Best End-of-Year 2010 Deals for Fuel-Efficient Cars

The end of the year is traditionally a great time to save money on new cars. This is the time when dealers attempt to liquidate their 2010 models so that more room can be made for incoming 2011 cars. While many fuel-efficient cars sold well this year, a number of models continue to have overstock on dealership lots. Review some of the best end-of-year 2010 deals on fuel-efficient cars to determine if now is the time to buy.

For 2010, the Corolla faced new competition from such well-received rivals as the 2011 Ford Fiesta and 2011 Chevrolet Cruze. Add in the fact that the Corolla receives new styling for 2011 and the outcome is lower-than-expected sales for the year. As a result, Toyota is attempting to spur end-of-year sales with the offer of zero-percent financing with a 60-month payment contract throughout much of the country. Car shoppers may also find that dealers are more willing to negotiate on the base MSRP.

The 2010 Toyota Corolla earns 26 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. Listed MSRP is set at $14,450.

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The Ford Fusion has emerged as a top seller for the Ford nameplate. Though much of the hype has been placed around the Ford Fusion Hybrid, the traditional gas engine model also receives high praise. Currently, all non-hybrid Fusions can be had with zero-percent interest for up to 60 months. In some regions, this stellar financing also comes with between $2,000 and $4,000 cash back. Given that the Ford Fusion's listed MSRP is already lower than most competitors ($19,695), this may be the best end-of-year deal among the midsize sedan class.

The 2010 Ford Fusion earns up to 22 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway.

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Somewhat surprisingly, Chevy has decided to place an aggressive 2.9-percent financing promotion for up to 60 months on its brand-new 2011 Chevrolet Cruze. This is good news for car shoppers, as the vehicle is earning solid reviews and promises above-average fuel economy for the small car class. Clearly, Chevrolet is hoping to boost buyer awareness for the Cruze with this early pricing discount.

Base MSRP for the 2011 Cruze is set at $16,275. EPA ratings suggest 24 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway.

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Those who need the added interior volume of a wagon will find a rare VW incentive for its diesel engine Jetta Sportwagen. For a limited time, this roomy fuel sipper can be had with 1.9-percent financing over 60 months. As far as wagons go, the Jetta offers one of the most upscale interior cabins among the affordable vehicle class. Add in a maximum of 66.9 cubic feet of storage, and the Jetta Sportwagen is a great eco-friendly alternative to traditional minivans and SUVs.

The Jetta Sportwagen TDI comes with a base price of $24,615. Fuel ratings come in at an impressive 30-mpg in the city and 42-mpg on the highway.

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Honda has introduced a special 0.9-percent financing incentive for a number of its 2010 models. This promotion covers the 2010 Honda Civic and is available with contracts between 24 and 60 months. Overall, the Honda Civic offers a good combination of engine performance, utility and affordability. It also offers competitive safety features and good fuel efficiency. If you're in the market for a compact sedan or coupe, then now may be the time to look at a 2010 Honda Civic.

Base price for the Civic is set at $15,455. The EPA reports fuel numbers of 26 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.

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