Car Comparison: Toyota Prius Vs. Ford Fusion Hybrid

Each year car manufacturers battle to produce cars that beat out the competition in several key categories. The categories include safety, fuel economy, interior space, drive-ability, and more. Recently, the battle has further intensified with the addition of hybrid and electric-powered automobiles. Consumers should spend time researching and comparing each model in the class to make a well informed decision based on the facts. Today, we compare two key models in the hybrid category to help your decision when choosing between the Toyota Prius and the Ford Fusion Hybrid.

Fuel Economy - Prius vs Ford Fusion Hybrid

The Toyota Prius and Ford Fusion both operate on a hybrid system utilizing both electric power as well as gasoline. The Toyota Prius hybrid technology produces an astounding 51 mpg in the city and 48 mpg highway. This may confuse many consumers that are used to operating gas only vehicles where highway miles per gallon always outshine city. However, in the Toyota Prius Hybrid city driving enables the driver to use electric power while traveling at the reduced speeds thus increasing the mpg in heavy traffic and congestion.

The Ford Fusion Hybrid produces comparative results in fuel economy with a estimated 41 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway. The engine uses electric power in addition to gas while traveling at speeds below 47 mph and becomes fully dependent on gas at higher speeds. The engine does use gas at lower speeds in high performance situations such as passing and produces over 150hp. City driving can provide 700 miles on a tank of gas. Compared only on fuel economy, the Toyota Prius wins the head-to-head battle.

Advantage: Prius

Interior Space - Prius vs Fusion Hybrid

Most new car buyers are looking for a well designed interior that boasts plenty of leg and headroom and enough space to allow a small family to travel in comfort. Although the Prius and Ford Fusion are smaller mid-sized sedan's, the interior space is an important detail. The Toyota specifications on headroom are 38.6/37.6 inches with leg room listed at 42.5/36.0 inches respectively.

The Fusion is a larger model with comparable numbers though it does have a slight advantage. Headroom is listed at 38.7/37.8 in. while the legroom specifications are 42.3/36.7 in. For taller people the Fusion should be the choice with just enough extra room to add extra comfort for the larger driver or passenger. The Fusion also outperforms the Prius in shoulder and hip room which must be taken into consideration.

Advantage: Fusion

Price - Prius Hybrid vs Ford Fusion Hybrid

The cost for hybrid vehicles continues to be listed at a premium to gas-only vehicles however the gap is shrinking as new technology costs continue to decrease. The Ford Fusion Hybrid starts at $28,100 for a nicely equipped base model. The base hybrid includes such features as keyless entry, dual zone climate control, traction control, and reverse sensor to allow for easier backing.

The Toyota Prius Hybrid has a lower starting MSRP at $22,800. The base model features include integrated fog lights, projector halogen lights, heated mirrors, and remote keyless entry. The features for the Prius II, the lowest prices model are quite extensive and allow for a comfortable ride without skimping on the basics. Upgraded models include premium features such as LED headlights and tail lights, voice activated touch-screen GPS, radar cruise control, as well as a parking assist feature for the most expensive model

Advantage: Prius Hybrid

Based upon the information listed, the Toyota Prius Hybrid comes in at a lower starting point with better fuel economy than that of the Ford. However, the Fusion has an advantage with its spacious interior and extensive features on even the base model. If you have a larger family or if you're of tall stature you may be more inclined to purchase the Ford Fusion. For those that don't mind being a little more cramped, or don't need the added leg and head room of the Fusion, you may elect to buy the lower priced Prius with the better fuel economy.