Toyota Prius

The woes of the car industry have hit Toyota hard in the past few days. First, the problems with the accelarator in their top selling models and now there is evidence that their best-selling Prius is not immune to mechanical difficulties. The Prius Hybrid has been a top choice for many converts who are looking for a cleaner, more environmentally-friendly car. Now that the Prius is showing signs of hesitation, there are still many other options for the hybrid buyer.

Budget-Friendly Hybrids

Honda Insight
Base Price: $19,800
MPG - 40/43 MPG

This compact hybrid is the cheapest hybrid deal on the market. It is approximately $2000 dollars cheaper than Toyota's least expensive Prius model. While the Insight is not as big as the Prius, it will definately get you into the hybrid arena with a cheaper monthly payment.

Honda Civic
Base Price: 22,600
MPG - 40/45MPG

The Honda Civic is the Prius'competition in terms of fuel efficiency. Of all Hybrids on the market, it is second behind the Prius. The Honda Civic also has a cool, sporty look about it that makes it fun to drive and not just environmentally responsible.

Mid-Priced Hybrids

Ford Fusion
Base Price: $27,300
MPG - 41/36 MPG

The base price of the Ford Fusion is about $5,000 over the base of the Prius, but is was recently awarded the 2010 Car of the Year at the 2010 Detroit auto show. While the Fusion has undersold Prius in the past, it's smooth transistion from gas-powered to electric and vice versa will most likely help the Fusion become another viable contender for the hybrid consumer.

Luxury Hybrids

Lexus RX450h
Base Price: $41,700
MPG - 28/27 MPG

Driving in luxury can be a hybrid experience, too. Although, picking up a luxury model is going to afford you more comforts like motorized seat controls and navigational systems that actual fuel efficiency. But with the Lexus RX450 you have more leg room and cargo space than any other luxury hybrid on the market because it is the only luxury SUV Hybrid.

To find out more about different hybrid models on the market check out the website www.hybridcars.com. On this website, you can compare up to three hybrid models at one time and decide what would make the most sense for your family and your budget.

Resources: www.hybridcars.com