2009 Top 5 Green Car of the Year Finalists

After thorough research and evaluation, Green Car Journal's Top 5 for 2009, - the year's best-of-the-best 'green' vehicles - have been identified by the magazine's editors. These vehicles are (listed alphabetically) the BMW 335d, Ford Fusion Hybrid, Saturn Vue 2 Mode Hybrid, smart fortwo, and Volkswagen Jetta TDI. One of these exceptional models will be named the 2009 Green Car of the Year on November 20th at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

Winner to be Unveiled at a Nov. 20th Press Conference at the LA Auto Show.

GREEN CAR'S TOP 5 FOR 2009
(Alphabetical Order)

2009 BMW 335d
BMW'S 335d showcases how well advanced, efficient, and clean diesel power can be incorporated into a performance-based sport sedan. With 23 mpg city/33 mpg highway fuel economy and gobs of torque, there's no sacrifice for performance fans here.
Engine: 3.0-liter inline-six diesel Emissions, EPA/CARB: Tier 2, Bin 5/LEV Horsepower: 265 Fuel Economy, city/hwy mpg: 23/33 (EPA) Base MSRP: Under $43,000

FORD FUSION HYBRID
Ford's first hybrid sedan uses a more advanced adaptation of the automaker's full hybrid system to allow electric driving up to 47 mph, bringing the roomy five-passenger Fusion best-in-class fuel economy. An innovative SmartGauge with EcoGuide helps drivers achieve maximum mpg.
Engine: 2.5-liter inline-four, gasoline-electric hybrid Emissions, EPA/CARB: Tier 2, Bin 5/AT-PZEV Horsepower: 155 Fuel Economy, city/hwy mpg: 38/35 (est.) Base MSRP: $27,000-$30,000 (est.)

SATURN VUE 2 MODE HYBRID
The Vue 2 Mode breaks new ground as the first application of GM's two mode hybrid technology in a V-6 front-wheel-drive vehicle. The compact SUV combines welcome functionality and fuel economy with sprightly performance and a very smooth hybrid powertrain.
Engine: 3.6-liter V-6, gasoline-electric hybrid Emissions, EPA/CARB: Tier 2, Bin 5/AT-PZEV Horsepower: 255 Fuel Economy, city/hwy mpg: 28/31 (est.) Base MSRP: Under $33,000

SMART FORTWO
The smart fortwo represents an all new type of vehicle for American drivers. Now, the tiny two-seater that's been a popular choice in Europe for years has come here, bringing with it a small eco footprint, higher fuel efficiency, and a trendy 'green' ride for new car buyers.
Engine: 1.0-liter inline three Emissions, EPA/CARB: Tier 2 Bin 5/ULEV Horsepower: 70 Fuel Economy, city/hwy mpg: 33/41 (EPA) Base MSRP: $13,990

VW JETTA TDI
The 2009 Volkswagen Jetta TDI builds on VW's 30-plus years of diesel experience in the U.S. The latest diesel technology is used to enable this fuel efficient, affordable - and dare we say 'fun' - clean diesel sedan to meet tight emissions certification in all 50 states.
Engine: 2.0-liter inline-four, diesel Emissions, EPA/CARB: Tier 2, Bin 5/SULEV Horsepower: 140 Fuel Economy, city/hwy mpg: 30/41 (EPA) Base MSRP: $21,990