Small Wagon

1st Place (tie): 2006 Pontiac Vibe
Combined EPA Fuel Economy: 31
Powertrain: 1.8 liter, 4 cyl., 4-AT

1st Place (tie): 2006 Scion xB
Combined EPA Fuel Economy: 31
Powertrain: 1.5 liter, 4 cyl., 4-AT

1st Place (tie): 2006 Toyota Matrix
Combined EPA Fuel Economy: 31
Powertrain: 1.8 liter, 4 cyl., 4-AT

Many consumers in need of cargo carrying space can avoid an expensive, fuel-thirsty SUV by choosing a small station wagon. Sure, the EPA calls them station wagons, but you can call them whatever lets you sleep at night. Choose something like Active Lifestyle Support Vehicle, or ALSV – the hottie at the gym won’t know what the heck you’re talking about, and you’ll be saving enough moolah to actually go on a date. Our pick of the top three in the class is the boxy Scion xB. Sure, it generates the least amount of power, but it’s fresh, functional and can be customized with a wide variety of dealer-installed equipment.

Runners-Up	Make and Model	Combined MPG	Powertrain
2nd Place	Pontiac Vibe AWD	28	1.8 liter, 4cyl., 4-AT
	Toyota Matrix AWD	28	1.8 liter, 4cyl., 4-AT
3rd Place	Suzuki Aerio SX	27	2.3 liter, 4 cyl., 4-AT
4th Place	Suzuki Aerio SX AWD	26	2.3 liter, 4 cyl., 4-AT
5th Place	Subaru Impreza 2.5 TS	25	2.5 liter, 4 cyl., 4-AT
	Subaru Outback Sport	25	2.5 liter, 4 cyl., 4-AT