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8. Compact Hybrid: Toyota Prius
No real surprise here, as the Toyota Prius is the vehicle that launched the hybrid car movement and continues to dominate the segment to this day. It’s as if other car companies continue to play catch-up with Toyota in the hybrid market. Consumer Reports says that the Prius “still stands tall as an innovative green machine.” Key to the success of the Prius is its fuel economy, which is an impressive 52 miles per gallon on the 2017 model. That’s the highest fuel economy ever recorded by Consumer Reports for a hybrid gas/electric vehicle. The Prius also earned top marks for reliability, design, noise level, comfort, and handling. Critics have said that this is the most advanced, comfortable, and driver friendly Prius yet. The car also boasts a comprehensive suite of safety and entertainment features. So many, in fact, that you may forget that you’re driving a green vehicle.
Starting Price: $27,000
Fuel Economy: 52 miles per gallon
7. Sports Car: Mazda MX-5 Miata
In terms of pure driving pleasure, you’re not likely to do better than the Mazda MX-5 Miata, according to Consumer Reports. The main ingredients that make the Miata a success have not really changed much since the car was first introduced in the early 1990s. They include a four-cylinder engine, rear-wheel drive, sharp handling, and a light weight body and chassis. By keeping these elements in place, and fine tuning them through the years, Mazda have just about perfected the Miata and turned it into one of the most fun cars to drive on the road today. Consumer Reports states that “the real magic is in how the machine responds to the driver.” Particularly impressive is how the power is harnessed through a slick manual transmission where the gear ratios are closely and carefully spaced. Consumer Reports goes on to gush that “the Miata truly comes alive on winding roads, with immediate steering response and a handling balance that will make you grin.” Add in great fuel economy and it is no wonder that the MX-5 Miata won sports car of the year honors.
Starting Price: $30,000
Fuel Economy: 34 miles per gallon
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