There are two groups of people, those that love the look of the Toyota Prius and those that don't. Even for those who bought one it may have been for function over form. The Toyota Prius was one of the first widely available Hybrid cars. We have all heard the stories of dealerships not being able to keep up with demand and there are even some Prius owners who 'flipped' the car for a decent profit. However since 2001 we have seen a large increase in the availability of Hybrid cars to the market. With rising gas prices car manufacturers are seeing a large demand for Hybrid vehicles and not just from your weekday commuter. Today there are over 15 different models of Hybrid vehicles to choose from instead of going with the Toyota Prius.

Chevy Malibu Hybrid
The Malibu's MPG rating is 24 city and 32 highway, getting 399 miles on a tank. With a starting price of $24,545 it is about $4,000 more than the standard Malibu. If you are a Chevy fan but looking for a Hybrid this may be the car for you. However don't think you will get the same MPGs as a Prius; which has double the MPG rating in the city.

Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid
The Tahoe's MPG rating is 21 city and 22 highway, getting 463 miles on a tank. Those numbers aren't going to impress many but compared with a standard Tahoe; which has a MPG rating of 14 city and 19 highway, it is a step in the right direction. The Tahoe Hybird comes with a steep $50,490 price tag. That is almost $15,000 more than the standard baseline Tahoe. However the Tahoe Hybrid comes equipped with upgraded features like leather seats and touch screen navigation radio.

Ford Escape Hybrid
The Ford Escape 4WD MPG rating is 29 city and 27 highway, getting 378 miles on a tank.  The Ford Escape FWD MPG ratin is 34 city and 30 highway, getting 432 miles on a tank.   If Ford wants to see a bounce back in sales this is how it will happen.  They have to produce more fuel efficient vehicles.  The Ford Escape Hybrid is the perfect for the family looking for a mid-size SUV but doesn't want to give up the MPG.

Honda Civic Hybrid
The Honda Civic Hybrid MPG rating is 40 city and 45 highway, getting 465 miles on a tank.  This almost puts the Civic on par with the Prius.  Buying a Civic Hybrid as a commuter car would be perfect alternative to the Prius.  Not only do you get great gas mileage, but in my opinion, a better looking car.  You get all the great features of a Civic but in a Hybrid.  The prices between the two cars is similar as well.  The Honda Civic Hybrid starts at $22,600 and the Toyota Prius starts at $21,500.

Nissan Altima Hybrid
The Nissan Altima Hybrid MPG rating is 35 city and 33 highway, getting 612 miles on a tank.  What the Altima lacks in its MPG rating, compared to the Civic and Prius, it makes up for on how many miles it gets on a tank.  However, Nissan still has a little ways to go to catch the other two manufactures.  The only reason I can see getting a Altima Hybrid is if you are already a fan of Nissans.  The Alitam Hybrid is also priced higher than the others, starting at $25,480.

Saturn Vue Hybrid
The Saturn Vue Hybrid MPG rating is 25 city and 32 highway, getting 461 miles on a tank.  The Vue Hybrid has similar stats to that of the Escape Hybrid.  Deciding between the two is a matter of taste, Ford vs. Chevy (Saturn).  They both have the same starting price at $26,000.  This would be another perfect mid-size SUV for the family.  Saturn has stepped up their quality in recent years and is making great cars.

Toyota Camry Hybrid
The Toyota Camry Hybrid MPG rating is 33 city and 34 highway, getting 526 miles on a tank. This is one of the more interesting cars on list.  You get a great looking full-size sedan with great gas mileage.  Thy Camry Hybrid, $25,650, is a little more expensive than the standard model, $18,920.  However, if you are looking to upgrade your sedan and want to save money on gas this is a great buy.

Note
I did not cover all the 2008 Hybrid vehicles currently on the market.  For a full list of Hybrids you can visit www.fueleconomy.gov.

Lexus RX NO RESERVE ONE OWNER PREMIUM LUXURY AWD RX400H HYBRID NAVI CAMERA    US $20,301.00

Honda Accord Hybrid 2007 Honda Accord Hybrid Low Miles    US $10,000.00

Honda Civic NO RESERVE 2003 HYBRID SERVICE RECORDS NEW IMA BATTERY 45MPG    US $6,400.00