Look no further than the non-hybrid Civic. It gets an EPA 36mpg highway with an automatic and bigger engine. Some of it has to be gearing, some of it has to be aero.

 

It does. They had to open the holes up a bit in the front, that's all.

Spring update: after spending far too much work time searching the forums and reading threads it looks like Swifts might be what I'm looking for. Subtle drop, improved ride and handling. Just need to make absolutely certain to get the Swifts designed for USDM cars, as the JDMs are quite different.

 

The insight I think. It is one of the (or THE) most aero mainstream cars you can buy.
I think an eco light is good enough. It might be better b/c it's simple. Numbers need interpretation whilke a light just "tells" you you're right, wrong, or neutral. Kia said in their new optima, it boosted economy 10-20%

Kia adds Eco Driving System to Optima sedan - AutoblogGreen

 

Wow, the "Economy" light returneth.

Indicators like that were not uncommon during one of those last gas crises, can't remember which one now. Back then they were primarily just an intake pressure (vacuum) sensor hooked up to a light bulb; hopefully this time around they'll be a bit more sophisticated.