Toyota Prius c
- Starting MSRP: $18,950
- Engine specs: 1.5 liters, four cylinders
- Gas mileage:
- City - 53 mpg
- Highway - 46 mpg
This popular hybrid has one of the best estimated fuel economies of the entire list, and it has many safety features that are important to have in cars for commuting. The features, part of what Toyota calls its Star Safety System, helped the Prius c model earn a 2012 Top Safety Pick award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
Standard parts of the system include vehicle stability control, traction control, an antilock brake system, brake assist and electronic brake-force distribution, which help keep the car stable when the driver uses the brakes.
The Prius also comes equipped with an AM/FM CD player that has MP3 playback capability and four speakers, so riders can comfortably listen to their favorite audiobook or song on the way to the office.
Advanced Prius c models also have an option to install the Entune information system, which provides real-time data on traffic, weather, fuel prices, sports and stocks. The system includes the Bing search browser and Pandora Internet radio. It is a subscription-based service that's complimentary for three years.