Ford Fusion Hybrid vs Toyota Prius

If you are in the market for a hybrid vehicle, there has never been a better time to buy. Although a few years ago you may have had only one or two options, the popularity of hybrid vehicles has motivated manufacturers to put out hybrid versions of their most popular models. Two of the top models to look at include the 2014 Toyota Prius and the 2014 Ford Fusion Hybrid.

While some would say that a hybrid is a hybrid, there are distinct differences between these vehicles that may affect your purchase decision. Take a closer look and get the best car for your money.

2014 Toyota Prius

 

The Prius is the original hybrid, but reviewers are not kind to the first car to market. Nobody will ever accuse the Prius of being a racecar, but critics generally concede that it has enough power to make you feel that you are driving a traditional sedan. Transition between gas and electric power was an issue in earlier models, but 2014 seems to have made this a thing of the past. One thing that everyone has to agree on is that Prius is a big winner when it comes to fuel economy, even when compared to other hybrids. Its 51 mpg highway and 48 mpg in city places it among the most efficient vehicles in the industry. 

Critics of the Prius note its poor handling and brakes as their biggest concerns. It isn't all that fun to drive and represents a trade-off between its superior fuel economy and its lackluster power and handling. While it offers some of the most popular standard features, such as a six-speaker sound system and a 6.1 inch touch screen display, it leaves too many of its best toys as optional features that can drive up the sticker price. This contributes to the Prius' unfortunate reputation for being overpriced and barely ranks it in the top 10 for affordability.

2014 Ford Fusion Hybrid

 

The 2014 Ford Fusion is a critical darling that compares well to the Prius in terms of delivering a superior driving experience. Its 2.0 liter 4 cylinder engine delivers more power than the 1.8 liter version that comes with the Prius, and drivers generally applaud its responsive handling and braking. The Fusion enjoys popularity among reviewers because it does a lot of little things well. It provides consistent 47 mpg fuel economy as well as a variety of safety features including standard post-crash alert system and inflatable rear seat belts.   

Critics note that while the Fusion is eclipsed by the fuel economy of the Prius, it makes up for it by being a better-looking and more stylish car that is much more fun to drive. It is packed with standard features ranging from automatic headlights and climate control to a voice activated "MyFord" system. Many of its optional features are not available for the Prius, such as rear view cameras and blind spot monitoring. It is lauded as a great family vehicle because of its bevy of safety features and spacious interior. It has earned a 5 star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and US News rated it as the #1 best hybrid in terms of affordability.

When you do your homework and take a closer look at how these two vehicles stack up, it is clear that the 2014 Ford Fusion is a better car for your money. If you live in southern Pennsylvania and want more information about the Fusion Hybrid, please visit your Mechanicsburg Ford dealership and check out their inventory of hybrid vehicles in stock.