2 Most Popular Hybrid Cars

Searching for the most popular hybrid cars may yield some surprising results. Some are considered "full hybrids," which means that the electric motor alone can propel the car under certain driving conditions. Others are considered "mild hybrids," meaning the electric motor assists the gasoline engine but is not able to drive the vehicle by itself.

Whether a full or mild hybrid, nearly every production hybrid on the road today uses a powertrain combination that consists of a gasoline engine and an electric motor, which is connected to a nickel-metal hydride battery. This may make all hybrids seem similar, but each of them takes a different approach with their hybrid technology. Below are 2 of the most popular "full hybrid" cars in America today:

• Toyota Prius - The Prius has been the most popular hybrid since its United States introduction in 2000. In fact, most people associate the word "hybrid" with the Toyota Prius. Redesigned for the 2010 model year, the Prius is powered by Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive system, which pairs a 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine with an electric motor that is driven by a nickel-metal hydride battery. Starting at $22,000, the Prius can be optioned to fit nearly any hybrid buyer's budget. Learn more at http://www.toyota.com.
• Honda Insight - The Insight is the most direct competitor to the Prius. They look very similar, but that's where many of the similarities end. New for the 2010 model year, the Insight uses a 1.3-liter 4-cylinder engine combined with an electric motor that is powered by a nickel-metal hydride battery. As compared to the Prius, the Insight is estimated to get a little lower fuel economy, but it also starts at only $19,800. More information can be found at http://automobiles.honda.com.

Many other options exist for hybrid car buyers. In fact, nearly every manufacturer produces a hybrid of some sort. Hybrid buyers need to consider how much money they want to spend, what kind of fuel economy they want to achieve, and how technologically advanced they want their car's hybrid technology to be. Visit http://www.carsdirect.com to learn more about the many hybrid options that are available on the market today.