Toyota Prius
60 mpg City, 51 mpg Highway (automatic)
Our review: 2004 Toyota Prius
A hybrid gas-electric, the Prius wins for the way its second-generation technology has been presented in an attractive hatch/sedan envelope that delivers big in comfort and convenience. Yes, it actually gets better mileage in city driving.
Honda Civic Hybrid
46 mpg City, 51 mpg Highway (manual)
Profile: 2004 Honda Civic Hybrid
Obviously the hybrids take first in class but Honda has chosen to offer its advanced technology in a well-known and respected family sedan, rather than create a purpose-built vehicle like the Prius. If you like the Civic, you'll like the Hybrid even more.
Volkswagen Golf TDI, aka New Beetle TDI, aka Jetta TDI
38 mpg City, 46 mpg Highway (manual)
Our review: 2004 Volkswagen Jetta TDI
We've combined these three because they're built on the same platform and use the same advanced technology. Diesel proponents claim to nearly equal hybrid mileage figures without complex and potentially costly battery/electronic systems.
Mini Cooper
28 mpg City, 37 mpg Highway (manual)
Profile: 2004 Mini Cooper
As proof that you can still have fun while saving on fuel, the Mini Cooper stands alone. Corners like a go-kart, holds four people and a little luggage, perfect for the city, no slouch on the expressway.
Hyundai Elantra
27 mpg City, 34 mpg Highway (manual)
Profile: 2004 Hyundai Elantra
Compact on the outside yet listed by the EPA as a midsize car because of a spacious interior. 4-cylinder engine is big on power while sipping fuel. Plus it offers a powertrain warranty that protects the buyer for ten years.
Ford Focus Station Wagon
26 mpg City, 35 mpg Highway (manual)
Profile: 2004 Ford Focus
Any of the Focus lineup could make this list now that the car has overcome its quality problems. But the wagon is versatile while retaining the edge in handling that makes it a delight to drive. Do not, however, order the base, rental car engine.
Honda Accord
26 mpg City, 34 mpg Highway (manual)
Our review: 2004 Honda Accord
Easy to recommend as a great family car, but what you may not realise is that the Accord's 4-cylinder engine has all the power most families need, unless they're towing Airstream trailers.
Nissan Altima
24 mpg City, 31 mpg Highway (manual)
Profile: 2004 Nissan Altima
Nissan has proven that style need not be ignored when buying a family car, for the Altima is both beautiful and practical. But forget the V-6 and opt for the 4-cylinder engine. Torque is what matters and the 4-cylinder Altima has plenty.
Chevrolet Malibu MAXX
22 mpg City, 30 mpg Highway (automatic)
Profile: 2004 Chevrolet Malibu Maxx
A real winner in our book for providing a spacious, versatile interior within an intelligently-sized exterior that looks bigger than it really is. The 4-cylinder engine is powerful and powers past the gas pumps, too.
Buick LeSabre
20 mpg City, 29 mpg Highway (automatic)
Profile: 2004 Buick LeSabre
Best seller in its class and for good reason. Behind the restrained, tasteful styling is a car that delivers a comfortable ride with remarkable fuel economy from an old-fashioned pushrod V-6. Rates high in quality, too.
