Smart & Economical Alternatives to a Prius Hybrid

The automotive industry has evolved significantly over the past few decades. Cars have become considerably more fuel efficient, and the Prius seems to be the icon of high fuel economy. More choices are available that may suit your needs.

Here, are a few to consider:

2012 Chevrolet Cruze Eco

This is the only non-hybrid on the list, although it achieves a quite impressive 42 mpg. It is a cute little package with a MSRP of $19,995, which is a reasonable amount. It has a fully gasoline-powered powertrain and comes with a 1.4 liter 4-cylinder engine. Unlike some other cars, the claimed MPG is a remarkably real-life estimate. This car is quite capable of reaching up to 47 mpg, under certain circumstances. Overall, this stands as a truly viable alternative to the Toyota Prius.

2012 Honda Civic Hybrid

Another competitor in the high MPG race, and has some new appeal this year: it is a new design. It is in the same segment as the Chevy Cruze Eco, but gains somewhat of an advantage over the fact that the hybrid drive system supplies the Civic with 2 extra mpg over its competitor. It also has outdone itself this year in the fact that it had gained an extra 4 mpg over the last year. However, beyond the fact that its fuel economy has improved, this car is exactly what everyone wants in a Civic. Not necessarily luxurious, but keeps on ticking; splendid fuel economy, which combines with bargain price. Perfecto! The Civic has done it again.

2012 Ford Fusion Hybrid

Once again, we list another contender that holds the honor of being able to put some high numbers on its window sticker. However, it is not just about being able to go a long distance on a gallon of gas. Overall, Ford has upped its ante over the last few years, and that work has resulted with higher quality from the Fusion Hybrid. The previous two cars on this list are in the “compact” class, but the Fusion counts as a “mid-size sedan”. Although the Fusion is clearly the largest car, it still offers a quite impressive 41/36 MPG. Even though it is 10.6 inches longer than the Cruze, it still manages to achieve within 1 MPG of the Cruze’s top MPG figure. Fuel economy aside, the Fusion is an enjoyable, roomy sedan that is worth your money. The solid 2.5 liter I4 in the Fusion Hybrid is almost wholly mute at most speeds, except when pressed hard, and can push itself from 0-60 in 7.8 seconds. All summed up this nifty mid-size car is certainly deserving of the $28,100 MSRP that accompanies it.

2012 Toyota Camry Hybrid

Like the Civic, this is a new design year (or “generation”) for the 2012 Camry. It still comes with everything someone would expect (and want) from a Camry, yet it also includes particularly more aggressive styling; the price has gone down almost $1,000 dollars from last year’s Camry, upon others. It offers spectacular mileage at 43/39 MPG by using a 2.5 Liter Inline-4. 90% of Camrys made in the last 17 years are still up and ready to go. This is a testament to the fact that buying a Camry stands not only as an investment in your transportation needs as of now, but also to the fact that it will prove as an investment of that of which stands the test of time. At a rather pleasant price of $25,900, it scores high on MPGs, while still managing to undercut the Prius’ price by $500. As the advertisement goes: “It’s Ready, Are You?”

2012 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid

The last car on this list (but certainly not least) is the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. It offers many technologically advanced features, right down to being able to claim a rather above-average gas mileage of 35/40 MPG. It is highly original and quirky design appeals to many. (As another choice, one can also choose the conventionally-powered Hyundai Sonata with a more refined look.) The Sonata is powered by a 2.4 Liter Inline-4 engine paired with an advanced electric motor combining to make an impressive 206 net horsepower. The Sonata has the bragging rights to many remarkable features, such as seats designed to reduce leg discomfort and fatigue on long trips, integrated Bluetooth, a rearview camera, and a hybrid technology display. Apart from that, there are additional qualities, to boast about: There is more passenger room space in the Sonata than there is in the Toyota Camry Hybrid, Nissan Altima Hybrid, and Ford Fusion Hybrid. As for one last thing – Hyundais have a 10-year, 100,000 mile warranty, which is certainly useful. All in all, this is an excellent decision if someone is in the market. (And keep in mind- Hyundai offers 4 cars that can achieve over 40 MPG.)

Clearly the Prius has some competition. All of these cars are viable alternatives to the Prius. It is a matter of personal preference. Any of these hybrids would be a wise choice to make. Get out there and get your 40 miles per gallon!

This article on automotive trends was edited using Grammarly grammar checker technology