The market for hybrid vehicles has grown over the past years. As more automakers enter the segment, the battle for the best hybrid becomes tighter. While some have been not been very successful in making an impact, some have risen up the ranks and proven themselves to be formidable contenders as the automakers with the best hybrids. Chevrolet, Honda, Lexus and Toyota are among the top dogs competing for the title of the best.
2017 Chevrolet Volt
Priced at $34,085 and now available at participating dealers in all 50 states, the Chevrolet Volt is equipped with a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine capable of 149 horsepower and 294-lb ft. of torque. This is matched with one-speed automatic transmission with a front-wheel drive (FWD) drive train. In a review given by Car and Driver, the Chevrolet Volt has a fuel economy rate of city and highway driving of 53 and 45 miles per gallon respectively.
2017 Honda CR-Z
With a Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) tag of $21,130 - $25, 925 and expected to be released before the year end, the 2017 Honda CR-Z comes with a FWD 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine capable of 130 horsepower and 140 lb-ft of torque. This is paired with a six-speed manual transmission with a fuel economy rate of 31mpg in the city and 38mpg on the highway. A review from Top Honda Cars stated that the 2017 Honda CR-Z is capable of going from zero to 60mph in less than seven seconds.
2017 Lexus CT200h
With an MSRP of $31,225 and expected release early in 2017, the Lexus CT200h comes with a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine capable of 134 horsepower and 105 lb-ft of torque paired with a CTV automatic transmission. The 2017 Lexus CT200h has a fuel economy rate of 43 and 40 mpg in city and highway driving.
2017 Toyota Prius V
The 2018 Toyota Prius V has an MSRP of$26,675 - $30,935 as reported by U.S News. No details were mentioned regarding its release date as of yet. The specs include a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that is paired with an electric motor, capable of 134 horsepower and can go from zero to 60mph in 10.3 seconds. It has a fuel economy rating of 43/39 mpg city and highway driving and features a roomy back seat and spacious cargo hold.
Conclusion
The battle of the best hybrids is not decided by what the automaker brings but by what the buyers prefer. While it's true that some consumers are looking for economic vehicles, some are willing to sacrifice fuel efficiency for more power and some can even sacrifice both in favor of the vehicle's appearance.
