Cheapest Hybrid Cars

Hybrid cars -- vehicles that rely on multiple fuel sources -- offer a promising means of limiting gasoline consumption in an age of dwindling resources. Unfortunately, while hybrid cars are more environmentally-friendly than traditional vehicles, they are typically more expensive. If you shop carefully, however, you can find a hybrid car that is not much more expensive than a traditional vehicle and in the long run save money at the gas pump.

Toyota Prius

The Toyota Prius became the first mass-produced hybrid card when it was released in 1997. Currently the most popular hybrid, the Prius is also the most fuel efficient car sold in the United States, according to a study released by the Environmental Protection Agency and United States Department of Energy. As of December 2010, the manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) for the Prius is $22,800.

Honda Insight Hybrid

Marketed as "a hybrid for everyone," the Honda Insight is prepped to topple the Prius as the cheapest hybrid. Ranked number one in hybrid comparison tests by Car and Driver, the Insight has received a host of other accolades. According to MyRide, not only does the Insight undercut the Prius by "several thousand dollars," it also "improves in places the Prius falls short, [such as] driver position, lower price and less hybrid-like driving dynamics." Similarly, Edmunds.com named the Insight as one of its top recommended hybrids for 2010, citing its "excellent fuel economy, seamless hybrid powertrain, and pleasant driving experience." As of December 2010, the Honda Insight retails for a suggested starting price of $18,200.

Honda Fit Hybrid

The Insight's biggest competitor for the position of cheapest hybrid comes from another Honda model. The Honda Fit Hybrid, set for release in the United States in 2011, has a starting price of around $17,000. In addition to its low price, the Fit boasts 40 mile per gallon fuel economy and interior comfort.

Honda Civic Hybrid

As of December 2010, the MSRP of the Honda Civic Hybrid is $22,600, making it more expensive than the Honda Fit, but still cheaper than most other hybrid vehicles. Though it is less powerful and smaller than the Prius, the Civic's sporty appearance has won praise, with Edmunds.com giving it 9.3 out of ten stars for overall performance. The car also offers an average of 42 miles per gallon fuel efficiency, which can be tracked on the car's computerized fuel efficiency tracking system.