Description: Hybrid Gas-Electric Mid-Size Sedan
Base MSRP Range: $21,725
Invoice Price Range: $20,006
Where built: Japan

Toyota's hybrid gas-electric sedan ranks among the most aerodynamic production vehicles on the market. It fits in the mid-size class with generous space for five in a comfortable cabin.

And Prius contains Toyota's high-voltage and high-powered Hybrid Synergy Drive (HSD) powertrain that runs on a thrifty 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine or a battery-powered electric motor. The HSD controls all energy produced by the two plants and applies it to turn the front wheels through a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The system achieves high fuel economy figures for the class of a Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (SULEV). A dashboard video screen illustrates energy management with icons representing the gas engine, electric motor, drive wheels and battery.

Advanced air bags and a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) apply to 2006 editions of Prius, with options for leather upholstery and a reverse-view camera plus MP3-capable audio gear.