If you’re looking for a “green” car, it’s important to do your research. Not all green cars are created equal, or even all together green. Many cars on today’s market that claim to be green are simply hybrids or cars that boast better-than-average gas mileage. Here are the top five cars for 2012 that are truly environmentally-friendly:
1. 2012 Focus Electric
Powered by a lithium-ion battery, the new Focus never needs gas or even an oil change. With the optional home charging station, you’ll never have to worry about where to power-up your vehicle. The Focus includes many exciting new features including: an Eco-friendly interior, cargo management system, fully-charged alert light, simple push button starting and the popular Ford SYNC system. With over 100 MPGe, the car is perfect for those that commute back and forth to work or school; one charge can easily to get you where you need to go and back home again.
2. Honda Civic Natural Gas model
The new Civic model runs on natural gas and reaches an MPG of 27 city miles and 38 highway models. Not only is the car environmentally-friendly in its standard mode, but hit the green ECON button and the car will go into super efficiency mode. When you’re looking for a filling station, simply look to your car’s navigation system and it will point you to the nearest filling station.
This new offering by Mitsubishi reaches an incredible 112 combined MPGe; the most of any green car on the market. The 100 percent electric car, like the Focus, requires no gas, no oil and doesn’t even have tailpipe! With absolutely zero on-road emissions, this may be the most Eco-consciously designed vehicle out there. The car has been designed with the environment in mind, down to the last detail. From its efficient LED rear lights to its Eco-friendly interior, the “I” is a car worth driving.
4. Toyota Prius V
This latest offering from Toyota is an amazing station wagon that can get you 44 MPG in the city. Those familiar with the Prius will appreciate the updates to both the exterior and the interior of the car. Gone are the double rear windows and the UFO like interior. If you have a Prius, there’s no rush to get yourself into the new model as many reviewers note that there are few differences that make it worth trading in your 2011 model for. However, if you are new to the Prius family, this 2012 offering may be your best choice yet.
5. Volkswagen Passat TDI
Clearly a front-runner among the fuel-friendly cars of 2012, the Passat TDI runs on good, old diesel fuel. Earning an MPG of 43 on the highway, the TDI includes a cleaner burning engine and the benefit of a heavier body that runs better than its lighter siblings. A urea coating allows the smaller engine of the Jetta TDI to run smoothly in the larger Passat TDI.
“Hybrid” is no longer the buzz word when it comes to environmentally-friendly cars. The newest and best cars run on electricity or diesel and are amazingly affordable. Secure auto-financing and start shopping today. Not only will you soon be driving a car that is “green”, but you just may find yourself earning some valuable incentives!
Sheila Barnett writes on personal finance and is a loan processor for financial calculator, a site with helpful tools and information about investing and your personal loan needs.



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