattle, Washington, $4.04
• Baltimore, Maryland $3.97
• Atlanta, Georgia, $3,.93
• Newark, New Jersey, $3.87
• Birmingham, Alabama, $3.74
• Salt Lake City, Utah, $3.69
• Tucson, Arizona, $3.62

This actually is not an all-time high, however. If you think back to less than three years ago—specifically, July 2008—gas prices averaged $4.11.

The Lundberg Survey predicts that by Memorial Day, the average pump cost will have declined by a dime or so. It wouldn’t surprise us the least bit, however, if gas prices go back up this year or even this summer to new heights.

Lotus Elise (Photo: Lotus Wallpapers)

Today, there are virtually no automotive manufacturers adhering to this philosophy with the notable exception of Lotus. This British sports car manufacturer, founded in the minimalistic philosophy of Colin Chapman, was known in the 60′s for its lightweight fiberglass machines that would tear up the tracks despite their small-displacement engines. The Elise continues this tradition.

The 2006 Lotus Elise weighs in under 2000 lbs., thanks in part to its stiff aluminum subframe and composite body panels. As a result, it can roar from 0-60 mph in just 4.5 seconds. That’s right, under 5 seconds! Folks, we are talking about true supercar territory here.

A supercar that can achieve an estimated 29 mpg (old EPA test cycle) on the highway! The Elise is truly in rarefied company and handles and turns heads like no other car under $50,000. Colin Chapman would be smiling.

Note: 2005 and earlier Elises have old EPA gas mileage ratings of 23/27 mpg (city/hwy). Also, although due to the new post-2007 EPA testing methodology, 2008-2010 Elises will have window stickers purporting lower mpg ratings but should get similar gas mileage to the 2006-2007 models.

Also check out the new hardtop version of the Elise, the Lotus Exige.

Chevrolet HHR (Photo: JB Car Pages)

The PT formula? Take the underpinnings of a fuel-efficient car (in the HHR’s case, the Chevy Cobalt), and put on top of it a body that offered ample room for both humans and cargo. Inject some styling cues harkening back to the 50′s hot rods—big grills, chrome door handles, etc.—all while engineering in some nifty features like flat-folding seats, flat cargo areas, etc. Then, as if all of that wasn’t enough, slap on a price tag no higher than most humble, insipid compact cars. How ingenious is that?

The Chevrolet HHR was first introduced for model year 2006, but only select 2008 and later models received an estimate of 30+ mpg highway per the new EPA test cycle. Some 2006 and 2007 models did, however, get an estimated 30 mpg highway per the old EPA test cycle.

Compared to the PT Cruiser, we like the HHR’s styling a little less (to us looks too much like a slightly smaller first-generation Dodge Durango), but it does have some advantages. First off, there are currently far less HHRs on the streets than the PT Cruisers due to being newer. Secondly, gas mileage—both city and highway—is slightly better, despite having slightly larger exterior dimensions.

Note, however, the PT Cruiser actually has slightly more cargo space. The difference is academic as both are cavernous especially with the rear seats folded down. In fact, the PT Cruiser and HHR are perhaps the perfect antidotes to the SUV blues. They are masculine enough for their owners to avoid being called a sissy, and spacious enough for all one’s gear. They are infinitely more fun and get far better gas mileage. No wonder, then, we declare them both as Hot Green Machines.

2011 Ford Fiesta SE Sedan (Photo: Ford)

The EPA estimated gas mileage for this trim level is 28 mpg city and 37 highway. How much did we achieve at the end of the 283 mile journey? According to the car’s onboard trip computer, 47.3 miles per gallon!

The trip computer's average mpg for the 2011 Ford Fiesta SE Sedan after 283 miles of driving.

The trip included 272 miles of highway driving and 11 miles of city driving. Our driving technique did not include drastic hypermiling measures like no-slowing “death turns” or drive-like-a-grandma 55-mph cruising. In fact, we were passing many cars and was typically going at least the 75 mph speed limit on I-70.

Instead, while we were driving more steadily and non-aggressively than most American drivers—never flooring the throttle, coasting to red lights from an earlier distance, using cruise control, etc.—we weren’t doing anything completely out of the ordinary. Yet it is another example of how it is easily possible to exceed the EPA estimates, which we believe (particularly the post-2008 EPA test methodology) are overly conservative.

Granted, trip computer calculations are generally a little optimistic (typically returning an average MPG yield that’s 3-6% higher than actual in our experience). But if we assume the trip computer was even 10% too optimistic, we were getting at least 42 mpg.

The Ford Fiesta—with its quick-turning steering and high-tech interior made from high-quality materials—was also a hoot to drive. We will be posting a report on this fine domestic Hot Green Machine soon.

2011 Ford Mustang

Of course, we are talking about the base Mustang here with a V6. But if you think the entry-level Mustang is a mere “secretary car” that’s a slouch at the drag strip, you’d be wrong. At least for 2011 and onward models. They have more than 300 horsepower driving the rear wheels from their 3.7-liter motor. That’s more power than a V-8 equipped Mustang from the 1990s and even a good part of the 2000s! Yet the highway gas mileage of these ‘Stangs is superior to that of a Mazda Miata despite having twice the power and 50% more weight.

In fact, the Mustang was the first production car with over 300 hp that is rated 30+ mpg on the highway.

Now, we know that people usually don’t buy Mustangs to be miserly with fuel. They buy them for style, straight-line performance, and fun. But the latest ones don’t just possess these qualities in spades, they also handle well, now have top-rate interiors, are well-equipped and can be optioned out to be very luxurious (including earth-shaking sound systems). Dare we say they are even pretty practical compared to the sports cars we have featured on this site, as it has a backseat good enough for occasional use that can be folded down (at least in the coupe) to reveal lots of cargo space.

There’s a convertible model as well which we absolutely love. Ford has got its bases covered.

The latest iteration of the Mustang is a shining example of how even with modern muscle cars it’s possible to eat your cake and have it too, which is why it is one of favorite Hot Green Machines for 2011.

Porsche Boxster, second generation (Photo: jbcarpages.com)

We admit, we had overlooked this one. Sure there are a few high-performance sports cars that are fairly well-known for being good on gas (e.g., a four-cylinder Audi TT). But a Porsche?

It’s true! Apparently, since 2007, the Porsche Boxster is capable of achieving 29 mpg on the highway per the EPA’s new test methodology. Per the old EPA test methods, the second generation Boxster gets as much 32 mpg!  This is better than a brand new V6-powered Mitsubishi Eclipse, for example, which is nowhere near the Boxster in terms of sporting aptitude. Teutonic greatness? Yes.

We love the classic looks with overtones of James Dean’s Porsche 550 Spyder. Like all of the most beloved Porsches, the engine is behind the driver. The high-pitched whine of a gem of a Porsche 6-cylinder engine is there, too.

The Boxster has been critically acclaimed by both the press and enthusiasts since its inception in the late 90s. We are ever more pleased that with the improved gas mileage of the second generation model we can proclaim the Boxster as a genuine Hot Green Machine.

1. Ford Mustang V6 (31 MPG hwy)
2. Mini Cooper (37 MPG hwy)
3. Chevrolet Camaro V6 (30 MPG hwy)
4. 2012 Fiat 500 (38 MPG hwy)
5. 2012 VW New Beetle (30 MPG hwy)

2000 Toyota Celica (Photo: ModifiedCars.com)

The Celica—through its seven incarnations since 1970—has always been a stylish Japanese import. But we particularly like the seventh generation ones (2000-2005), due to its angular, futuristic flying wedge look. These Celicas wearing silver paint are reminiscent of Star Wars vehicles for the road.

The last generation Celica also achieved the best miles per gallon quotient than any other incarnation with its smooth, free-revving 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine and 5- (or 6-) speed manual gearbox. (A 4-speed automatic was also available.) The driving experience was good and was generally regarded as one of the best-handling front-wheel-drive liftbacks to come out of Japan at the time.

Sure, there were a lot of cheap-looking hard plastics in the interior, as was the norm in the early 2000s. But at least Toyota fit-and-finish and reliability was there. While the back seat was hardly capacious enough for a toddler, with it folded down the car could actually hold a decent amount of cargo.

With seventh-generation Celicas easily going for under $7,000 in 2011, we think it is even something of a bargain. A stylish, honest-to-goodness sporty offering that you will no longer find anywhere near a Toyota new car lot nowadays.

2010 Honda Fit (Photo: jpcarpages.net)

Ah, how Honda had strayed from its roots. Its first automobiles to the U.S. — notably the Accord and Civic — were both compact hatchbacks in the 1970s. With each subsequent model makeover, however, both cars became larger, heavier, and more powerful. The Accord ceased to be a hatchback in the 1980s and the most popular Civic options have been sedans or coupes sized like too.

There has been, then, a void in Honda’s lineup left as its two main bread-and-butter cars went upscale. But long at last, as of the late 2000s, Honda has a sporty, smart hatchback again.

Actually, they’ve had one for a while — in other countries. The 2007 Honda Fit was sold as the Honda Jazz to a loyal following across the globe. Now with higher gas prices and the success of the Scion xA, Honda decided to bring the car to the U.S.

We’re glad. The Fit — particularly the second generation version featured here — is one of the more exciting-looking products that Honda has brought over in a long time.  Its handling is positively sporting, too. Along with carving corners with aplomb and being a hoot to drive, it has ample passenger and cargo space all while being frugal at the pump.

Welcome Honda Fit. The car is jazz to our ears.

2003 Mini Cooper

John, Paul, George and Ringo each supposedly had one. So did the Queen. There was something so appealing about the original Mini Cooper which was so little on the outside, and yet so surprisingly large on the inside. And there was nothing little about its heart and race-car spirit despite its front-wheel-drive and diminutive tires: witness Paddy Hopkirk’s legendary rally victories in the 1960′s.

The new Mini Cooper, thank goodness, has all of these wonderful qualities of the original, with seemingly none of its vices. The looks are there, from the outside to the inside. While the former looks very much like the original, the inside–”overstyled” to some critics”–is a thumbs-up to us at hi-mpg.org, which an almost-dizzying array of silver accents, form-and-funk, and of course, the traditional tachometer planted straight-center of the driver, proudly perched upon the steering column.

The car can still comfortably seat 4 and with its teutonically-engineered structure and side airbags can even qualify as “reasonably safe”. The handling and engine is all BMW (its maker/owner)… or Mini; either way suits us fine. For both are excellent, especially for a car of this size and price-range.

Hi-mpg.org got a chance to test-drive a Mini Cooper in the rolling backroads outside of Paso Robles, California, with its optional continuously-variable (CVT) automatic transmission. One nifty feature of the Mini Cooper’s CVT is that it can be placed in semi-manual, “Tiptronic-like” mode, where upshifts are manually achieved by nudging the tranny lever upwards (like a joystick), and downwards to downshift. Steering is extremely precise like any Bavarian machine, but adding to the fun-factor is the steering’s extreme quickness. The Mini Cooper is one agile car able to beat just about any “true” sports car through a slalom course! And despite its frugal engine, the car still feels quick (even in base model guise): relatively low mass helps, and so does the Mini’s efficient engine management system.

Style, handling, performance, even practicality! The Mini Cooper is one of the finest examples of hi-mpg.org’s Hot Green Machines: a hot car that’s easy on the eyes, environment, and your pocket book, one that remains befitting of a queen.

2000 Audi TT (Photo: Per-Tore Aasestrand, Bergen, Norway)

Avant garde. Those two words best describe the Audi TT when it first graced American shores by the late 1990s. The coupe came first, the roadster second; in any form, avant garde was written all over it. 

From its abundance of brushed aluminum on the inside to its chromed roll hoops (for the convertible) and race car-inspired gasoline filler cap (which would spawn many imitations with both new car manufacturers and the after market), this was one hot teutonic machine. While front-wheel drive and hence not quite as sporting as, say, the BMW Z3, it was well-mannered in its own right, with typical German steering precision. And the coupe (perhaps the most beautiful German shape since Porsche’s revamped 911) not only had a decent amount of cargo room, but could seat 4 people, assuming the people in the back were small children or midgets.

The Audi TT remains fairly exclusive and looks decidedly un-me-too-ish unlike some of the market’s other sports car offerings. The Audi TT keeps its value well but still used examples can be purchased for less than almost any new car today; a good value for such a solid piece of machinery. Coupe or convertible? We are always partial to the latter though the coupe has an edge on room and perhaps on style. Your choice.

1998 Volkswagen New Beetle (Photo: Chika Sekimoto, CA, USA)

The original Beetle was first conceived by Adolf Hitler and executed by Ferdinand Porsche. While “The People’s Car” would not approach the quickness or handling of Porsche’s later machines, the Beetle was built like a tank and was truly loved by people all around the world. Indeed, the Beetle became the best-selling car of all-time.

After more than a half-century of continuous production, Volkswagen finally came out with a modern rendition of Herbie the Love Bug. The New Beetle departs from the old by having an engine that’s located up front (instead of in the rear) that is even water-cooled (instead of air-cooled). And whereas the original struggled to reach 60 mph from a standstill in under 20 seconds, the New Beetle has more than adequate power to achieve that velocity in under 10.

Yet, the same spirit is there: the new shape is instantly recognizable as a Beetle and we actually think the New Beetle is far more aesthetically pleasing than the old one. (The shaped like an arc is also very strong—-witness the bridges shaped as such all around the world—-resulting in a structure that has earned the DOT’s highest safety rating in its class.) And despite Volkswagen’s recent upper-class aspirations, the New Beetle remains affordable. The front and rear bumpers were even designed to be identical as to reduce costs!

Nostalgic cues made it inside the cabin, too, including a speedometer smack-center above the steering column, and a flower vase recalling “flower power” of the 1960s. Other nice touches include ingenious front seats that pivot (both seat bottom and back as one unit) while simultaneously sliding forward to ease entry or exit for a rear passenger. The seats are comfortable and the ride reasonably compliant especially for such a small car.

Two additional versions of the New Beetle get special mention: the diesel option and convertible edition. The former attains a frugal 46 mpg on the highway, while the latter is even more stylish and fun than the coupe. We like them all.

In contrast, the similarly-priced Hummer H2 gets at best 13 mpg, according to dealers. A Cadillac Escalade sports utility vehicle achieves only 18 mpg on the highway per the EPA. Even the 4Runner SUV by Toyota—a company often associated in the minds of the public with good fuel economy—is rated at just 22 mpg for a two-wheel drive, six-cylinder base model.

But wait—are we not comparing apples and oranges here? A sports car versus an SUV? These vehicles are purchased for entirely different purposes, right? The comparison is not as far-fetched as it might initially seem, according to Felix Wong, a spokesperson for hi-mpg.org (http://hi-mpg.org).

“Top reasons for purchasing sports utility vehicles include safety, style, performance, fun, a feeling of power, a status symbol,” says Wong. “What people forget or don’t realize is that sports cars are just as good, or better, in all of those respects, all while being significantly friendlier to the environment and to people’s pocketbooks at the gas pump.”

Indeed, the sleek, sensuous curves of sports cars are often distinctive and head-turning. Their aerodynamic, no-compromise shapes—which in addition to low weight help the vehicles achieve high fuel efficiency—exude a mixture of youthfulness, rebellion, frivolity, and individuality.

In terms of fun, sports cars offer superior handling and many of their owners delight in taking on winding country roads and hairpin corners at higher rates of speeds than they would in an SUV. Many sports cars are also available in convertible form, offering wind-in-the-hair, sun-basked adventures.

Performance-wise, there really is no comparison. A Chevrolet Corvette and Lotus Elise can literally run circles around a sports utility vehicle, capable of accelerating from 0-60 miles per hour in less than five seconds. Even the relatively inexpensive Mazda MX-5 roadster—with a miserly four-cylinder engine—can accelerate to sixty from naught in under eight.

But what about safety? Space?

A widespread—but arguably mistaken—perception is that sports utility vehicles are safer. The conventional wisdom is that due to their larger mass, SUVs will protect occupants better in a crash.

In fact, sports utility vehicles’ higher weight and center of gravity can work against them. Their braking distances are often much longer than those of the lighter-weight sports cars, and their top-heaviness make them more prone to rolling over. It is also easy to imagine that in some situations where evasive emergency maneuvers are required, the nimbler, quicker sports cars have a marked advantage.

Regarding traction, sports cars—which are predominantly rear-wheel drive—traditionally have been at a disadvantage in adverse weather conditions, notably snow and ice. Nowadays, technology has mitigated this substantially with advanced tire treads, traction control, and anti-lock braking systems. Some sports cars are even offered with all-wheel-drive such as the 250-hp Audi TT Coupe Quattro, which was afforded a respectable EPA rating of 26 miles per gallon on the highway despite the added weight and efficiency losses from the all-wheel-drive system.

The most significant factor that sports utility vehicles have the upper hand is space. But even then, according to Wong, people make that out to be a larger deal than it needs to be.

“For one thing, there usually are at least two vehicles in a household, especially if one is married with kids,” he points out. “Furthermore, how often do you see an SUV going down the highway with only one person in it? I see it all the time.”

Indeed, according to the 2004 U.S. Census, 77 percent of workers drove alone to work nationwide while only 10 percent carpooled. (The other 13 percent walked, biked, or took mass transit.) In addition, in some areas of the country such as certain highways in California, two-seat sports cars with two persons can use the HOV (High Occupancy Vehicle) lane even in cases where three people are required in other automobiles.
Cargo room is not necessarily as restricted in a sports car as one may think, too.

“I’ve seen someone open the trunk of his C5 [fifth-generation] Corvette and throw a road bike in it—assembled,” says Wong. “Porsche Boxster owners will often tell you their cars can hold a lot of stuff because in their mid-engine cars, there are two trunks—one in the front and one in the rear. An Audi TT coupe is particularly cavernous with the rear seat folded down, since it’s a hatchback.”

“Also, there are a vast number of aftermarket options for smaller vehicles, including hitch- and trunk-mounted bicycle racks, roof storage boxes, trailers, etc.”

As it turns out, sports cars can be not only fun, but functional and frugal with fuel as well.

About hi-mpg.org:
Launched in September 2004, the hi-mpg.org web site (http://hi-mpg.org) identifies and rates vehicles offering high style, performance, and fun while delivering high gas mileage. Selected automobiles include sports cars, convertibles, coupes, sedans, hybrids, and retro-vehicles from the last 20 years. The web site also offers news relating to gasoline supply issues and pricing along with advanced gas mileage tips. hi-mpg.org is not affiliated in any way with the manufacturers of any vehicle or fuel-efficiency technology.

2004 Scion xB

It took us several years, but the styling of the boxy Scion xB has finally warmed up to us at hi-mpg.org.

While it cannot be described as beautiful, it can be described as both cool, different, and fun. With its round wheel arches and very short overhangs, it can even be described as sporty. And while it could certainly be labeled a “box”, few will accuse it of being a mere “econobox.”

Indeed, it looks nothing like the Honda Civics or Volkswagen Rabbits of yore. It has been suggested that its styling was inspired by the now-defunct Chevy Astro van, which had something of a cult following in Japan. Whatever the case, we think it is a lot cooler than an Astro, all while being able to hold almost as much stuff.

In fact, as it has more cargo than just about every car on hi-mpg.org’s list, we give it a 10 for utility. The amazing thing is despite its cargo capacity, it gets an EPA rating of 35 mpg on the highway! For these reasons, the Scion xB is a true Hot Green Machine.

2005 Morgan Aero 8

Time moves refreshingly slowly at Morgan, one of England’s many specialty sports car manufacturers. From 1909-1936, Morgans only had three wheels. The last new Morgan design in the 20th century was the Plus 8, conceived in 1968. Perhaps the biggest news from the Morgan factory in the 1990′s was the introduction of airbags that were, no doubt, begrudgingly installed in their new cars at the behest of the U.S. government.

Hence, whenever Morgan comes out an all-new model, it is Big News.

The Aero 8 takes Morgan into the 20th Century (along with the Plus 8, which is still produced) with its integrated bumpers and wind-cheating curves. Yet its lines are unmistakingly Morgan. Witness the sweeping low fenders over each of the wheels and large radiator grill that arches arches at the top.

Underneath the skin is a mix of new and old. The chassis is constructed from aluminum alloy — a first for Morgan. Yet, this chassis is — as Morgan tradition dictates — still bonded to wood! Its dashboard also still features beautiful straight-grain ash, and sumptuous English cowhide wraps much of the rest of the interior.

Also in accordance to tradition, the engine is not manufactured by Morgan. Propulsion for the Aero 8 is provided by a thoroughly modern BMW 4.4L V-8 (also used in Bimmer’s 5-series) pumping out a healthy 325 horsepower. The Moggie, however, runs circles around the Bimmer due to weighing a featherweight 2500 pounds vs. 5-series’ 3800. Sixty miles per hour is reached from a standstill in a mind-boggling 4.5 seconds or so!

Yet, as originally measured by the EPA, the Aero 8 gets 16.31 mpg in town and 29.77 mpg on the highway. The former number is respectable for a supercar, and the latter, downright amazing. The car (even used) is expensive, but with only a few dozen currently in the country, they don’t get more exclusive than this. You can get this Hot Green Machine for yourself by contacting Morgan and putting your name on its waiting list.

2004 Toyota Prius

Back in 2001, when the first generation Prius was introduced as the world’s first 4-door hybrid production vehicle, the buying public hardly noticed nor cared. Crude oil was below $30/barrel, prices at the pump were around $1.50 for a gallon of regular unleaded, and the first Prius looked like a frumpy compact sedan, with styling resembling that of the Toyota Echo, but a desirability of even less due to the much heftier price tag.

How times have changed.

The second generation Prius hit the streets in 2004 with more room, fuel economy, and “wow factor”. Its futuristic tear-drop shape is clean, sporty–dare we even say “sexy”?–and the packaging is downright brilliant. On the outside, it is a midsize car; on the inside, cavernous. Due to its short hood and long wheelbase, there is lots of legroom even in the rear, and its fastback profile is half hatchback, half station wagon, giving it generous cargo space especially with the rear seat folded down.

Vehicle dynamics and fit and finish are typical Toyota, while getting 60 mpg on the highway and
51 mpg in the city (original EPA estimates). These astounding numbers in a new era of ever-increasing fuel prices, along with the Prius’ style and practicality, have prompted new car buyers to add their names to the long waiting lists in Toyota dealerships, where supply simply cannot keep up with demand and dealer markups are even charged (and willingly paid for).

The Prius has become something of a new American icon, the standard bearer of the “greens” in their fight against the Humvees. But the thing about the Prius is that even if it weren’t so green, it still would be cool. This is why we proudly proclaim it a Hot Green Machine.

2001 Honda Insight

The Honda Insight was first introduced in 2000 as the world’s first production hybrid vehicle. Its short, 2-seat fastback profile harkened back to the glory days of Honda’s fun-loving CRX, all while signifying a new era of responsible, eco-friendly vehicles.

The Insight was the first car sold in the U.S. to achieve more than 60 mpg. Indeed, its original EPA fuel economy ratings of 66 mpg on the highway and 61 mpg in the city still are the best of any car. Insight owners report that they have achieved as high as 80 or even 90 mpg with careful modulation of the gas pedal and other advanced techniques. Imagine driving from Sacramento to San Francisco on just one gallon of gas!

Admittedly, the Insight is not for everyone. Whereas other two-seat vehicles featured on hi-mpg.org have high-performance capabilities, the Insight–with its skinny high-pressure tires and 3-cylinder internal-combustion engine augmented with an electric motor–does not even pretend to be a sports car. In addition, as the rear end is filled with batteries, it lacks the cargo space of its forebear, the CRX HF.

Yet practicality nor sporting capability has never been the main attraction of the Insight. Instead, it is its reputation and futuristic styling (including its aerodynamic rear wheel covers), tell the world that not only do you talk the talk when it comes to environmental-friendliness, but walk the walk. Throw in Honda reliability and fun-to-drive characteristics, and you got yourself a Hot Green Machine.

Ford Escape, first generation (Photo credit: Sharon Richard, Milpitas, CA)

So you are active, have to haul a lot of gear, and/or have an especially large family. Once in a while you even travel off of paved roads (unlike most SUV owners) to, for example, reach the base of a mountain you are going to climb up (in rock climbing shoes), and you actually need the ground clearance of an SUV. Yet, it hurts to think about how much gas money you’d need just to drive from San Francisco to Yosemite in a Toyota Sequoia, which only achieves 16 or 17 mpg on the highway.

Finally, an automobile manufacturer has an answer. The Ford Escape Hybrid is the first electric/gasoline SUV, and it’s a decent one. Ford’s line of SUVs have been popular for their handsome looks, workhorse dependability and thoughtful creature comforts, and the Escape Hybrid is no exception.

We personally think that the Escape Hybrid is one of the better looking SUVs on the market, though unlike most of the other vehicles on hi-mpg.org, it probably would not attract a huge crowd at the local gas station. However, a smile on your face will form every time you grab the gas pump, because the Escape Hybrid gets a whopping 31 mpg on the highway. That is easily double that of most medium or large-sized SUVs, and three times as much as the poster-child of the gas-guzzlers, the Hummer H2. Finally, being able to carry lots of stuff does not require sucking up egregious supplies of dino-juice.

Note: the photo above is of a non-hybrid Escape, but the Escape Hybrid looks similar. The 2005 Escape Hybrid arrived at Ford dealerships in the fall of 2004.

2004 Corbin Sparrow (Photo: Don McGrath, St. Helena, CA)

Think back to the last millenium. The economy was booming, dot-coms were high-flying, and technology was thriving. Startups were frequent, venture capitalism was hot, and the nation was more preoccupied with capitalism than fighting wars overseas. Risks were taken to finance some of the wackiest ideas.

It was this sort of environment in which the Corbin Sparrow was born.

At the time, there was only one fairly mainstream road-going electric vehicle: GM’s dismal EV1. That car was so frightfully expensive to produce that the General decided to only lease the car (i.e. one could not buy it), as the sticker price otherwise would have been about $40k. A lot of dough for a car with a range of only about 70 miles.

The Sparrow, in contrast, was the brainchild of Mike Corbin, the famed maker of aftermarket motorcycle saddles. He designed the Sparrow on the back of a napkin: 3 wheels, single passenger, under $15k brand new. He handed the napkin to his engineers and by 1996 the Corbin Sparrow was making rounds on the auto show circuit. It was an instant hit: hundreds of reservations were made, and the Sparrow was a go!

By the late 90s Corbin Sparrows began popping up all over California and other states (hi-mpg.org spotted one in Boulder, CO.) The first time we saw one was while entering an Interstate Highway in Silicon Valley; we were following it in a BMW Z3. Our first thought was, “What a sleek, futuristic machine!” Its fiberglass body is kind of a cross between an egg, a teadrop, and a rollerskate. Our second impression was “Wow, it can move!” as it accelerated away from the Z3 onto the Interstate.

The drivetrain includes 13 deep-cycle lead-acid batteries making up 156 volts. Propulsion is initiated by a single DC motor. The batteries could be charged on any AC power source (110 or 220 volts), though one had to be careful about not overcharging them to maximize longevity. Taking care of the vehicle has its rewards: the Sparrow’s energy requirement is roughly equivalent to getting a whopping 175 mpg in a gas-powered vehicle!

Owners reported a top speed of more than 85 mph, but a true driving range of only about 20-25 miles per charge (notwithstanding the advertised 40 miles). It was therefore strictly a commuting vehicle instead of a long-distance road-tripper, but this suit its owners fine: most daily trips tend to be 10 miles or less.

A fantastic advantage of the Sparrow was that it was officially classified by the CA vehicle department as a motorcycle, though as it was fully enclosed, a helmet was not required. Motorcycles, of course, are allowed on the carpool lane in California, so the Sparrow became the only fully-enclosed vehicle allowed in the carpool lane with one occupant only. (Note: this was well before September 2004, when Arnold Schwarzenegger signed legislation allowing single-occupant hybrid vehicles achieving over 45 mpg in the carpool lane.)

Corbin Sparrows made their mark not only in the landscapes of tech-friendly areas like Silicon Valley, but on the TV and movie screen as well. Sparrows had cameos in James Cameron’s sci-fi series Dark Angel, and Mike Myers had a Sparrow in one of his Austin Powers movies.

Despite their popularity and loyal following, Corbin Motors filed Chapter 7 bankruptcy in March 2003, after failing to secure a final round of financing. However, the Sparrow was alive once again after being saved by Myers Motors of Ohio. They remain loveable and extremely unique in a world where the big automotive companies without the vision of Corbin or Myers have all but given up on all-electric vehicles.

2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser

Perhaps we already have you convinced that SUVs for most people are needless gas-guzzling machines that are hard-to-park, a whale to drive and expensive to maintain. You definitely want something a bit sportier, though you have family, or friends, whom you often need to shuttle around. Room for their gear is needed. A 2-seat sports car, or a Corbin Sparrow just won’t do. Yet you want something with style, an attitude… not your dad’s most uncool station wagon.

Enter the Chrysler PT Cruiser, from the company bold enough to bring us the Dodge Viper and Plymouth Prowler.

Like those two wild offerings, the PT Cruiser evokes glory machines of yesterday. In the PT Cruiser’s case, it evokes pre-World War II hot rods, especially with its nolstagic radiator grill. The PT Cruiser looks downright stunning from the front and the rear. Though it is slightly less attractive when viewed from the side, its profile is highly practical, with removable seats and volumous cargo area. It could easily sub as breadwagon, if necessary.

Its powertrain is more modest than those hot rods it harkens, being straight out of the Dodge Neon driving its front wheels. Of course, this engine is far more miserly than any non-hybrid SUV, achieving 29 mpg (original EPA estimate) on the highway. We think it moves the car just fine, thank you.

The interior is far more radical than a Neon’s. Clearly influenced by those pre-war hot rods, we like the interior style, even if modern safety standards dictate an abundance of plastic and padding instead of chrome and painted steel.

The PT Cruiser will go down in history as an American icon of the 2000s. It has style, it has attitude, it has room. Top this off with not too shabby gas mileage and you get a genuine hi-mpg.org Hot Green Machine.

(Note: the PT Cruiser was actually manufactured until model year 2010, but only select 2002-2007 models had a window sticker showing an EPA estimated of 29 mpg highway. This is because in 2008 and onward, the gas mileage estimates on the window stickers reflected the new, more rigorous EPA testing methodology.)

2000 Caterham Super 7 (Photo: Michael Dougherty, Berthesda, MD)

It is the epitome of Colin Chapman’s tried-and-true formula of less weight, more speed. Conceived in the late 50′s as a Lotus and still in production today over 40 years later as a Caterham, the Super Seven was dominant on the track for the weekend tinkerer, and pure fun (and legal!) on the street for sports car connoisseur. 

Likened to a motorcycle on 4 wheels, the Super Seven weighs in at around 1200 lbs. (or half the weight of a Miata!), resulting in an astounding power-to-weight ratio even with a fairly standard 4-cylinder engine. A fairly “tame” 1.6L Ford Crossflow-powered Caterham Super Seven (circa 2000) can achieve mpg on the highway, yet accelerate from 0-60 mph in under 6 seconds. Hotter-tuned 4-bangers (e.g., 2.0L Ford Zetec) can achieve much more rapid acceleration in Super Sevens while achieving still-respectable gas mileage, but gas mileage here is almost besides the point: this is about as much fun as people can have with their pants on.

Of course, cars of Lotus-lineage not only are fast, but have unrivaled agility through the corners. In fact, perhaps the closest match to the Super Seven in both spirit and performance is Lotus’ contemporary Elise. Just expect to have to do a little bit of tinkering now and then (most Caterhams started out as a kit) and forget about taking out the Seven in the rain. A prospective Super Seven owner is best advised to have another vehicle as his primary vehicle–but what a wonderful weekend warrior the Seven is!

BMW Z3 photo/car credits: Felix Wong, Fremont, CA (car is actually a 2000 Z3)

It was an act of heresy, exclaimed James Bond fans at the time, and yet, it looked so fitting. For the car that Q had prepared in the 1995 movie Goldeneye was German, not British as was the Aston Martin most associated with the English spy.

Yet the car was sleek, muscular, and suave like his Bondness himself, and soon the whimpers of disapproval were overwhelmed by the exclamations of approval. The BMW Z3, with its long hood, wide stance and bulging fenders was instantly a classic. It’s reasonable price tag yet legendary BMW prowess made it the ultimate roadster. Its style was so becoming that Neiman Marcus even came out with its own special edition (in “Bond” Atlanta Metallic Blue, of course!)

To drive one is to drive a typical BMW, but without the roof. Experience a smooth, torquey inline-4 (or inline-6 in the later iterations, though only the earlier models with the 4′s meet hi-mpg.org’s 30+ mpg criteria.) Steering is precise and cornering flat, with just a hint of understeer. One thing that a prospective owner of an early Z3 might want to do is add on a sportier-sounding exhaust. The later inline-6′s had it. The earlier Z3′s inline-4′s did not.

Note: pictured above is a 2000 BMW Z3 roadster, which featured resculpted rear quarters. But the look was not radically different from the earliest Z3′s, which are not only classics but true hi-mpg.org Hot Green Machines.

1991 Alfa Romeo Spider

Her body was styled by Pininfarina, the same Italian design studio that penned many Ferraris.

Her cockpit sports other charms shared by those vehicles donning the famed prancing horse: the straight-arm, bent-knee Italian driving position; sumptuous, tanned Italian leather; and circular, rotatable vents, the type that Italians prize.

Her powertrain layout is classic, with a racy overhead-cam engine in front powering a well-controlled live-axle setup in the rear, matched by disc brakes all around.

And yet, her soul is uniquely Alfa: a descendent of a race-bred pedigree imbued with tradition, elegance, and passion; the type that gets one’s pulse beating just a little bit quicker and the mind conjuring up the possibilities…

“Because beauty is not enough” is her automaker’s motto. This is, after all, a romance… A Romance named Alfa Romeo.

1996 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder

The second-generation Mitsubishi Eclipse was one of the most beautiful shapes ever to come out of Japan. The Spyder especially looked good, top up or down. While perhaps not a “true” sports car (with its front-wheel-drive) but rather more of a sports tourer, it nevertheless has respectable handling and performance, all in a very affordable package that provides 31 mpg on the highway and 23 in the city.

Keeping with the tradition somewhat is the third-generation Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder, though this iteration has much more gimicky, plasticky styling and worse gas mileage. The fourth-generation Eclipse takes its styling cues from the second-generation, but is bulkier and heavier and the 2007 convertible model is not in showrooms quite yet. Thus the second-generation Eclipse Spyder gets our nod as a hi-mpg.org Hot Green Machine, though the Eclipse coupe (hardtop) is a decent alternative.

2005 Ford Focus

It used to be that a U.S. car manufacturer could not produce a compact car that could be described as anything but “mediocre”. Even Ford’s best-selling Escort was nothing but ho-hum in styling, ride, performance, and interior design. No car, it seemed, wearing an American nameplate would ever rival the Japanese or European compacts in terms of refinement and overall quality.

This all changed with the Ford Focus.

In great contrast to the Escort it would place, the Focus was fresh, refined, and most of all, bold. Its heavily creased “New Edge” styling was elegant with a distinctively European air. Then again, most of the development and engineering for Ford’s “world car” took place in Europe.

The Focus was even launched in Europe two years before it ever made it to the U.S. in 2000 as a 3-door hatchback (ZX3), 4-door sedan (ZX4), and estate wagon (ZXW). Shortly after its North American debut, the Focus became the best-selling car in the world. In 2002, the 5-door hatchback model (ZX5) — which was sold in the U.K. since 1998 — was finally made available to the U.S. public.

We like the Focus not only for its distinctive body (replete with triangular headlamps and taillights), but also for its critically-acclaimed handling and vehicle dynamics. We are dismayed, however, that none of the smaller, even less gas-thirsty engines under 2 liters that are available in Europe are options for the North American models. Neither are the European-spec diesels.

Regardless, the U.S. Focus’ 2.0 liter gasoline engine is frugal enough while delivering ample passing power. In addition, all models provide plenty of interior space — for both humans and cargo — despite their compact footprints. We think the Focus has the complete package, and apparently, so do other automotive critics who have heaped over 60 awards on the car since its debut.

Our favorite models are the ZX3 and ZX5 hatchbacks, if only because they look oh-so-European. The ZX4 sedan is not nearly as good-looking in our eyes. The ZXW is one of the better-looking wagons on the market and provides the most luggage capacity while hardly sacrificing any fuel economy. Take your pick of any of these Hot Green Machines and be proud that an American car manufacturer finally got a compact car right.

2004 Scion xA

The xA was one of the original products from Toyota’s new division, Scion. Scion was conceived to fill the small-car void left by Toyota which, over the years, were making their cars larger, more powerful, and seemingly able to attract primarily older people to their showrooms.

Toyota has done a commendable job with its new brand and its success has helped propel Toyota past Ford as the world’s #2 largest automaker. There are several things we like about all Scions: 1) They dare to be different, without being gaudy, whether it be the interior and exterior styling or having an instrument cluster that is situated in the middle of the dash. 2) They unabashedly use low-displacement, high fuel-economy engines, such as a 1.5-liter 4-banger that is sporty and relatively smooth. 3) They are exceptionally roomy for cars of their length, and are especially generous with headroom and cargo space. 4) They exude higher-quality fit, finish, and materials than one might expect of cars of their price. 5) Speaking of price, they are some of the lowest-priced new cars on the market, with high resale value. 6) Despite exceeding sales expectations they are still unique and not nearly as ubiquitous as, say, Honda Civics.

Of Scion’s original models, the xA was initially our favorite mainly because of its crisp, European lines.  From the interestingly-shaped taillights to the Gen-X–but not cheap-looking–dash, the car can be described as both elegant and chic. Its driving dynamics are sporty enough and though not quite up to the uber-sports standard of the Mini, we sometimes think of the xA as “a four-door Mini”. The proportions are not too different, fuel economy about the same, and risks have been taken with the styling of both the interior and exterior. In addition, it’s fun to drive, pleasing to look at, all while providing great fuel economy, making it a certified hi-mpg.org Hot Green Machine.

1991 Lotus Elan

“What ever would have Colin Chapman have thought about this?” might a devoted Lotus-phile have thought when the 1991 Elan was unveiled over a decade ago. While the original Elan was by Mazda’s own admission the inspiration for its MX-5 Miata, this new Elan was hardly following Lotus’ original tried and true formulae. This Elan had an Isuzu engine (turbocharged no less) driving its front wheels, for goodness sake!In addition, in contrast to the fast-but-minimalistic Lotuses (Loti?) of yore, this Elan was decidedly upscale, replete with leather, AC, and power-everything. Indeed, the interior was rather boring and uninspired–the dash could have come straight out of an Isuzu as far as we could tell–and at the time, at over $40k, the car was just too expensive.

Ah, but how times have changed. Lotus has returned to its roots and its minimalistic approach with its incredible Elise (another hi-mpg.org Hot Green Machine), and depreciation has made the 1991 Elan less expensive than a new Miata. Yet its looks has remained as fresh as it was back in 1991… thoroughly modern, with a handsome front-end resemblance to Lotus’ weathered Esprit; and very exclusive, even exotic.

And despite the detractors who exclaimed that no vehicle with front-wheel drive could possibly be a real sports car, this was, after all, a Lotus–making it perhaps the finest-handling front-wheel drive car in the 1990s. The turbocharged Isuzu engine is spirited and reliable enough… and unlike British iron of the 1960s, 70s, and even 80s, it is not prone to leaking oil. It gets approximately 31 mpg (original EPA estimate) on the highway.

We think the Elan is a great value and lots of fun. In fact, we think it is better looking, despite being slightly more conservative, than the Elise that would follow it a decade later. And the Isuzu drivetrain makes it all the more serviceable (even though there are less Isuzu dealerships than, say, Honda dealerships, there are FAR more Isuzu dealerships than Lotus ones.) A search of Craigslist (August 2004) in the San Francisco Bay Area turned up a couple of Elans with just over 100k miles for approximately $10,000. Not a bad deal for an exotic. Not a bad deal at all for a Lotus.

1990 Mazda Miata

“It might have been 20 years ago, or just yesterday… a roadster caught your eye,” touted the magazine ads for the new Mazda MX-5 Miata in 1990. A decade after MG, Triumph, Jensen-Healey, Alpine, etc. had sadly stopped exporting (and even manufacturing) their loveable British roadsters to the U.S. and convertibles were a dying breed, the Miata recaptured the hearts of thousands of Americans with pure sports car fun.

Mazda’s concept was hardly new, though to many youths of the 80′s who had never even heard of an MG, it seemed that way. In fact the Miata looked very much like an updated Lotus Elan from the 70s, with its wide-open mouth and overall proportions. Its handling and spirited 4-cylinder performance was even Lotus-like. The chrome door handles, it seemed, were ripped right off of Alfa Romeo’s long-running Spider. The exhaust note and driving position were reminiscent of that of an MG or Triumph. Yet, there was a crucial difference compared to all of these machines (with perhaps the exception of the Italian Alfa). The Miata was ultra-reliable. The top (which could be put up or down in seconds with a near-flick of the wrist) actually sealed. All the electrics worked. For heaven’s sake, the car did not even leak oil!

Ironically, despite these attributes, many hardcore British sports car buffs at the time had trouble warming up to the car, disdaining all the modern plastic inside (which, nevertheless, was elegantly stylish-yet-simple esp. compared to all other offerings at the time) and for its lack of “character”. The rest of the nation, however, fell in love with the car immediately. For the first year the Miata rolled onto the nation’s shores, dealer prices were many thousands above the bargain MSRP (just $13,300 in 1990!) as supply struggled to meet demand. The Miata was so successful that competitors started springing up, including the Mercury Capri and even a resurrected Lotus Elan, the latter being far less true to the original than the Miata. Those two front-wheel-drive competitors did not make even a dent into the Miata’s sales and died off rather quickly whereas the MX-5 nameplate soldiered on, still sold brand-new (now in 3rd generation guise) today.

The 1990 Miatas achieve 30 mpg on the highway and 25 mpg in the city, per the original EPA estimates. Later iterations became slightly heavier and more powerful at the expense of fuel efficency. While the 2nd generation (or even 3rd generation) Miatas are good alternatives, the originals’ ultra-low prices (just a few thousand dollars) and superior gas mileage make them the true hi-mpg.org Hot Green Machines.

1988 Honda CRX

It was the only new car in America during its time that could rival the Geo Metro in gas mileage, yet was beautiful to look at and was a hoot to drive. Long gone but not forgotten was the second generation Honday CRX HF, which is perhaps one of the true Japanese classics of the late 80s and early 90s.

There was much to love about the CRX. Its teardrop shape looked youthful and racy, making the regular Civic sedan and hatchback look downright dowdy in comparison. Yet the body did not look “plasticky” and gimicky, unlike the base Pontiac Fieros or first-generation Toyota MR2s, which were frequently cited as the CRX’s main competitors.

The sporty character did not end with the look. While the Si version of the CRX gets all the glory for being the performance version, the CRX was a very good handling car. The HF’s engine, of course, was no match for the Si, but at 52 mpg on the highway, it got almost 20 mpg more! HF, after all, stood for “high fuel economy”. It also could mean “high fun”.

While its outwardly diminutive space made it possible to park a CRX almost anywhere, the car could actually hold a lot of stuff! The rear seat is best folded down (no one but a small child can actually sit back there), and when it is, can (according to one owner) “transport a chest of drawers or a futon, with the trunklid closed.”

In many ways, the CRX was the 80′s and 90′s reincarnation of the original Austin Mini: great handling, style, and practicality. In addition, the CRX was also very reliable and typical of Honda quality. When searching for a CRX, however, keep in mind that they have often gone through several (young) owners, most of whom have driven them hard and either (1) did not take of the cars too well or (2) modified them with aero add-ons, lowered springs, etc. That said, with their prices so low thanks to over a decade’s worth of depreciation, you can’t really go wrong with them. They are genuine Hot Green Machines.

C5 (fifth generation) Corvette. (Photo: desktopcar.net)

What is this?, you ask. A 400-hp Chevrolet Corvette on our list of Hot Green Machines? It’s true!

Being the 5th generation ‘Vette and fondly referred to as the “C5″, the 2001-2004 models technically miss hi-mpg.org’s 30 mpg cutoff, achieving just 28 mpg per the EPA’s original highway mileage estimate. But hold on here. Here is “America’s sports car” which delivers a whopping 400 horsepower, 0-60 acceleration times in the low-4s, and rivals — if not trounces — many supercars from Italy and Germany in terms of speed and performance. However, whereas the Lamborghini Murcielago, for example, achieves only 15 mpg on the highway, the Corvette actually gets superior highway gas mileage to a ho-hum, pedestrian Ford Taurus of the same vintage.

How did Chevrolet achieve this? First, it kept the ‘Vette’s weight down to a svelte 3100 lbs., far less than the offerings from Ferrari or Lamborghini. Secondly, its hunkered-down low-profile body encounters minimal wind resistance. Lastly, its tallish 6th gear keeps the torquey, decades-refined pushrod V-8 (lubricated by ultra-slippery Mobil 1 synthetic oil) revving very low at cruising speeds.

In addition to the power rush, a ‘Vette also has decent cargo capacity, being able to swallow a road bike in its trunk (convertible models excluded). In other practical matters, the C5 can be had (in ) for just — one of the most expensive cars featured at hi-mpg.org, but a bargain compared to any exotic car from any country. The ‘Vette demonstrates that one can have her cake and eat it too.

An alternative to the almighty C5? For a few more dollars, but less interior space and 1 mpg worse city gas mileage, you could get a C6 (sixth generation) 2005-2007 Corvette, which offers even better performance and also 28 mpg on the highway!

1991 Mercury Capri

Mercury Capris have long exuded sporty, foreign character. There was the somewhat exclusive Euro-styled Capri of the early 60s, and then the German running mate of the Ford Mustang II of the 1970s–only quite a bit better. The latest reincarnation, of model years 1991-94, was from Australia and meant to be the original Mazda Miata‘s fiercest rival.The latest Capri never did become the megahit that the Miata was. Not even close. The wedgy slabbish styling, while handsome, was a bit conservative for some. The interior… ditto. Perhaps the Capri’s main “problem” was that it was front-wheel-drive. Pure sports cars are rear-wheel-drive, cried the purists. It was universally acknowledged that the Capri did not handle as well as the Miata.

All that said, the Capri had its own unique attributes that could be appreciated by many. The Capri actually had a backseat. Ok, so the only ones who could sit back there were kids (or people you didn’t like), but one could at least toss some groceries or a gym bag back there. Likewise, trunk space was relatively decent. And front-wheel-drive made the Capri perhaps a bit more suitable for adverse weather conditions than its rear-wheel-drive competition. Furthermore, the Capri–which ironically used many Mazda 323 components–was reliable and fun to drive. (Even with the top up!)

That the car was not a blockbuster hit and was only produced for less than 4 years only makes it more unique (and attractive) in our eyes. Finally, at just a couple thousand dollars the Capri is going for nowadays makes it one of the most affordable cars listed on hi-mpg.org. All that, coupled with the Capri’s 31 and 25 mpg on the highway and city, respectively (original EPA estimates), makes it a hi-mpg.org Hot Green Machine.

[Note: Gas mileage figures listed here are for the non-turbocharged version with standard transmission. The more common turbocharged version achieves slightly better performance but sacrifices a little bit of fuel efficiency.]

1991 Toyota MR2 (Photo: Tori Winters, Dublin, CA)

The early 90′s Toyota MR2 was the poor man’s Ferrari. From the swoopy body work to its mid-ship engine, the MR2 was in a niche by itself by virtue of the latter and an astoundingly reasonable price. The Italian-esque styling has stood the test of time well and in fact we at hi-mpg.org greatly prefer it over the new millenium’s version of the MR2 Spyder.

Two engines were available, both 4-cylinders. The performance version, of course, was supercharged, but profiled here is the base model with its original EPA highway rating of 29 mpg, virtually making our 30+ mpg Hot Green Machines mileage criteria. Of course, all versions were solid just as virtually all modern-day Toyotas are, and there was virtually nothing to differentiate the exteriors of the base and supercharged. Sporting character made it into the interior as well, with a manly (stiff) clutch and short-throw shifter.

The early 1990′s Toyota MR2 is an exclusive affordable exotic and in fact one of the few true classic vehicles made in Japan from the last couple of decades. For these reasons, plus good gas mileage for a near-exotic, we dub the second-generation Toyota MR2 a Hot Green Machine.