The best hybrid vehicles for the fuel-conscious driver

The demand and availability for hybrid cars has been growing steadily over the years because of the increasing concerns of motorists regarding the price increases of gas. Major automobile manufacturers have come up with their respective versions of hybrid vehicles, and consumers have lots of considerations when purchasing these cars. Of course, price ranks among the most important of those concerns.

To help them decide on which cars to choose, here is a list of some of the best hybrid cars flooding the market today.

1. Toyota (buy, sell) Prius

Considered by many as the top-rated hybrid among them all, because of the presence of a gasoline engine that provides assistance to the electric motor when operating. For slower speeds, it is the electric motor that runs the car, and when the speed acts up, the gas engine takes over the reins.

The mileage for the Prius is estimated at 60 mpg for city-driving speeds and 51 for the highway performance.

Reportedly, the Prius has more spacious interiors compared to its closest competitor, the Honda (buy, sell) Civic hybrid, and they say that the Prius is also better mileage-wise. This bestseller from Toyota (buy, sell) comes with a distinctive exterior that sets it apart from its fellow hybrids belonging to the economy-class.

2. Honda (buy, sell) Civic Hybrid

This hybrid vehicle does not look different from its past models, and it does not stand apart from its competitors. Even though it is always the bridesmaid compared to the illustrious Prius, it has a reputation for higher speed operation, especially on highways.

The Civic also maintains the runner-up status with the Prius when it comes to fuel efficiency, with the Civic chalking up 26 mpg for driving within city range.

3. Ford Escape Hybrid

It is the first Hybrid SUV in the market, another first for Ford Motors. Its success heralded the launching of the Mercury Mariner a year earlier than was intended. This hybrid vehicle produces 28 mpg in combination driving. This gem from Ford is known for its spacious cargo room, its easy maneuverability and its visibility.

Its add-ons include anti-lock brakes and outlet for 110-volts located in the control panel. The Escape Hybrid still reigns supreme above its closest SUV rivals, such as Lexus.

4. Honda (buy, sell) Insight

This hybrid from Honda (buy, sell) may not be as award-winning as its competitors, but the Insight is proving itself as the best one when it comes to fuel economy. It runs on an impressive 60 mpg on city driving, and an awesome 66 mpg on the highway.

Although the Insight is not as comfortable and impressive as the popular sister Civic or the famed Toyota (buy, sell) Prius, it will do best as a second-car, or a commuter vehicle.

Other choices include:

2006 Lexus RX 400h - it is the firs SUV in the luxury level, it is known for its indefatigable power, its cool technology and its fuel efficiency.

2006 Toyota (buy, sell) Highlander Hybrid - it is said to drive better than the common SUV, and gives off great power, but the downside is its lack of gadgets on the dashboard.