Alternatives to the 2010 Toyota Prius Hybrid

The Toyota Prius is without a doubt the most popular hybrid car on the roads these days. Nearly one million of the vehicles have been sold in America since the green car was introduced in 2000, making it by far the best-selling hybrid of all-time.

As the old saying goes: one million satisfied customers couldn't be wrong. Or can they?

The 2010 Toyota Prius returns with more room, improved agility and enhanced horsepower. It also improves on fuel efficiency, with an estimated combined mileage of 51 mpg. The closest competitor to this figure is the 2010 Honda Civic Hybrid, which serves up a combined fuel efficiency of 42 mpg.

So why, then would anyone want to skip over the 2010 Toyota Prius in favor of another hybrid? There are lots of reasons, actually. And though the Toyota Prius does plenty of things right, it's not the hybrid car for everyone. If you're considering buying a hybrid, here are some reasons why you shouldn't buy the 2010 Toyota Prius:

You're Main Selling Point Isn't Fuel Efficiency

Yes, all hybrid shoppers want a vehicle with good fuel efficiency (that's the whole point). However, fuel efficiency is only one of many vehicle features that factor into a purchase decision. Simply put, there are several hybrid vehicles that offer a complete package that is just as good (if not better) than the Toyota Prius.

For example, the general consensus is that the 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid and 2010 Mercury Milan Hybrid offer a more refined driving experience than the Prius. While improvements have been made over the 2009 Toyota Prius, the interior environment still may feel a little too "economical" for some. And if price is the most important factor to you, then the 2010 Honda Insight may be a better choice.

You Want a Sportier Feel

One of the few complaints routinely sighted about the Toyota Prius is a stodgy steering system. Toyota has addressed this complaint to some degree on the 2010 Prius, but the fact remains that there are sportier-feeling hybrids available from competitors. Most notably, is the 2010 Honda Civic Hybrid. With a more traditional body style, the Civic Hybrid invokes a completely different aesthetic than the Toyota Prius. Similarly, if the vehicle's large rear end makes you turn up your nose at the 2010 Prius, then the Toyota Camry hybrid may also be a better match for you.

You Want a Hybrid With Bells and Whistles

If you know what you want, and don't mind paying for it, then the 2010 Toyota Prius is likely to disappoint. While upgrade packages add a number of appealing features, the Prius simply can't compete with the healthy crop of luxury 2010 hybrids. For similar styling and performance to the Prius, consider the refined Lexus LS 600h. Crisp features include LED lighting, 4-zone automatic climate control and voice-activated GPS. Other notable luxury hybrids include the performance-tuned BMW 335d and the elegant Mercedes-Benz E350 BlueTec.

You Need More Cargo Space

Whether your cargo is a stack of lumber or a pack of kids, the 2010 Toyota Prius probably isn't the best hybrid option. Though the mid-sized Prius comfortably seats up to five passengers, there are several hybrid SUVs that would better suit your extra baggage. The 2010 Ford Escape Hybrid does an excellent job of balancing fuel efficiency with interior cabin space. The GMC Yukon Hybrid offers even more space, while keeping fuel efficiency above 20 mpg (which is good for its class). On the higher end, top 2010 hybrid luxury SUVs include the BMW X6 ActiveHybrid and Lexus RX 450h.