Green Car Journal recently awarded Honda the prestigious Green Car Award for the Civic Natural Gas. The award was presented to the Japanese automaker at the Los Angeles Auto Show. Not only does the car get an equivalent 48 miles per gallon on the highway, but the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency rates it as the cleanest-running internal combustion vehicle available in the country.

"There is no other vehicle like the Civic Natural Gas on American highways, and this recognition has been a long time coming for Honda," said Ron Cogan, editor and publisher of the Green Car Journal, which issues the annual award. "The new-generation Civic Natural Gas features greater fuel efficiency, a handsome and roomier new design and tailpipe emissions levels untouchable by any other internal combustion production vehicle."

Motorists who are still driving gas-powered cars can take steps to reduce their emissions and improve fuel economy, such as getting oil and oil filters changed regularly and scheduling routine maintenance. Fuel efficiency is especially important for many drivers as gas prices are higher this holiday season than they have been in a decade, according to AAA. Drivers can also save money by investing in a car warranty that can cover the cost of maintenance.