Aside from sport utilities, there are lots of options when it comes to buying a hybrid car. Below is an overview of all the hybrid cars you can purchase today, along with links to articles, reviews, and test drives.
Toyota Prius
The Toyota Prius first reached the U.S. in 2000, with a model change in 2004. Now, the 3rd generation Prius is here. Some even have solar panels built into the roof to help power the air conditioner and all are rated at 50 mpg or better. Prices for this five passenger hybrid vehicle start at $22,000, but expect to pay closer to $30,000 for the loaded version. Click the Prius photo to learn all about the car most people associate with “hybrid”.
Honda Civic Hybrid
With an EPA of 40 mpg in the city and 45 mpg on the highway, the Honda Civic Hybrid is quite the environmentalist. Designed to look almost identical to the standard-fuel version, the visible difference between the hybrid and standard model is a small hybrid logo. Base price for this serious green contender starts around $24,000 and runs north of $28,000 with navigation, leather, and various upgrades.
Nissan Altima Hybrid
The Nissan Altima Hybrid debuted in 2007 and became a crowd favorite when Motor Trend magazine announced it beat out Camry for best mid-size hybrid. Currently only sold in a few states that meet California’s strict emissions standards, this vehicle combines performance with an eco-friendly touch. Keeping with the Altima tradition, the hybrid model offers superior performance and safety ratings that Nissan enthusiasts are accustomed to seeing.
Toyota Camry Hybrid
Utilizing “Hybrid Synergy Drive”, the same technology used in the Toyota Prius, the Toyota Camry has consistently been a top choice for consumers for over a decade. Priced at around $26,000, not much more than the standard-fuel model, the Camry Hybrid is an affordable option for anyone trying to get into a new hybrid.Loaded with standard features and five out of five stars for safety, make sure you check out this Camry Hybrid the next time your on a lot.
Chevy Malibu Hybrid
Originally introduced in 2008, in an effort to compete with the Toyota Camry, the Chevy Malibu Hybrid gets an EPA 26 mpg in the city and 34mpg on the highway. With a starting price a little over $26,000, consumers looking to go hybrid only invest about $3,000 more than the standard-fuel model.The newest model boasts a 164 horsepower engine and 17″ wheels, so drivers can expect a smooth driving experience. In what was a tough year for the American auto-industry, the Chevy Malibu Hybrid seemed to hold it’s ground.
Lexus GS 450h
Looking for a luxury, high performance vehicle, but don’t want to break the bank every time you head to the pump? Look no further than the Lexus GS 450h. Called a “luxury sedan with an environmental heart”, by Forbes magazine, this eco-conscious performance machine starts just below $60,000. Throw in an unrivaled safety and reliability rating along with an EPA 25 mpg and it’s already beat out every other luxury vehicle in it’s class.
Saturn Aura Hybrid Green Line
Released in 2005, the Saturn Aura Green Line became so popular that it was named 2007 North American Car of the Year. As the lowest priced hybrid on the market it gets an EPA 24 mpg in the city and 32 on the highway. The newest model starts at just over $24,000 making them affordable for any consumer looking to get themselves into a new hybrid. However, the Saturn Aura is only available in select markets, so check out your local dealers to see if you can take one for a spin.
Lexus LS 600H
Add zero to 60 in 5.5 seconds, 488 horsepower, and an EPA 21 mpg and what do you get? The most expensive car ever to be manufactured by Lexus. With features like LED projector headlights, traffic navigation system, heated front and rear seats, blue tooth capability, a music server with a capacity for 2,000 songs and lets not forget a 19-speaker Mark Levinson Surround Sound System, it’s know wonder the LS 600h has a $105,000 starting price. Yes, it is the only Super Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle in the ultraluxury class, but if you’re main concern is the EPA rating, than your about $70,000 over budget.
Ford Fusion Hybrid
With the newly integrated SmartGuage system, the Ford Fusion Hybrid has just as many display options as the Toyota Prius. Starting at $27,000, the Fusion is a modestly priced hybrid that makes it easy for buyers to make the environmental switch. Boasting an EPA rating of 40 mpg on the highway and up to 47 mpg in the city, it easily competes with the Toyota Camry and Nissan Altima. Newly released models have upgraded interior and suspension, making the driving experience more like that of an upscale sedan.
