2009 Best List: Green and Used Cars

Whether you are looking to save money by buying a used car or just save on gas, these are our best cars for the price.

• If you want: Great gas mileage in a small package
• Car: 2006 Pontiac Vibe ($9,614)
• Why we like it: GM’s twin of the Toyota Matrix costs less but has the same fuel-efficient engine and generous cargo space.

• If you want: A budget-friendly family car
• Car: 2007 Hyundai Sonata GLS ($10,565)
• Why we like it: This car competes with the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, but it comes with a lower price.

• If you want: Luxury at an affordable price
• Car: 2006 Acura TL ($21,091)
• Why we like it: The reliable TL offers stellar resale values, standard safety features and fuel-efficient performance.

• If you want: A crossover SUV
• Car: 2005 Toyota RAV4 ($13,144)
• Why we like it: Toyota’s small crossover consistently tops its class for its mix of functionality, fuel-friendliness and value.

Best Green Cars

• Ford Fusion Hybrid: ($28,350, 41 mpg city/36 hwy) Besting the Camry hybrid by 8 mpg in the city, Ford’s family sedan has optional leather seats and a cool dashboard display that sprouts leaves as your mileage improves.

• Audi A3 2.0 TDI:($30,775, 30 mpg city/42 hwy) Audi adds a diesel engine to its entry-luxe wagon for 2010. The A3 cleans up its act with 30% better fuel economy than its gas-engine sibling and boasts a hefty 236 pound-feet of torque.

• Lexus RX 450h:($42,535, 32 mpg city/28 hwy) With 30 mpg in combined city and highway driving, the redesigned 450h boasts 20% better fuel economy than the old RX hybrid. Lexus’s good looks and ten airbags are standard fare.

• Mercedes-Benz GL350 BlueTec:($42,535, 32 mpg city/28 hwy) With 30 mpg in combined city and highway driving, the redesigned 450h boasts 20% better fuel economy than the old RX hybrid. Lexus’s good looks and ten airbags are standard fare.
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• Read more Finance articles
• How to Find a Deal on a 2009 Car
• Watch Test Drive videos
• Ford on Track to be #1 US Carmaker

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