Audi A3 TDI: The entry-level luxury A3 becomes one of the most efficient vehicles in its class with the addition of Audi's smooth 2.0 TDI engine. This engine produces 140 horsepower and an impressive 236 pound-feet of torque, and it's smooth on the freeway so the A3's reputation as a premium compact isn't in danger. A six-speed automatic transmission is standard equipment. Freeway fuel economy is estimated at over 40 mpg.

Fisker Karma: Fisker burst onto the scene just two years ago with plans to offer the first luxury plug-in hybrid, and along with Tesla, has gone a long way toward helping to make the electric car sexy. The Karma luxury sedan is due to enter production in the third quarter of 2010, and Fisker claims to have over 1500 customer deposits on hand for the car.

Lexus HS250h: Though Lexus has made a name for itself as the primary manufacturer of luxury hybrid vehicles, the HS250h is its first dedicated hybrid. The HS250h comes off like a luxury Prius, with Lexus' familiar styling cues and attention to detail coupled with a hybrid system that's geared more for power than economy in most situations.

Mercedes B-Class F-Cell: Mercedes' B-Class is available in Canada and Europe, but hasn't been sold in the United States. That just means that the small test fleet of F-Cell fuel cell vehicles that will be available in California this year will look that much more unique on the road. The F-Cell is a hydrogen-powered compact whose 80-kilowatt fuel cell, battery pack and hydrogen tanks provide 285 miles of gasoline-free driving.

Mitsubishi MiEV:  Mitsubishi still hasn't released a definite on-sale date for the MiEV electric for North America, but has confirmed that it plans to market the vehicle here.  Sized like a four-door smart car, the MiEV is an ultra-compact urban city car.

Tesla Model S: Tesla's high-performance, high-dollar Roadster was just the beginning for the all-electric company. With the Roadster becoming a familiar face, Tesla is preparing to introduce the Model S, a more mainstream and less expensive electric. The full-electric family sedan promises a 300-mile range and a startling 5.6 second 0-60 dash, as well as cargo-friendly five-door construction and a starting price of $49,900.