A few days ago, we posted the Top 5 Finalists in the 2009 Green Car Award. We didn’t get into many details regarding the vehicles listed on there, but Shrawan, the Editor at indianautosblog.com put together a short article on the Top 5 “green” finalists.

Car Journal, the leading resource for information about exciting and environmentally positive vehicles, has announced the finalists for its annual Green Car of the Year award for 2009. The award recognizes new model vehicles that provide real answers for new car buyers looking for a personal stake in lessening environmental impact and without any surprises, the 3-Series diesel (335d) has booked a birth in the finalist’s roll call.

So, without further ado, we bring to you – The Top 5 Green cars for 2009(in alphabetical order)

1) 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. This car, as per reports, is definitely heading India’s way in the next year or so.

2) 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.

3) 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.

4) 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.

5) Volkswagen 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.

Of all the five cars, the BMW 335d and the VW Jetta are the only diesel engined cars. The VW and BMW clean diesels are leading edge models signaling the advent of highly efficient, advanced diesel sedans that meet all emission certifications worldwide. These two cars keep showing to the world that the Internal combustion engine is still alive, and can give Hybrids a run for their money! Quite simply the 335d has become synonymous to fuel economy!

Source  Indianautosblog.com