Honda CR-V
The Honda CR-V is agile, user-friendly, spacious, and has excellent crash test ratings. It can haul plenty with its seventy-three cubic feet of cargo space (seats down) or nearly thirty-six cubic feet with the seats up. It seats five, and parents enjoy the wide opening rear doors and the ‘conversation mirror’ to keep an easy eye on the backseat. Passengers will appreciate the sliding and reclining rear seat. The CR-V offers fuel economy at an estimated 21mpg city/28 mpg highway.

Toyota RAV4
The RAV4 is a great choice if you are looking for additional passenger space, as it offers a child-friendly third row seating option. Like the CR-V, the RAV4 has excellent safety ratings and overall good quality. Cargo wise, the RAV4 offers over thirty-six cubic feet of space with the seats up, and seventy-three with the seats down. Maximum seating capacity is seven and the second row of seats slides and reclines. Fuel economy is 22 mpg city/28 mpg highway.

Subaru Forester
If all-wheel drive is something you are after, then consider the Forester. It also has excellent safety scores and plenty of cargo room. Passengers will enjoy the backseat, which reclines and is built high to look down on the front seat. Cargo capacity with the seats up is nearly 34 cubic feet and 68 cubic feet with the seats down. For those of you who enjoy power, Subaru offers a turbo engine that should suit you and it does not do much damage to fuel economy. With the non-turbo engine, expect to get 22 mpg city/26 mpg highway and 19 mpg city/24 mpg highway with the turbo.

GMC Terrain
The Terrain is a stylish entrant into the crossover class. It also has good safety ratings and impressive fuel economy. It seats five, with the rear seat able to slide and recline. For those who do not really like the wagon look of some crossovers, the Terrain looks more like an SUV. Interior styling is reminiscent of the Cadillac SRX and has appealing high-tech options. Cargo space is nearly thirty-two cubic feet with the seats up and sixty-four with them down. The 4-cylinder engine offers an estimated fuel economy of 22 mpg city/32 mpg highway.

Mazda 5
The 5 looks most like a mini-van, but offers better handling than a true mini-van. Like a mini-van the 5 has sliding rear doors, a nice convenience. It can seat six and offers nearly forty-five cubic feet of storage space with the third row down. Captain chairs in the second row make it easy to install a car-seat. Fuel economy is not bad, with 21 mpg city/ 27 mpg highway.

The crossover car segment makes it easy to transition to a larger vehicle without having to jump into a mini-van. This growing class offers something for every driver and family needs. Start test driving – you might just surprise yourself.

In a large part, the “greenness” of EVs depends on the source from which their electric charge is derived. The electric grid is powered by gargantuan generators. Due to the immense power required, and the necessary fluidity and versatility of that power demand, these generators are nearly always powered by fossil fuels.

EVs can, however promise a reduction, if not an elimination, in the resultant pollution. One study by M. Kintner-Meyer, K. Schneider, R. Pratt, and the PNNL, found that in oil-dependent regions, greenhouse gases could be reduced by up to 40% through the use of EVs. In coal-dependent regions, however, similar benefits were zilch. A comprehensive study by the EPRI and NRDC found that the higher the PHEV (plug-in hybrid-electric vehicle) penetration, the less greenhouse gas and pollution would be produced.

EVs save more oil than the gasoline not expended at the pump. It reduces the energy expended in the associated exploration, drilling, extracting, refining and transportation, most of which comes by oil and fossil fuels.

EVs are touted as cheap wallet-stuffers; $3 to “fill up” sounds phantasmagoric. By a cost-per-mile basis, EVs claim 50% of the costs of gasoline, and according to the University of Missouri, after seven years, initial battery costs would be paid in full.

Nickel-cadmium and lead-acid batteries are renowned for their toxicity, leading some to fear a systematic switch to battery-powered EVs. However, batteries are now nickel metal hydride (NiMH) or lithium ion (Li-Ion), which cause substantially less harm to the environment, and are among the most recycled commodities in the nation.

Helpful or hurtful? Potentially both. But with a dash of clever smarts and a dollop of common sense, EVs may be the clean energy we need.

The easiest way to score cheap auto insurance is to just ask your current insurance provider. Tell them that you need to save money on your monthly bill. Your insurance company might offer you a price break just so that you will stay with their company.

If your current provider is not willing to offer you a discount, do not despair. Affordable car insurance is still out there. Request quotes from as many car insurance companies as you can. You can usually request quotes from a company online, which can save you time. Your quote will be either emailed to the email address you provide or mailed to your physical address. Once you get your quotes back, you can see which insurance companies are cheaper. Keep in mind that your final insurance rate might end up being cheaper if you call the company, and you ask them if you qualify for any additional discounts, such as special rates for students or safe drivers.

If you are a homeowner, see if your home insurance provider offers auto insurance as well. You can usually get a significant discount if you have multiple insurance plans through one provider. The more insurance plans on your account, the better the discount. If you can add your spouse’s insurance plans to your account, your discount could be quite significant.

You could also look for an insurance company that will monitor your driving habits. Recently, several insurance companies started placing monitoring devices on some of their customers’ cars. Although this might seem intrusive, many customers ask to have these devices installed because insurance providers offer drivers a steep discount to customers who participate in this program. If you do not mind your insurance company knowing exactly how much and how you drive, this could be a good way to save money on your monthly insurance bill. You can find ways to save on your auto insurance plan. You just need to look, compare, and research.

1. Smart ForTwo
EPA estimates: 36 MPG city/41 MPG highway/36 combined
MSRP: From $11,990
Available as both a classic couple and a convertible, the smart fortwo is the most fuel-efficient, non-hybrid car on the market. With seating for two and adequate storage, this unique car gets a combined 36 MPG rating at a much cheaper price than most hybrids. The smart fortwo and its conventional gasoline engine has a normal lead-acid battery. The lithium ion batteries in hybrids are dirtier to produce, have shorter lifespan and are extremely costly. For the environmentally conscious, this means the smart fortwo may actually be a greener car than hybrids. The car is best suited for urban driving, but the car’s sluggish handling may not appeal to everyone.

2. Hyundai Sonata
EPA estimates: 24 MPG city/35 MPG highway/28 combined (manual), 22/35/26 mpg (automatic)
MSRP: From $19,195
Redesigned for 2011, the Hyundai Sonata is a large sedan with impressive fuel mileage for its size. The new Sonata combines an impressive standard feature list with dramatic styling, offering strong value at a low price point. As the largest car on the list, the Sonata is a great option for drivers interested in roomier options and has more interior volume than any car in its class.

3. Volkswagen Jetta TDI
30 MPG city/42 MPG highway/34 MPG combined
MSRP: From $22,830
For a true car enthusiast, Volkswagen’s Jetta TDI platform outperforms many hybrids on fuel efficiency on the highway while remaining fun to drive. Volkswagen’s TDIs receive top marks in styling and handling while proving that modern diesel engines are clean and quiet. The Jetta has a higher sticker price than many other compact cars, but qualifies for a $1,300 clean-fuel rebate and has a low depreciation. Most impressively, drivers and reviewers alike often achieve highway gas mileage greater than the EPA’s advertised 42 MPG. What’s not to like about a sporty car with plenty of torque that gets that kind of mileage?

The Honda Fit is also an excellent choice for those shopping for an affordable, sporty small car. MSRP starts around $15,000. The Fit’s gas mileage – 28 city/35 highway – is similar to the Mini Cooper’s. The Fit has received many accolades in the automotive press due to its extensive list of options, fun-to-drive factor and its versatility. The Honda fit offers an excellent combination of fun, value and practicality.

Known for its style as well as its performance, the Mini Cooper is the iconic tiny car. With an MSRP starting at around $19,000 it’s also affordable fun. This pocket rocket also has a practical side with EPA-estimated fuel economy 28 mpg city/37 mpg highway. True to its BMW-produced roots, the Cooper has excellent handling. It’s also one of the most-recognizable cars on the road.

The Toyota Yaris has not been affected by the recent Toyota recall. In fact, the quirky Yaris offers an impressive array of safety features for a car in its class, including vehicle stability control and traction control. MSRP starts at $12,605 and gas mileage is impressive – 29 city/35 highway. The Yaris also offers an interior that is both roomy and stylish. It’s a sensible choice.

The Smart ForTwo is Daimler’s contribution to the subcompact market. The MSRP is around $12,000 for this toy-like automobile. Gas mileage is 33 city/41 highway. The Smart car is a good urban runabout that excels into fitting into tiny spaces (you can park it nose-first to the curb and still fit into a parallel-parking space!), but it’s not really a good choice for highway driving.

With an MSRP of around $13,300, the Kia Soul is the one of the most affordable small cars on the market. Its low price, avant-garde styling and customizable features have earned it many fans. Gas mileage is acceptable at 26 city/31 highway. The Soul also offers some unusual upgrades. For example, the lights in the speakers can be set to pulse with the music in the upgraded stereo system.

Consumers looking for a subcompact car have many choices on today’s market. From funky to fun to practical – there’s definitely something out there for everyone.

1. Chevrolet Avalanche (MSRP: $35,725 – $48,865)
The Avalanche provides a near-perfect mix that has set the bar for other SUTs. For the working man, it’s a full-featured solution that meets all moderate towing and hauling needs. Falling somewhere between an SUV and a truck, it has market-leading comfort in its interior and enough capability to satisfy the needs of the most demanding weekend warrior. The standard Avalanche includes a 5.3-liter V8 that pounds out 320 horsepower and 335 pound-feet of torque while achieving 15 mpg city/21 mpg highway and 16 mpg combined for 2WD versions.

2. Honda Ridgeline (MSRP: $28,450 – $36,780)
The Ridgeline may lack the Avalanche’s muscle, which will turn some potential buyers away. However, those seeking superior on-road handling and ride quality in their SUT need look no further. With top crash test scores, a two-way tailgate, comfortable cabin, and a dent-resistant bed with an innovative trunk compartment, the Ridgeline is a technical achievement. Powered by a 3.5-liter V6, the Ridgeline generates 250 horsepower and 247 pound-feet of torque. The EPA rates fuel economy at 15 mpg city/20 mpg highway and 17 mpg combined.

3. Cadillac Escalade EXT (MSRP: $61,420 – $69,000)
The Escalade EXT is essentially a Chevrolet Avalanche adorned with the unabashed American-style luxury for which Cadillac has built a reputation. The EXT doesn’t look like a worker’s truck, and most won’t want to use it that way. However, the bottom line is that it delivers in all of those areas. The standard model is all-wheel drive, and includes a 6.2-liter V8 that cranks out 403 horsepower and 417 pound-feet of torque. The Escalade earns approximately 12 mpg city/19 mpg highway and 14 mpg combined.

4. Ford Explorer Sport Trac (MSRP: $28,210 – $35,590)
The Ford Explorer Sport Trac doesn’t achieve the power and performance of the Avalanche, and it can’t match the on-road handling of the Ridgeline. However, what it can do is provide a great blend of both at an aggressive price. The standard 4.0-liter V6 generates 210 horsepower and 254 pound-feet of torque, and earns 14 mpg city/20 mpg highway and 16 mpg combined. Consumers should be aware that the more expensive and larger V8 is a better fuel performer.

5. Hummer H2 SUT (MSRP: ~$51,662)
The Hummer H2 SUT achieves market-leading ruggedness at a premium. The Avalanche is a better value, but this is a non-point for those that would consider a Hummer. The H2 SUT is distinguished both in design and in performance. Under the hood, a 6.2-liter V8 produces 393 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque. As for fuel economy ratings, well they’re not published, and that’s probably a good thing.

Few would argue that the Chevrolet Avalanche is the current king of the hill. Whatever your focus, make sure to test-drive it before settling on an SUT. However, know that all five of these SUTs are amazing options that will have you kicking ass and taking names.

These cars make a fashion statement, all while providing sensible transportation. There are several girl cars on the market, but the most popular cars that guys are turning green with envy over are the Mini Cooper, VW Golf, VW New Beetle, Mazda Miata, Toyota Corolla, and the Mercedes Benz CLK.

Priced as low as $15,000, it’s no wonder the Toyota Corolla is a hit with the ladies. It’s stylish body style paired with the fact that it boasts a fuel rating of 26/35 miles per gallon has made the Toyota Corolla a favorite for years. This is definitely a car guys would love to get their hands on.

The Mini Cooper has it all. This head turner is a tiny car that packs a huge punch. With the prices starting at under $18,000 and the gas mileage listed at 28/37 miles per gallon, it’s no wonder guys want a chance at this one, too.

Volkswagen makes a couple of girl cars. Both the Golf and the New Beetle made the list. The New Beetle starts under $19,000 and gets 20/28 miles per gallon. The shape of this car along with the pretty colors available and the standard built in flower vase are proof this one is for the girls. Slightly higher than the New Beetle, the Golf prices start slightly over $19,000. This is another girl car that hates gas. It gets 22/30 miles per gallon.

Girls also love two-seater convertibles. The Mazda Miata is a great pick at just over $22,000. The Miata is cute, sporty, great on gas, and definitely a girl car. Comparable to the other girl cars mentioned so far, the Miata gets 22/28 miles per gallon.

Finally, the ultimate girl car is the Mercedes Benz CLK. This is the only luxury car that made the list. The starting price of $43,000 will get a girl a really nice car. If she does let you drive her car, you can expect to get 17/25 miles per gallon in this Mercedes.

Good cars are designed with the driver in mind. When these cars were created, it was definitely all about the ladies. If you’re a guy, you can still drive these great cars, just be sure to fill it up with gas before you give it back to your girlfriend.

The SSC (Shelby Super Cars) Ultimate Aero claims the gold. Verified as the world’s fastest production car by Guinness World Records in 2007, the $650,000 Ultimate Aero rushes to 60mph in 2.7 seconds and levels out at 257-mph. It features flashy scissor doors and a premium DVD entertainment and audio system.

Unveiled at the 2006 British International Motor Show, the Barabus TKR scared the Ultimate Aero with an alleged 0-60 sprint of 1.67 seconds and 270-mph capability. However, it was never officially tested and never produced for the market.

Sporting a 1.7 million price sticker, the iconic Bugatti Veyron sports a monstrous 1001-hp 16-cylinder engine capable of rocketing to 60-mph in 2.5 seconds and boasts an electronically-limited top speed of 253-mph, albeit at an abysmal mileage cost: 4.8-mpg at top speed.

Other contenders include the $555,000 Saleen S7 Twin-Turbo, streaking to 248-mph; the $545,000 Swedish Koenigsegg CCX, exhibiting an impressive 0.3 drag coefficient; and the 1.5 million Weber Faster One (F1), capable of a 6.6-second 124-mph dash. The Jaguar XJ220, McLaren Mercedes SLR, Bristol T Fighter and Pagani Zonda F also join the roster.

However, as most people will never even glimpse one of these gods, there are several other slightly less expensive alternatives.

Only 300 Ferrari Enzos were produced. The $670,000 Enzo speeds to 217-mph with its aluminum V12 engine packing 660 horses. It is rumored that the Enzo replacement, the 599 GTO, will blow away its predecessor’s performance. Other Ferraris, known for elegant styling and impeccable performance, include the Scaglietti and California.

Porsche, the quintessential brand in sports car precision, boasts the $444,000 911 Carrera GT – the 10th fastest car in the world, powered by an aluminum engine which speeds to 205-mph and streaks to 60 in 3.9 seconds. Its ignition is one the left to allow a driver to both start the engine and shift concurrently. Other swift Porsche’s include 911 Targa 4S and 911 Turbo.

The aerodynamic McLaren F1 ($970,000) attains a top speed of 231-mph and dashes to 60 in 3.2 seconds. It is entirely constructed from tough, lightweight carbon fiber and has a navigational system and premium leather upholstery.

Named for a legendary toreador bull, the sleek Lamborghini Murcielago ($430,000) is a replacement for the discontinued Diablo and older brother to the Gallardo. It blasts to 60 in 3.4 seconds and tops out at 211-mph – don’t expect amenities though.

As the long-standing exemplary luxury/sport car, the Germanesque Audi R8’s V10 engine powers brims with luxury and scurries to 60-mph in 3.9 seconds and reaches 196-mph.

These cars are sure to fulfill your need for speed, plaster you to the upholstery, and rocket you across pavement.

2011 Lotus Elise. Price: $47,395 MSRP. Lotus put its nose to the design grindstone to make the greenest gasoline powered sportscar in the world. Building on its philosophy of performance it values light weight over enormous horsepower. The base Elise goes from 0 to 60 in 6.0 seconds (5.1 and 4.3 seconds, respectively, in pricier models.) And now it also sports the lowest CO2 emissions of any gasoline-powered high-performance sports car. Estimated mileage: 47 mpg. Lotus has hit its target.

2011 Chevrolet Volt. Price: TBD; the low $30,000s. Chevy’s hybrid Volt is finally a reality – earlier this year dealerships submitted their orders. Its projected feats are already legendary: 220 mpg city, cruising range of 175 miles via a small gasoline engine paired with an electric motor. But there’s more. With a touch of a button, Volt zooms into “sport mode” and gets an instant power boost. The battery pack affords Volt a lower-than-normal center of gravity, giving Volt a rock-solid, silk-smooth, preternaturally quiet ride.

2011 Nissan Leaf. Price: $32,780 MSRP. Nissan calls it “the car without a tailpipe.” Want to be on the frontier? The all-electric Leaf is for you. The economics can be complex: Nissan tells you about your tax savings of up to $7,500, then offers to install your home charging station for $2,200 – but it comes with a tax break! Then there’s the fuel savings – or the electric bill drain… Do your homework. And for God’s sake, charge in off-peak hours.

Kia Ray Hybrid Concept. Debuted February 2010, Chicago Auto Show. The Kia Ray offers 202 mpg and an astounding 746-mile range. Its 153-horsepower 4-cylinder engine, 78 kW electric motor, and lithium polymer battery are its heart. The alternator only draws power from braking and deceleration; the roof is a solar panel with “cool glazing” that keeps sun out; drag-reducing cameras replace mirrors; LED-arrays serve as headlights.

One of the safest cars on the road is the Mercedes Benz E320. While it has the higher price tag of $50,670 and gets 23 mpg city and 32 highway, it comes with a list of safety features. Features such as break assist which will apply full braking if the driver quickly takes their foot of the gas and slowly presses down on the break.

Second is the Mini Cooper, at a price tag of $16,999 and 28 city/37 highway mpg, provides just as safe package. It packs features such as four-wheel anti-lock brakes, front side airbags, front and head-protection airbag, and corner brake control which provides even braking for all wheels for stability.

The Volkswagen Passat, price tag of $22,355 and 22 city and 31 highway mpg provides it’s on unique set of features. Some of the highlights include front side impact airbag, front and side curtain airbags and a collapsible steering wheel.

The Chevy Malibu ranks as one of the safest cars on the road at $21,835 with 22 city and 30 highway mpg. This car provides high quality impact resistance, earning a five star rear and front impact crash test to go along with a four star rollover test rating. These results coupled with tire pressure monitoring and traction control warrant high safety ratings.

Lastly, F-150 truck. This large truck comes with a $20,295 price tag and gets 16 city and 21 highway mpg. While not as efficient as some of the others on this list, it makes up with the all around five star crash test scoring and on board On Star emergency service.

These manufactures took care to go the extra mile to keep these car owners as safe as possible.