2006 Toyota Prius

I bought this car two years ago because of my concern about global warming and U.S. dependence on foreign oil. I did not expect to recoup the extra cost associated with hybrid technology. Of course, that was when gas cost $2/gallon. Now that it is $4 a gallon, I will actually make out better than if I had bought a cheaper non-hybrid car.

I am getting 55mpg for the kind of driving I do in warmer weather. In coder weather the mileage is closer to 48-50 mpg. The funny thing is that although this is so much better than most other cars, my feeling is that it isn't enough. I want more. If I could have a plug-in hybrid for a reasonable incremental cost, I would do it.

The quality built into this car is outstanding. As an engineer, I really appreciate the thought that has gone into every detail. I have not had a single problem in 40,000 miles besides one flat tire. I love this car.

Obviously, this is not a sports car, and it is not an SUV or a minivan. If your needs can be satisfied with a smaller car, this is a great choice.