Our frequent contributor, Jamie Lendino, has been crafting a great story for PCMag.com: He's hitting the streets to find out firsthand the best options for an alternative-fuel-powered car and to answer these questions: Are any of them practical? Would any of them fit your budget? The first part of his report just went up; we'll link to part II when that publishes, as well. From the story:

There's been plenty of interest in hybrids, clean diesels, and other eco-friendly vehicles lately, whether for environmental reasons or simply because of the rising cost of gas. But there also comes a point--usually when it's time to make a purchase--when you must decide whether any of them are practical, or fit your budget.

Alternative-fueled or not, car technology has advanced significantly in recent years. The latest gas engines are cleaner and more efficient than ever before; a few even approach the eco credentials of a hybrid power train. Meanwhile, some of today's economy sedans sport cutting-edge navigation systems, hard drives, and Bluetooth connectivity--once the exclusive domain of BMW and Mercedes.

Read the rest of "The Geek's Guide to Car Shopping, Part I" at PCMag.com.