Toyota Prius

Bean counters argue that the Prius is two to three thousand dollars more than a comparable Camry or Corolla. That's a joke to Prius owners. Those conventional vehicles can't be compared to the Prius in terms of its unique technology and design, and especially in the categories that matter most to the average hybrid buyer:

• Fuel economy – EPA combined city/highway rating of 50 mpg
• Emissions – 89 percent fewer smog-forming emissions than the average new car, exceeding the standards for a Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (SULEV)

All that in a package in the mid-$20k range—and you can feel damn good about getting from Point A to Point B. Relatively low gas prices and a soft automotive market—as well as Toyota's efforts to ramp-up production and offer dealership incentives—have successfully burned off waiting lists for the Prius. There's ample supply and plenty of wiggle room to negotiate with the dealership.

Honda's hybrids, the Honda Civic Hybrid and Honda Insight, are thousands of dollars less than Prius. If you are looking to get the most hybrid for the money, and can give up some interior space, then those Honda gas-electric cars should go on your shopping list.