Top 2011 Hybrid Cars

Hybrid cars combine a gasoline-powered engine with an electric motor. The electric motor on a hybrid vehicle runs off of rechargeable batteries. For most consumers, hybrid cars offer improved fuel economy that translates to additional savings throughout the year. Hybrid cars have become increasingly popular among car manufacturers and regulatory agencies because of decreased emissions and less long-term environmental impact. However, the cost of the batteries for hybrid cars is one of the biggest expenses involved in owning a car that runs on both gasoline and electric power.

While electric cars are available, hybrid vehicles offer a compromise between relying 100 percent on rechargeable battery power and gasoline. There are now several hybrid cars available in nearly every part of the United States, with additional alternative vehicles being introduced every year. The majority of all hybrid car models are sedans and two-door compact cars, which adds to the overall fuel economy. However, there are also some hybrid SUVs and even a couple of light duty trucks that offer this same combination of reliance on electric power and fuel.

The cost of hybrid cars can vary greatly, depending on the make and the model. Among sedans and family cars, the top 2011 hybrid cars are the Toyota Prius, the Honda Civic Hybrid, and the 2011 Ford Fusion. The Honda Insight is still one of the top-ranked hybrid cars on the market, but it offers a more compact ride and is perhaps less-suitable for families. The 2011 Toyota Prius offers up to 50 mpg on highways, and is priced just under $23,000, while the Honda Insight is priced at $18,200 and averages 41 mpg on the highway.

The 2011 Ford Fusion Hybrid carries a little steeper price tag, at $28,800, but the car is packed with top-of-the-line cabin electronics and boasts 39 mpg. The Honda CR-Z Hybrid is another compact car that offers something more sporty that can still achieve 37 mpg on the highway. The Nissan Altima is also available as a hybrid car, offering up to 34 mpg on the highway and a price just under $27,000 with enough room for the kids.

In terms of SUVs, the Ford Escape Hybrid remains the top-ranked hybrid SUV for 2011. The Escape Hybrid is available for just under $30,000, and it is still capable of up to 32 mpg. Other hybrid SUVs for 2011 include the Mercury Mariner, the Mazda Tribute Hybrid, and the Toyota Highlander.