5 Most Popular Fuel-Efficient New Cars for 2011

Are you wondering which gas-sipping new cars are selling the best for the 2011 model year? Well, as it turns out, the top five most popular vehicles of 2011 (based on sales) all happen to be exceptionally fuel-efficient. Of course, this fact makes sense given the current average price for a tank of gas. Keep reading to review five of the most popular new cars currently available on dealership lots.

5. 2011 Honda Accord

Coasting off of its strong brand name, the Honda Accord returns once again as a very popular vehicle. While competition from newcomers has brought a number of solid contenders to the market, Honda still earns high marks for its roomy interior and reserved, yet attractive styling. The Accord also delivers some of the best fuel figures among the midsize sedan class. Base models offer an estimated 23 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. A competitive base price of $21,180 has also contributed to solid sales figures for the year.

4. 2011 Hyundai Elantra

The redesigned Hyundai Elantra seems to be striking a chord with car shoppers. When looked at by car reviewers and shoppers alike, the bold, sporty styling is largely viewed as an giant step up from last year's model. A new engine also boosts mileage to an impressive 29 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway. Add in a list of standard features that is well above average for the class, and it's clear that many individuals see 2011 Elantra as good buy for the year. An affordable base price below $15,000 doesn't hurt either.

3. 2011 Hyundai Sonata

Along with the Elantra, the redesigned 2011 Sonata has given Hyundai a one-two punch in the affordable car market. The Sonata receives much of the same updates as the Elantra, including a head-turning exterior design and a boost in fuel efficiency. With a base fuel rating of 24 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, the Sonata eclipses top-selling midsize sedans such as the Honda Accord when it comes to saving you money at the pump. A base price below $20,000 has also helped it steal market share from long-term favorites among the class.

2. 2011 Ford Focus

While some car reviewers consider the 2011 Focus to be a little stale, that hasn't stopped car shoppers from snatching up this affordable small car. This real-world popularity is due in part to fuel ratings of 25 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. A solid list of standard comfort and convenience features also helps (it seems shoppers really like the vehicle's Ford Sync technology). Base price for the 2011 Focus is listed at $16,640.

Note, the 2012 Ford Focus is redesigned and promises to deliver an even more competitive package. So, keep this in mind when shopping for your new car.

1. 2011 Honda Civic

The Honda Civic has long been a top-selling vehicle. The 2011 model year proves no different, with the Civic outselling every other model on the market. The Civic is reliable, fuel-efficient and comes in a variety of available trim styles. Whether you like the sedan or coupe, base models deliver an estimated fuel efficiency of 26 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. Add it all up, and the Civic is definitely worth a look for anyone who is in the market for an affordable compact car. Initial asking price for the 2011 Civic is set at $15,605.