For drivers who log a lot of miles, gas is a huge expense and no car works quite as hard to minimize that cost as Toyota's Prius hybrid. Rated at 51 city/48 highway mpg, the Prius is the most efficient vehicle this side of an electric car. And if that's not enough for your inner gas scrooge, this bargain car's digital mileage display helps you tailor your driving habits to get even higher mileage.

But beyond the mileage, the base Toyota Prius, priced at $22,800, has features to recommend it as a daily driver. Frugal buyers probably won't opt for additional bells and whistles. Still, the Prius comes standard with alloy wheels, cruise control, a CD stereo, and power door locks and windows. The cockpit has room for four adults and the hybrid hatchback provides cargo flexibility when you need it.

When the time comes to sell or trade in the Prius, the savings continue. Kelley Blue Book says the 2010 Prius is the best hybrid for expected resale value.