The new AEI study takes into account information from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and consumers related to fuel economy, air pollution and greenhouse gasses for vehicles from the 2006 model year. Fuel economy accounts for about half the score.

Among automakers, Ford, Honda and Toyota had the most vehicles on the list, with six vehicles each from their various nameplates. General Motors and Volkswagen placed three vehicles apiece. The sole German automaker with vehicles on the AEI list, Volkswagen had the Golf, Jetta and New Beetle among the top 30. However, the diesel versions of these models did not make the cut.

"High gas prices, coupled with consumers becoming more familiar with alternative powertrain technology, are definitely increasing consumer interest in hybrids and flexible fuels," said Mike Marshall, director of automotive emerging technologies at J.D. Power and Associates. "However, the additional price premiums associated with hybrid vehicles, which can run from $3,000 to $10,000 more than a comparable non-hybrid vehicle, remain the biggest concern among consumers considering a hybrid. The AEI highlights several non-hybrid models available that help consumers reduce fuel use and emissions."

Top 8 eco-friendly cars-

1.        ACURA RSX

2.        CHEVROLET AVEO

3.        CHEVROLET COBALT

4.        FORD ESCAPE HYBRID

5.        Ford FOCUS

6.        FORD FOCUS WAGON

7.        HONDA ACCORD

8.        HONDA ACCORD HYBRID

9.        HONDA CIVIC

10.    honda civic hybrid

INFO SOURCE: http://editorial.autos.msn.com/article.aspx?cp-documentid=435625