2012 Nissan Leaf SL compare

The 2012 Nissan Leaf offers a good blend of affordability and all-around performance for city dwellers and suburbanites looking to go zero-emission, but its cruising range limits its appeal for long hauls.

Offering all the fuel economy and practical interior space of a Toyota Prius, the 2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid adds significant power and a more engaged driving experience.

Mileage has never varied more than it will between two 2012 Chevrolet Volt owners, but with regular charging, this part-time EV is capable of fantastic efficiency -- just don't look too hard at its dashboard.

A very rewarding car to drive, the 2013 Ford Focus ST will satisfy enthusiasts on weekend runs and the daily commute, but the cabin tech is a mixed bag, with the excellence of Sync offset by the navigation system interface.