5 affordable, gas-sipping used luxury cars

One focus of the climate change summit in Paris this week is on the need to use less gasoline as part of the effort to help limit greenhouse gas emissions. If you've always wanted a luxury car but weren't sure you could afford it, why not get a used one that's more affordable and that also has a high gas mileage rating, and thus a greener profile?

Even with U.S. gas prices down, high-MPG cars are going to save money in your driving budget. From the list that Edmunds.com keeps of cars that are rated for 30 MPG or more in combined city and highway driving, we selected five luxury 2014 models from various auto makers.

Three are hybrids, one is a standard gasoline engine and one a diesel. With consumer demand in the current market highest for large SUVs and pickups, it's a good time to get a bargain on these hybrids and other high-MPG cars. So, we looked for 2014 models that are selling for $30,00 or less, according to used-car pricing from Kelley Blue Book and its website kbb.com.

Click here for a closer look at these gas-sipping luxury cars, starting with the smaller models.

2014 Lexus CT 200h

With a combined city-highway rating of 42 MPG, this Lexus hybrid hatchback is selling at about $22,950, according to Kelley Blue Book's target price. Among reviewers surveyed by U.S. News, the CT 200h ranked second for used upscale small cars over $20,000.

Test drivers praised the CT 200h for its luxurious cabin, comfortable ride and relatively agile handling. Standard equipment in the CT 200h includes a six-speaker stereo system and Bluetooth music streaming as well as individual driver and passenger controls for heating and air conditioning.

2014 BMW 328d

With a combined city-highway rating of 37 MPG, this BMW sedan is selling for about $29,950. This is the only diesel in our listing. Unlike Volkswagen, no doubt has been cast on the BMW diesel ratings.

Test drivers loved the lively turbocharged engine and agile handling that's common to the BMW 3 Series. Reviewers also liked the comfortable ride and spacious rear seats. And they praised the BMW iDrive infotainment system for its ease of use and sharp graphics.

2014 Lexus ES 300h

This hybrid version of the popular Lexus sedan has a combined rating of 40 MPG and is selling for right around $30,000.

Test drivers praised the 300h for its smooth, quiet ride and its stylish interior including roomy back seats. Trunk space is good for a hybrid, where the battery pack takes up some room. Standard features include Bluetooth music streaming and satellite radio capability.

2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA250

This sleek four-door with a combined rating of 30 MPG -- including 38 in highway driving -- is selling for about $27,450.

Test drivers praised the power from the turbocharged, four-cylinder gasoline engine. And they liked the nimble handling on winding roads. The CLA 250 comes standard with some advanced safety features, such as driver drowsiness warning and forward collision warning.

2014 Lincoln MKZ hybrid

With a combined rating of 38 MPG, this Lincoln hybrid is selling for about $23,500. This hybrid was well-priced even as a new car -- with the same sticker as the gas-only version instead of the typical premium price for a hybrid.

Drivers praised the MKZ hybrid's styling and smooth, quiet ride. They also liked the comfortable seats, including roomy rear seats.