So, you currently own a Volkswagen that's equipped with a TDI (Turbocharged Direct Injection) diesel engine. Who can blame you? It seemed like you were getting the best of all worlds: A fun-to-drive vehicle that is great on fuel AND good for the environment. And those commercials were just so darned entertaining. How could you have guessed that you were being shamelessly lied to?

Anyway, as of right now, Volkswagen TDI drivers are being told to do nothing. While car dealerships are no longer permitted to sell the vehicles in question, customers who already own them have been instructed to keep driving their cars as they normally would until the recall has been sorted out. But, you may already be considering alternatives because, even if VW manages to fix the HUGE emissions issue, there's a good chance that the necessary correction will make your car less fuel efficient.

What are your options?

Gas Powered and Hybrid Cars Made by Honest Companies

If you are a fan of diesel, you probably have good reasons for maintaining your affinity. Cars with diesel engines can be a lot of fun to drive, and there's a lot of potential with diesel if engines can really and truly be designed to burn it in a safe and effective way. However, for right now, here are some very efficient, earth-friendly and modestly priced options to consider.

The Kia Optima Hybrid

Kia Optima Hybrid: This vehicle gets up to 40 mpg on the highway, has a 199 Horsepower engine and comes with Kia's very generous 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. The starting MSRP is $25,990 for a new model.

The Hyundai Sonata Hybrid

Hyundai Sonata Hybrid: This midsize sedan can also get up to 40 mpg on the highway, and it has a 199 Horsepower engine. You can pick up a new one, along with Hyundai's excellent warranty, for around $26,000.

The Mitsubishi Mirage

Mitsubishi Mirage: Unbelievably, the starting MSRP for one of these gas-only engine vehicles is just $12,995. For this astounding price, you'll get 44 mpg on the highway, a 74 Horsepower engine and a 10-year/100,000 mile powertrain warranty.

The Chevrolet Cruze Eco

Chevrolet Cruze Eco: This spacious sedan option has a 138 Horsepower engine and gets 42 mpg on the highway. Running on gas only, pricing for this Chevy starts at $20,920. It also features 10 airbags, a six-speaker audio system and USB connectivity.

The Ford C-Max Hybrid

Ford C-Max Hybrid: Getting 37 mpg on the highway and featuring a 141 Horsepower engine, this eco-friendly hatchback from Ford starts at $25,045, and has the upscale appearance of a vehicle with a much higher price tag. It also boasts the latest in connectivity technology.

These are just a few of the many options available if you're in the market for a reliable, well-priced vehicle that will save you money at the pump. Toyota also offers several good choices, including the Yaris, the Corolla and the Camry, all of which have an MSRP below $25,000.

When Trust is the Determining Factor

Since many drivers are currently feeling incredibly betrayed by Volkswagen, it seems like trust will be a huge issue for many car buyers. Which auto manufacturer can you actually trust? According to Kelley Blue Book, you can confidently put your faith in Subaru. When handing out the 2015 Brand Image Awards, Subaru was awarded the Most Trusted Brand honor in the "mainstream" category. And which Subaru model might you gravitate towards? You may possibly be interested in the Impreza. It gets 37 mpg on the highway and starts at an affordable $18,195.

When Financing is Your Top Concern

If you're in the market for an inexpensive and reliable vehicle, but are concerned that your damaged credit will prevent you from obtaining auto financing, Auto Credit Express can help. We will connect you with a dealer who works with lenders that are qualified to handle your unique situation.

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