Edmunds has a report with video comparing 4 cars in real world driving around Las Vegas. While there may be not clear winner, there is a clear loser – the Ford Focus comes in last on every test. I think it is relatively inexpensive (being around $14k, very near the smart), however, it seems that scoring a good used VW Jetta TDI from this test might be the cheapest overall option.
While the real world smart mileage is decent (40.0 mpg combined for this test), I still think it is not compelling enough (especially since it requires premium gas), unless you always have to park in tight spots.
The prius might have lost the added benefit of carpool lane stickers here in CA, and the tax credit may have been reduced (or gone entirely at this point?), but I still think the added cost over the Ford is worth it. Back of the envelope, and using $4 a gallon gas, it would take approx. 225,000 miles to cover a $9,000 difference in price (I am using $14k vs $23k).
I think the drubbing of the Focus shows how far the US auto makers need to go to re-align with a future of high gas prices.
