Chevrolet Sonic Eco
Fuel economy: 40 highway mpg
The only small car built in the U.S., the 2012 Chevrolet Sonic replaces the Chevrolet Aveo. Offered as a sedan and a five-door hatchback, the Sonic starts at $13,735 for the 2012 model. Specific car prices for various Eco models are not yet available.
The Sonic comes loaded with standard features such as 10 air bags, stability control, antilock brakes and a spacious interior that has more rear seat room as well as more cargo space than its competitor, the Ford Fiesta.
While Sonic's official fuel economy ratings were not available at press time, it's expected that the 138-horsepower, 1.4-liter turbocharged, four-cylinder engine on the Eco model will achieve 40 mpg on the highway. Available features will include XM satellite radio, USB and Bluetooth functionality, remote start, heated front seats and a sunroof.