Lexus CT 200h
- Starting price: $29,120
- Fuel economy: 43 mpg city, 40 mpg highway
- Engine specifications: 1.8 liter, four cylinder
This four-door hybrid hatchback was chosen as a 2012 Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, or IIHS. It did so by receiving top marks for frontal and side impact, roof strength and head restraints.
The CT 200h has a Vehicle Proximity Notification System, which warns pedestrians and cyclists of its approach by emitting a low-pitch sound. This hybrid luxury car also includes a trial of the Safety Connect system, a subscription-based telematics service package that includes emergency assistance, automatic collision notification and a stolen-vehicle locator.
Eco-conscious drivers will likely appreciate the automaker's claims that it is designed to be at least 90 percent recyclable. The CT 200h is Bluetooth compatible, has a six-speaker audio system, rain-sensing wipers and eight air bags.