If you’re shopping for a new hybrid, but recent news has made you wary, here are some alternatives to consider. Each of these cars has received the EPA’s Smart Way Elite designation, making them among the greenest vehicles on the road today.
HONDA INSIGHT
BASE MSRP: $19,800 to $23,100
EPA MPG: 40/43
The Honda Insight is the least expensive hybrid on the market. You pay for that lower price with smaller dimensions and an economy-car feel: interior materials feel cheap, and you have to buy an EX model to get cruise control or iPod connectivity. Ride quality is stiff and busy, and noise levels are high. Handling is also disappointing. Steering is light and precise, but the Insight leans dramatically in fast turns and never feels very nimble.
Acceleration is uninspiring, particularly in the fuel-saving Eco Assist mode. Unfortunately, the Insight’s modest performance does not translate into superior fuel economy; its EPA estimates fall well behind the Prius’s 51/48 rating.
Conclusion:
Despite its unspectacular performance, the Insight’s price makes it worth a look. Sales have been disappointing, so discounts should be easier to obtain.
HONDA CIVIC HYBRID
BASE MSRP: $23,800 to $27,000
EPA MPG: 40/45
Unlike the Insight, the Honda Civic Hybrid looks and feels upscale, with classy interior materials and standard features like automatic climate control. Ride quality and noise levels are also better, although the engine is intrusively loud in hard acceleration.
While the Civic Hybrid has 110 horsepower to the Insight’s 98, performance is sluggish. Real-world fuel economy is also disappointing, in part because you have to work the engine hard for even modest acceleration. In December 2009, Honda settled a class-action lawsuit filed by owners who complained of being unable to match the EPA estimates.
Conclusion:
The base Civic Hybrid is worth a look if acceleration is not a high priority. Upscale models are priced dangerously close to more competent rivals.
NISSAN ALTIMA HYBRID
BASE MSRP: $26,780
EPA MPG: 35/33
With strong performance and agile handling, the 198-horsepower Nissan Altima Hybrid is one of the quickest and sportiest hybrids. Sadly, its polish does not match its enthusiasm. Both the engine and electric motor are loud, throttle and brake response is jerky, and the transition between gasoline and electric power can be jarring. Fuel economy is also inferior to key rivals.
Nissan expanded availability for 2010, but the Altima Hybrid is still only available in certain states.
Conclusion:
If driving enjoyment is a priority, the Altima Hybrid deserves consideration — if it’s available in your area. Less-enthusiastic drivers will be better served by the Fusion or Milan.
FORD FUSION HYBRID/MERCURY MILAN HYBRID
BASE MSRP: $27,950 to $28,180
EPA MPG: 41/36
The new Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan Hybrids are nearly identical, differing only in styling and features. While they can’t match the fuel economy of the Prius or the Altima Hybrid’s acceleration, the Fusion and Milan Hybrids score well in both areas. Neither car is sporty, but both have decent handling, a supple ride, and a high level of overall refinement.
The Fusion and Milan Hybrids are attractively priced, but many cars have “Rapid Spec” option packages that push prices above $30,000. Buyers should also be aware that Ford has acknowledged problems with brake feel in these cars. Certain buyers may receive a free software reprogramming that is supposed to address the problem.
Conclusion:
The Fusion and Milan Hybrids don’t lead the field in any one area, but they offer an appealing blend of performance, refinement, and fuel economy. If you’re looking for an environmentally friendly family car, put them near the top of your list.
