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Gas Sippers: 2008 Lexus ES350

Summary: Ten years ago, more than half the luxury cars on the market were front-wheel-drive; today, most are rear-wheel-drive — and burn more fuel. (The rear-drive layout is generally heavier because of the additional components, including a separate axle and transmission.) The ES350, however, remains front-wheel-drive — and continues to be at the top of the fuel efficiency ladder. The FWD layout also provides better traction in poor weather than RWD (and for less money than AWD, all else being equal). Finally, the ES350 doesn’t try to be sporty, so its suspension is very forgiving over rough roads — and its ride especially soft and comfortable compared with other cars of this type.

MSRP: $33,820

EPA mileage: 19 city/27 highway

Buyer's note: Later in 2008 or early 2009 Mercedes-Benz will be offering a diesel powered version of the C-Class capable of 35-plus MPGs on the highway. BMW will likewise be offering a high-efficiency diesel version of the popular 3-Series sedan.