2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid vs. 2010 Toyota Prius
In the world of hybrids, the Toyota Prius is king. However, Ford has launched a coup d'etat against Toyota's 2010 heir to the throne. This year marks the birth of a new American-born bloodline that has already begun to gain a groundswell of loyal followers. This new prince is the 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid.
The 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid has received numerous accolades, and is adding some much-welcomed variety to the pool of available hybrid vehicles. If you're looking for a hybrid, the 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid and 2010 Toyota Prius may be on your short list of contenders. Compare these two stellar hybrids and determine which one better suits your wants and needs.
Fuel Efficiency: Prius vs. Ford Fusion Hybrid
The 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid beats out almost every vehicle for the year with an EPA estimated 41 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway (39 mpg combined). However, when it comes to fuel efficiency, the Toyota Prius has no equal. The 2010 Toyota Prius musters 51 mpg in the city and 48 mpg on the highway (50 mpg combined). Furthermore, the EPA estimates that a 2010 Fusion Hybrid will emit an extra ton of CO2 emissions each year when compared to the 2010 Prius. So, if a small carbon footprint and fuel efficiency are your top priorities, the Toyota Prius remains your best bet.
Styling: Prius vs. Ford Fusion Hybrid
One of the reasons the 2010 Fusion Hybrid earns fewer mpg is simply because it is a larger vehicle. For passengers, the Fusion provides a much roomier interior. Additionally, the Ford hybrid delivers a much more traditional sedan body style when compared to the Prius hatchback. This more classic aesthetic may be a big selling point for you.
However, it should be noted that the tall rear of the 2010 Prius opens itself up to a much larger cargo storage capacity. Whether you're hauling groceries or something else, an available 40 cubic feet of maximum storage is by far more accommodating than the Fusion's 12 cubic feet of available space.
Performance: Prius vs. Ford Fusion Hybrid
With a larger engine and more than 50 additional horsepower, the 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid beats the Prius handily when it comes to power. The Fusion boasts a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that glides along at 191 horsepower. The 2010 Prius offers 134 horsepower via a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine. Additionally, the hybrid technology of the Fusion is smoother, making for a better, more comfortable drive all around. Certainly, the Toyota Prius is no slouch, but if you want hybrid fuel efficiency with the feel of a traditional car, the Fusion is more likely to please your needs.
Price: Prius vs. Ford Fusion Hybrid
With a base MSRP of $22,000, the Toyota Prius wins in the category of affordability. The Ford hybrid starts around $27,000. However, that extra five grand nets you a remarkable fit and finish, and the 2010 Fusion just feels like a more put-together car. Still, the Prius is exceptionally comfortable and doesn't feel cheap by any means. It also comes standard with more airbags than the pricier Fusion. To determine if the Ford Fusion Hybrid's higher price tag is worth it, a test drive may be in order.