European’s favorite cars tend to be sleek, hatchback-types that are super fuel-efficient (Have you seen the gas prices across the pond? It’s a wonder they can afford to drive at all!). Europe’s roads and parking spaces tend to be narrow and small, and all of this means small electric cars and diesel engines are in high demand. We were surprised to see some of these cars are pretty slick, and unfortunately, there are many we can’t get our hands on.

The reasons vary, but there are a few European auto manufacturers who sell exclusively in Europe such as Opel and Fiat. Engineering and emissions standards vary from country to country, making it difficult to cost effectively sell the same car across the world. Here are some of our favorite European cars:

Peugeot 208 GTI - This is a souped-up, lowered version of the Standard 208 that debuted at the Paris Motor Show. Peugeot claims it will reach 62 mph in less than 7 seconds!

Fiat Barcheta - This sassy, 2-seater convertible is only available in a right-side driver version. This little car has a 16-valve gas engine and provides one smooth ride, tackling winding roads with no problem.

Mazda6 Diesel Wagon – Europeans who want a sleek car with a little more space will love this one. This wagon is affordable, practical, and fuel-efficient. This car also allows for some fun, with twin turbochargers and a manual transmission, you can certainly get moving!

Lada Niva 4x4 - This little SUV is a classic and has been around since 1977. It has been updated over the years, but continues to be a top-pick for an all-terrain vehicle. Ice? Sand? No problem. This little guy has a manual transmission and full-time four wheel drive.

While it is a bummer we can’t buy these cars here in the USA, check out our Green Car Search and Green Blog Posts to find a fuel-efficient alternative that will work for you!

 

 

 

Electric cars have been increasing in popularity over the last decade, - due in part to ever increasing fuel prices and in part to environmentally cautious drivers. Whatever the reason, choosing to buy an electric car is a lifestyle choice that should be made after carefully weighing the pros and cons.

There are many advantages to owning an electric vehicle, and many of these advantages are selling points in and of themselves. Electric vehicles obtain their power from a modified internal combustion engine or a rechargeable plug-in battery, thereby reducing your car’s dependency on fossil fuels. As a result, the money you will be saving on fuel likely will offset any additional electric expense.

Because you will be visiting the pump far less often, your electric vehicle will be much easier on the environment. The fuel used to power conventional vehicles generates about one third of America’s greenhouse gas emissions. Because electric vehicles have such efficient motors and electric generators, they are likely to emit about one half the amount of carbon dioxide that a conventional vehicle does.

With all those positive factors in mind, let’s take a look at why an electric vehicle might not yet be for everyone. First, electric vehicles typically are more expensive than similar models of traditional cars. However, one thing to consider is the long-term fuel savings and tax credits that many states offer that can help offset some of the initial cost.

Second, just like all cars, eventually you will need to replace your battery pack at some point; however, an electric car’s battery will typically set you back a few thousand dollars. You might also consider some other drawbacks of lithium-ion technology as it does not current have a predictable shelf life. Performance also tends to suffer in cold weather or when the driver cranks up the stereo, heat, or air conditioner.

Third, you’ll need to be concerned with finding re-charging stations, which are currently not nearly as widespread as gas stations are. Many electric vehicle drivers worry that they will need to recharge at an inconvenient place or time.  Luckily, public recharging stations are becoming more and more common and that trend is expected to continue.

Purchasing your next car is a personal decision and your lifestyle is a huge factor. Owning an electric vehicle can be stress free with a bit of planning, commitment, and organization. And, don’t forget to take full advantage of those free charging stations!

 

With gas prices nearing $4 nationally, you may skip those extra trips to the grocery store, shopping centers, and gym.  But if staying put isn’t an option for you, driving a fuel-efficient vehicle may be your best option to save some extra money this year. So what is the most fuel-efficient vehicle? The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has just named the 2013 Nissan Altima “The Most Fuel-Efficient Gasoline Mid-Size Car in America.” The Altima is the second best-selling car in the country, and the now its 38 highway and 27 city mpg estimates provide even more reason to seek out this new vehicle. 

The new Nissan Altima has a variety of features to accommodate those seeking a safe, family-fit vehicle, as well as those recent grads celebrating a new chapter in their life.  Other features include: Standard Bluetooth® Hands-Free Phone system, Easy-Fill Tire Alert, Active Understeer Control, BOSE ® Premium Audio System, and better 0 – 60 mph acceleration than other top-selling mid-size sedans.  

In addition to the new Altima model, Nissan is rolling out four more new models in the next fifteen months. Check back for more information about these models as it becomes available.