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Top 11 Most Fuel-Efficient Sedans for 2012

Climbing gas prices have made fuel efficiency a priority for many shoppers. If you're in the market for a sedan that has a light touch at the pump, you'll want to consider the 11 models listed below (the list contains more than our usual 10 picks due to ties). These are the most frugal picks in the segment.

Not surprisingly, hybrids have a strong presence on this list. Family-sedan shoppers can choose from models like the Toyota Camry Hybrid, the Ford Fusion Hybrid and the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. Those seeking something more luxurious can opt for the Lexus HS 250h, while Volkswagen's Passat Diesel and Jetta Diesel are available for those who want a diesel-powered alternative. There are some compact and subcompact sedans on the list, too, such as the Honda Civic, Hyundai Accent and Kia Rio. One model that isn't included is the Toyota Prius. The reason is that the car's useful rear hatch makes it more of a hatchback than a wagon. The Prius makes an appearance on our "Top 10 Most Fuel-Efficient Hatchbacks and Wagons" list.

Our rankings are based on the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) miles-per-gallon ratings for city and highway travel. We tapped the EPA's combined fuel economy formula: 55 percent of city mpg rating plus 45 percent of highway mpg rating. The rating for each vehicle below is expressed in mpg as a city/highway/combined ratio.


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  1. Honda Civic Hybrid

    1. Honda Civic Hybrid — 44/44/44

  • Toyota Camry Hybrid

    2. Toyota Camry Hybrid — 43/39/41

  • Ford Fusion Hybrid

    3. Ford Fusion Hybrid — 41/36/39 (tie)

  • Lincoln MKZ Hybrid

    Lincoln MKZ Hybrid — 41/36/39 (tie)

  • Hyundai Sonata Hybrid

    4. Hyundai Sonata Hybrid — 35/40/37 (tie)

  • Kia Optima Hybrid

    Kia Optima Hybrid — 35/40/37 (tie)

  • Lexus HS 250h

    5. Lexus HS 250h — 35/34/35 (tie)

  • Volkswagen Passat Diesel

    Volkswagen Passat Diesel — 31/43/35 (tie)

  • Hyundai Accent

    6. Hyundai Accent — 30/40/34 (tie)

  • Kia Rio

    Kia Rio — 30/40/34 (tie)

  • Volkswagen Jetta Diesel

    Volkswagen Jetta Diesel — 30/42/34 (tie)