To say the federal government's C.A.R.S. program--better known as "cash for clunkers"--has been wildly popular is an understatement. And while it isn't a done-deal as of this writing, it looks like the Senate will sign off on the additional $2 billion it will take to keep the program running until Labor Day.
While we can't speak to the program's overall effectiveness as an economic stimulus, we feel obligated to point out that the chance to take $3500 or $4500 off a new car's window sticker is a deal that's just too good to pass up. As for the environmental benefits of taking those old gas-guzzlers off the road, well, we figure an average 61 percent improvement in fuel economy can't be all bad.
Interestingly enough, models from American automakers--including the compact Chevrolet Cobalt, the Dodge Caliber crossover, the compact Ford Focus and Ford Escape SUV--are among the most popular vehicles rolling off dealers' lots. Not surprisingly perennial top-sellers like the Honda Civic, and Toyota's Corolla and Camry sedans are also on the list.
If you're looking to take advantage of this program, here are a few other models we suggest you consider:
This clean diesel model is available in both sedan and wagon body styles, gets 40+ mpg in freeway driving, and also qualifies for a $1300 clean vehicle tax credit on top of the cash-for-clunkers rebate.
If you live in an urban area where parking is scarce, you'll love this tiny car that's short enough to be parked perpendicular to the curb. Again, 40+ mpg on the freeway is nothing to sneeze at.
This handsome little coupe and its wagon-like Clubman sibling are great fun to drive and get EPA fuel economy estimates of 28 city and 37 highway. What's not to like about that?
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