2011 Most-Fuel Efficient Car to Save Money (part1)

Most-Fuel Efficient 2011 Models includes, Fiat 500, the Lincoln MKZ Hybrid and the Ford Fusion Hybrid near the top of the list. So if you're in the market for a new car, these fuel-efficient models will save money on gas year after year – an important consideration, as the price of oil remains volatile and unpredictable.

The 2011 model year is a milestone for the U.S. auto industry, with the introduction of two mass-market electric cars, the Nissan LEAF and the Chevrolet Volt. While both are pricey, with federal tax incentives and long warranties, the electric cars are competitive with other showy cars for early adopters.

Nissan Leaf 2011

Cost: $32,780-35,000

Range: 160 KM Time to charge: 30 min. for 80%, or 8 hours for a full charge

Annual charging cost: $500-600

Tons of CO2 annually: 0

The first all-electric car on the road in the U.S. is the Nissan Leaf, and it's getting a lot of positive reviews. While it's price tag seems high, federal tax credits push the cost down to around $25,000, and several states have additional credits that can drive it down as far as $20,000. The batteries have long warranties, and Nissan points out that – unlike any other mass-market car – the Leaf costs almost nothing to maintain, since its electric engine doesn't even need regular oil changes.

Toyota Prius 2011

Cost: $21,600

Fuel economy: 75 Km/g

Annual fuel cost: $900

The venerable midsize family sedan is synonymous with hybrids, and it still leads the pack. Further, Consumer Reports has said that it beats the Nissan Leaf and the Chevrolet Volt in value, even though it takes about twice as much gas to get around in it.

Tesla Roadster 2011

Cost: $109,000

Miles per charge: 160

Annual charging cost: $590

The Tesla Roadster isn't priced to be a mainstream car. But if you're itching to drive like George Clooney, then this sporty electric is the car for you.

Chevrolet Volt-2011

Cost: $42,000

MPG: 93 all electric/ 37 gase

Miles per charge: 35 Annual fuel cost: $651-$1,350

The Chevrolet Volt is not an all-electric vehicle; it can go about 55 KM on a charge – enough to get most American drivers through their daily routines without needing to recharge or wait for the gas engine to kick in. But the gas engine is there when it's needed, in an effort by GM to alleviate "range anxiety." The cost of the Volt is offset somewhat by a $7,500 federal tax credit, and as much as $5,000 in state tax credits, depending on where you live. It has been named 2011 North American Car of the Year, and also Car of the Year by Motor Trend, Detroit Free Press and Automobile Magazine.

Smart Fortwo Electric 2012

Cost: $28,752 (estimate)

Fuel economy: 150 KM

Annual Fuel Cost: $650

Annual CO2: N/A

The Smart Fortwo Electric drive is expected to hit stores in 2012, though a few dozen customers have already been given the opportunity to lease it in 2011.