Department of Natural Resources
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Released: 13 February, 2003

Canada's Most Fuel-Efficient Car Awards Presented

OTTAWA — Canadians are now better able to choose an energy-efficient vehicle to meet their needs. Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) announced the 2003 EnerGuide Awards, given today to the manufacturers of the most fuel-efficient vehicles in nine categories, at the Canadian International Auto Show in Toronto.

“I would like to congratulate the winners for making strides in vehicle efficiency,” said The Honourable Herb Dhaliwal, Minister of Natural Resources Canada. “Their commitment to energy efficiency helps consumers save money, cut greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality.”

The EnerGuide awards, presented by NRCan’s Office of Energy Efficiency, are proof that manufacturers are committed to helping cut fuel consumption in response to the global challenge of climate change.

The winners are as follows:

• Two seater: Honda Insight (hybrid)
• Subcompact: Mini Cooper, Toyota Celica and Volkswagen New Beetle TDI Diesel
• Compact: Toyota Prius (hybrid)
• Mid-size: Pontiac Vibe and Toyota Corolla Matrix
• Full-size: Chevrolet Impala
• Station wagon: Ford Focus Wagon and Volkswagen Jetta TDI Diesel Wagon
• Pickup truck: Ford Ranger and Mazda B2300
• Special purpose: Ford Escape and Mazda Tribute
• Van: Chevrolet Venture, Oldsmobile Silhouette, Pontiac Montana, Dodge Caravan and Caravan FFV

The awards are based on estimated annual fuel consumption, which is determined by measuring how much fuel each vehicle consumes after driving 20,000 kilometres, 55 percent in the city and 45 percent on the highway.

There are approximately 17 million light-duty cars and trucks on the road today, and they produce about 12 percent of Canada’s greenhouse gas emissions. The EnerGuide Awards can help Canadians compare the new vehicles on their shopping lists with these winners to see their energy-saving opportunities. A mere 10-percent increase in fuel efficiency can put hundreds of dollars in their pockets and reduce greenhouse gas emissions and their impact on climate change.

The EnerGuide initiative builds on the Government of Canada’s commitment to a healthy environment, ensuring the quality of life in our communities and our continued economic prosperity — for the Canada we want, for ourselves and for future generations.

For more information, media may contact:

The following two media backgrounders are also available:

1. Most Fuel-Efficient Vehicles For The 2003 Model Year
2. Energuide For Vehicles