If you're lucky enough to be in the market for one of these beauties, odds are that superior fuel efficiency isn't tops on your list of priorities. But times have changed, thanks in part to the traditional European influence on the sector, and today some of the best performing cars out there won't leaving you feeling ashamed or ripped off next time you pull up to the pump across from a 2010 Toyota Prius (view photos). Especially when you open up the turbo on the Interstate like it was meant to be, you'll find many of these top sports cars can sip unleaded just as slowly as many more conventional commuter and family-oriented cars on the road.
Fuel economy estimates are courtesy of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). EPA estimates are based on laboratory tests conducted by manufacturers according to federal regulations. EPA re-tests about 10% of vehicle models to confirm manufacturer's results. Your results may vary. Learn more at http://www.fueleconomy.gov/.
10. 2010 BMW 128i
Some critics will tell you that the 2010 BMW 128i (view photos) and its 1-series sibling, the 135i, can feel cramped and overpriced with lackluster fuel economy ratings. But for every vocal hater, there's a room of devoted fans who point to BMW's superior driving dynamics that make it the benchmark for precision on the road, not to mention the unparalleled luxury you're paying for on the inside. As for the question of fuel economy and green credibility, BMW has two new 1-Series clean diesels out in Europe. While there are no plans on the table for a similar stateside release, the recent popularity of diesels, particularly at the Green Car awards shows, has us thinking that BMW could find itself a little higher up this list in years to come.
9. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK300
On this list, the cream of the crop in performance terms is always found towards the bottom. Still, managing to even make a top 10 list of fuel efficient sedans is an impressive feat for the beautiful 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK300 (view photos). This two-seat convertible delivers a great ride, 228 horses under the hood, decent fuel efficiency and likely provokes envy from drivers in less sporty cars. Best of all, you can have it all for less than $50,000.
8. 2010 Porsche 911 Carrera
Drop your expected miles per gallons a tad and you're suddenly running with the real deal. The 2010 Porsche 911 Carrera (view photos) brings us into the super-luxury class of sports cars that can run into the six figures for MSRP. A price point like that means most drivers won’t be fretting over a few lost MPG, and with a ride like this, who can blame them? Still, the 911 Carrera remains more efficient than many SUVs and sedans. If you have the means, by all means take one for a drive.
7. 2009 Pontiac Solstice/2009 Saturn SKY
Get ready to enter the sobering part of this punch-drunk sporty list. The Pontiac Solstice (view photos) and Saturn SKY (view photos), like the rest of Pontiac and Saturn, are on the way out. In fact, production ended with the closure of the Solstice plant in July, 2009. Both models get solid all-around ratings and remain affordable, and unless they become collectible, you may be able to get a screaming deal on one as Pontiac and Saturn dealerships close or face consolidation with other GM brands.
