High-End Cars Go Small

Rising fuel costs and stricter environmental standards are affecting car selection for everyone, including luxury-car buyers. In 2012, premium auto manufacturers have responded by introducing vehicles that combine eco-friendly features and a more compact size with the typical performance and quality characteristics of luxury brands.

It's a growing trend; high-end cars are going small.

The eco-friendly car was once the domain of budget-conscious or niche buyers. But today, discerning shoppers can find environmentally friendly autos in such cars as the fuel-sipping Lexus hybrid hatchback or high-performance BMW small coupe.

These smaller luxury cars often have lower price points when compared to their standard versions. Many have starting prices of about $30,000. This means some shoppers will have an opportunity to enter the luxury market at an affordable price point.

Here are some 2012 premium compact models that fit that mold of combining eco-friendly features with high-end luxury and performance packaging.

This four-door hybrid hatchback was chosen as a 2012 Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, or IIHS. It did so by receiving top marks for frontal and side impact, roof strength and head restraints.

The CT 200h has a Vehicle Proximity Notification System, which warns pedestrians and cyclists of its approach by emitting a low-pitch sound. This hybrid luxury car also includes a trial of the Safety Connect system, a subscription-based telematics service package that includes emergency assistance, automatic collision notification and a stolen-vehicle locator.

Eco-conscious drivers will likely appreciate the automaker's claims that it is designed to be at least 90% recyclable. The CT 200h is Bluetooth compatible, has a six-speaker audio system, rain-sensing wipers and eight air bags.

Mercedes-Benz claims the world's largest supply of fuel-cell vehicles in operation, and the B-Class F-Cell is on the cutting edge as the first zero-emission Mercedes-Benz available.

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Five Small, Eco-Friendly Luxury Cars That Sip Gas