2009 Toyota Prius

The most fuel-efficient car of the 2009 model year car is the hybrid-car poster child, the Toyota Prius. It is rated by the Environmental Protection Agency at 48 mpg city and 45 mpg highway, but reviewers say actual mileage varies widely, depending on outside temperature, driving style and city versus highway usage, of course. Still, typical gas-mileage averages fall in line with the EPA estimates. The Prius' hybrid system combines a 76-horsepower, 1.5-liter, four-cylinder gas engine with an electric motor for a combined peak output of 110 horsepower. The full-hybrid Prius can run solely on its electric motor at low speeds until the gas engine kicks in for extra power. This power transition is not as smooth as that seen in newer hybrids. ConsumerGuide.com reports a "slight shudder" on the changeover. While acceleration is pretty slow (zero to 60 mph takes 10.3 seconds, according to Edmunds.com), the electric engine produces plenty of torque, so most reviewers say the Prius feels adequately responsive in typical city driving.

With compact exterior proportions and unique bodywork, the Prius surprises many reviewers with its generous room inside. In fact, the Prius is officially a midsize car based on its interior and cargo volume. Test drivers like the hatchback versatility and 14.4 cubic feet of cargo space, which expands with the 60/40 split-folding rear seats. While the aerodynamic design is rarely called attractive, reviewers like the fact that the Prius is a hybrid-only model line with distinctive styling, which appeals to car buyers who like to promote the fact that their car is eco-friendly. Compared to the average new car, pollution is cut by almost 90 percent, according to calculations by Toyota. It meets California Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle and Partial Zero Emission Vehicle standards.

Critics say the Prius is not entertaining to drive. "The Prius' brake pedal feels like a lumpy mattress underfoot as the transition from regenerative braking to pure mechanical braking is clumsy, while the electric-assist steering responds with all the enthusiasm of warm tapioca," summarizes Inside Line's Jason Kavanagh. Editors of Edmunds.com report that "the only fun you'll have in a Prius is when you're playing the 'maximize my MPG' game with the dash-mounted energy monitor." For more kicks, or for those who aren't into hatchbacks, reviewers prefer the Honda Civic Hybrid (*Est. $23,650), although it accelerates even slower than the Prius. Another option is the roomier Toyota Camry Hybrid (*Est. $26,150), which is priced like a well-equipped Prius. A compelling argument is made for several nonhybrid economy cars, such as the fuel-sipping Volkswagen Jetta TDI (*Est. $22,270 to $23,870), a refined sedan or wagon with a low-emissions turbodiesel engine that gets up to 41 mpg on the highway. "The Jetta sedan is more of a real car, with more comfortable accommodations and familiar dynamics," writes Inside Line's Chris Walton in a comparison of the VW Jetta TDI and 2009 Toyota Prius.