In a report by Kelly Blue Books, six out of the 10 most fuel efficient models were hybrids, but car buyers looking to “drive green” may want to consider a used version that could save their wallet and the environment at the same time.

For example, the Toyota Prius tops the list with 50 miles per gallon when one combines highway and city efficiency. That fuel savings came at a price, however, as suggested retail in 2009 was around $21,000.

On the other hand, used Priuses from 2004 onward may be found at prices that are up to $8,000 less in New Jersey, allowing customers a less expensive alternative.

The Honda Fit is another gas sipper that can be found more affordably in used variants. 2009 models had a sticker price that started at around $14,500, but cars just a year or two older may be several thousand dollars cheaper.

Savings may continue to add up for customers who choose to drive in fuel efficient cars, as federal forecasts say that gas prices this summer may reach $2.30 per gallon, according to a report in USA Today.

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More consumers are showing interested in the used car market with the number of people looking at pre-owned or late-model vehicles rising last month, according to a Washington DC radio station.

In March, there was a 5 percent increase in people looking at used cars, which suggest more Americans are watching their budgets during the weak economy, WTOP.com reports.

And the used car deals may get better for people with non-traditional financing. Lon Anderson of AAA said that for people who come with cash or who have pre-arranged their financing may find some “really good deals” in used cars, according to the article. For people interested in keeping costs low, Anderson suggested to look at a certain car.

“The newer the vehicle, the more likely it’s going to burn very cleanly and will utilize all of the latest technology,” Anderson told the news provider.

Recently AOL came out with a list titled The Best Used Cars Under $20,000. Included on the list was the 2006 Pontiac GTO, which was described as “arguably one of the best sport car deals available” in the article.

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At the New York International Auto show, patrons of the annual event were reportedly flocking to see the new hybrid cars and citing their desire to save money in the long run as the reason why they were interested.

Ed Roberti, a 65-year-old Brooklyn resident, was admiring Toyota‘s third-generation Prius, the New York Daily News reports. The car manufacturer claims the car can get 48 miles to the gallon on city streets and 51 on the highway.

“It’s a hybrid so it’ll save you a buck, which is always a good thing,” Roberti told the news provider. “I like the styling. It’s a really great looking car.”

Roberti added that he was thinking about replacing his Saturn, a brand that General Motors said it would stop producing after they released the 2011 models.

Some people have taken the bargain hunting a step further and looked at purchasing used hybrid cars, especially with reports that gas prices may stay around the same level till next year.

According to the Energy Information Administration, the price for regular gasoline is expected to average $2.23 a gallon during the summer driving season.

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A national bank has created a new car loan program that rewards consumers with a lower interested rate provided they purchase vehicles that have been certified to be environmentally friendly.

U.S. Bank will offer a half-percent rate reduction on used car loans certified by the EPA as SmartWay vehicles, meaning the automobile offers low emissions and good fuel economy.

“Including EPA-certified SmartWay vehicles in programs like this is a great way to lower greenhouse gas emissions,” said Margo Oge, director of EPA’s office of transportation and air quality. “We applaud companies that develop initiatives that benefit both the consumer and the environment.”

The bank also stated these car loans will be set up on automatic payment from a U.S. Bank account, making the transaction paperless. The program is available for used cars that are up to six years old.

People who are currently in the market for a used car and would like to take advantage of the program should visit the EPA’s website to find a list of cars that have been deemed SmartWay vehicles.

One of the vehicles listed on the site is a 2008 Chevy Aveo, which “sips fuel at a sufficiently frugal rate,” according to Edmunds.com.

Find New York Used Cars with New Jersey State Auto