MPG-o-Matic 2012 Hyundai Accent Review Summary: The newly refreshed 2012 Hyundai Accent goes to battle in the highly competitive sub-compact class against fuel-efficient rivals including: the Ford Fiesta, Chevy Sonic, Fiat 500, Honda Fit, and cross-town cousin Kia Rio. The Accent plays the value card, with an entry price of just over $12,500. While the base GLS sedan is spartan, the fully-equipped SE hatchback is kitted out with features you might not expect with a MSRP under $16,000.
The 2012 Hyundai Accent is powered by a 16-valve Gasoline Direct Injected (GDI) 1.6-liter inline four-cylinder engine producing 138 horsepower (HP) and 123 foot pounds of torque. A six-speed manual transmission is standard and a six-speed automatic is optional. The Accent is offered as a four-door GLS sedan and five-door hatchback models with two levels of trim: GS and SE.
MPG-o-Matic 2012 Honda Civic Natural Gas Review Summary: The Honda Civic Natural Gas might not burn rubber, but it doesn’t burn a single drop of petroleum, imported or otherwise. On a car-per-car basis, it does more to reduce America’s reliance on foreign oil than any hybrid, whether plug-in or not. Its tailpipe is the cleanest of any vehicle sold with a tailpipe today. With 100% compressed natural gas (CNG) selling for just a fraction of the cost of unleaded gasoline, it’s win-win-win. But be sure to check for sufficient CNG stations in your area before you sign on the bottom line.
MPG-o-Matic 2012 Buick Verano Review Summary: Buick aims high with the Verano sedan, targeting imported luxury marquees from Lexus and Acura to Audi and Volvo, with a price that undercuts the competition. With a smooth and exceptionally quiet ride, the Verano challenges what has come to be convention. The Verano’s FlexFuel engine and its ability to utilize E85 provides a clear advantage in geographic areas where ethanol is plentiful and significantly less expensive than unleaded gasoline. As gasoline prices continue to rise, this capability will become increasingly important.