Fuel Economy Continues to Drive Consumers’ Car-Buying Decisions

The  price of gas may have stopped climbing for the moment, but drivers are still concerned with fuel economy when it comes to picking out their next vehicles. A recent survey conducted by Consumer Reports found fuel efficiency is the most important factor for the majority of drivers. Roughly 37 percent of survey respondents said this was their top concern, while quality (17 percent) and safety (16 percent) rounded out the top three. Value (14 percent) and performance (6 percent) were also leading factors.

"These results make it clear that high fuel prices are continuing to impact driver behavior and influencing future purchase considerations," said Jeff Bartlett, deputy auto editor for Consumer Reports. "While quality, safety and value are still important, this may be foreshadowing a market shift by folks seeking relief at the pump."

Choosing a fuel efficient vehicle was not all about saving money either, as 65 percent of female drivers and 58 percent of men claimed they wanted to get behind the wheel of a vehicle with decent fuel economy to reduce their impact on the environment. Vehicles with alternative options, such as electric, hybrid and diesel cars, are gaining popularity as well, according to the survey results. More drivers (73 percent) are willing to consider these types of vehicles that ever before.

Whether drivers want to get behind the wheel of an electric car like the Chevy Volt or a hybrid like the best-selling Toyota Prius, they can head to New Jersey State Auto Auction. The deal has a wide selection of used cars in NJ to choose from, including alternative fuel options as well as efficient gasoline-powered models.