Which Green Cars Are Tops?

As gas prices hover near $4 per gallon, hybrid and high fuel-efficiency vehicles are becoming even more popular among consumers.

Kelley Blue Book on Thursday launched KBB Green, a new Web site designed to help new-car shoppers get to the bottom of environmental and fuel efficiency issues.

"In today’s rapidly changing economy and environment, KBB Green is a one-of-a-kind resource for anyone interested in learning more about hybrid and alternative-fuel vehicles," said Jack R. Nerad, executive editorial director and executive market analyst for Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com.

As part of the site's launch, the site gave its picks for the Top 10 Green Cars. With skyrocketing gas prices and growing environmental consciousness, it's no surprise that Americans are seeking more fuel-efficient vehicles. While automakers work feverishly to increase fuel efficiency across the board, many economical standouts are already available in many categories to meet the needs of almost any new-car shopper.

In compiling the 2008 list of the Top 10 Green Cars, the site's editors looked at fuel economy, price, comfort, performance, utility and technology.

"Our list of the Top 10 Green Cars shows consumers that there are fuel-friendly vehicles available in almost every segment to accommodate a variety of lifestyles, so you don’t have to sacrifice much, if anything, to go green," Nerad said.

Top 10 Green Cars

1. 2008 Toyota Prius, combined 46 mpg
2. 2008 Honda Civic Hybrid, combined 42 mpg
3. 2008 Smart fortwo, combined 36 mpg
4. 2008 Nissan Altima Hybrid, combined 34 mpg
5. 2008 Mini Cooper, combined 32 mpg
6. 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid, combined 32 mpg
7. 2008 Honda Fit, combined 31 mpg
8. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E320 BLUETEC, combined 26 mpg
9. 2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid, combined 26 mpg
10. 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid, combined 21 mpg