Fuel-Efficient of Their Class

What if you can't afford the extra premium to make the jump to a hybrid vehicle, or what if you can't possibly squeeze your family and all its transportation needs into a small sedan? There are still plenty of economical choices.

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Each year the U.S. EPA publishes fuel economy estimates for most new passenger vehicles sold in the U.S. The EPA also provides best-in-class fuel economy ratings by vehicle type.

For example, the minivan with the best EPA fuel economy ratings for the 2007 model year is the Dodge Caravan with two-wheel drive. The nameplate often credited with starting the minivan segment is rated at 20 and 26 mpg in city and highway driving, respectively.

Photo Gallery: Fuel-Efficient of Their Class

If you need to carry cargo that is a bit larger or messier, there are a couple of fuel-efficient pickup truck options. The Ford Ranger and its Mazda B2300 twin are rated at 24 mpg city and 29 mpg highway, for the 2WD versions equipped with manual transmissions.

The aforementioned Toyota Prius gas-electric hybrid is the leader among midsize cars, with a rating of 60 mpg in the city and 51 mpg on the highway. The Prius has a continuously variable transmission connected to a 76-horsepower 1.5-liter 4-cylinder engine, which is teamed with an electric motor for a combined 110 horsepower.

If you require a family sedan with a bit more room, the most fuel-efficient option takes the form of the Hyundai Sonata. With a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine and a manual transmission, the stylish 4-door gets 34 mpg on the highway and 24 mpg in the city, putting it at the top of the Large Car category.

The Volkswagen New Beetle Convertible makes the most efficient use of gasoline among mini-compact cars, rating 22 mpg in the city and 30 on the highway.

For the second year in a row, the best mileage in a sport-utility vehicle can be found in the Ford Escape Hybrid FWD. Combining a 2.3-liter 4-cylinder engine with an electric motor and a continuously variable transmission, the Escape Hybrid FWD is rated at 36 mpg city and 31 mpg highway.

Here are the 2007 fuel economy leaders in the most popular categories, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency:

Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

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