Best 2014 Hybrids for the Money

CHICAGO--April 14, 2014: Cars.com has named its editors' picks for the best hybrid cars for the money. Experts looked at hybrids of all shapes and sizes to determine which offer shoppers the most bang for their buck in each of the different segments.

"Gas prices remain historically high, and one of the most successful ways that drivers have adapted to this is by embracing hybrid technology," said Joe Wiesenfelder, Cars.com's Executive Editor. "It is important for shoppers to understand the payoff, or lack thereof that hybrids can offer. Not every hybrid model saves money in the long run because high sticker prices can sometimes offset savings at the pump."

Cars.com experts compiled the list based on an efficiency-cost rating, taking the EPA's combined fuel mileage rating divided by the base price of the car. A high mpg rating and low price creates a high efficiency-cost rating. "The ultimate goal of this list is the help shoppers pay the least for the most mileage," said Wiesenfelder.

"Shoppers often assume that a hybrid means a compact car," said Wiesenfelder. "People looking for luxury cars or even large family haulers can now find hybrid options too. Automakers have caught on and realize that there is demand for hybrids that can accommodate drivers with a wide array of capacity needs and budgets."