The Province

Which hybrid fits your lifestyle?

THERE ARE PLENTY OF REASONS TO CHOOSE A HYBRID AND TOYOTA HAS ONE THAT’S RIGHT FOR YOU

- POSTMEDIA CONTENT WORKS KAY MILLER

Where once hybrids were limited to one or two models in a manufactur­er’s lineup, today there is a hybrid to match every lifestyle. Toyota alone offers six, from subcompact city hopper to roughand-ready sport utility vehicle – all of which use around 50 per cent less fuel, require less maintenanc­e and hold value better than their gaspowered counterpar­ts (as evidenced by higher average resale prices in sources the Canadian Black Book). Read on to learn which one is right for you. 1. Prius (from $29,030). This is the one that started it all. First released in 2000, the Prius has maintained its status as the best-selling hybrid on the market, offering a balance of utility and performanc­e that’s great for solo commuters, families and road trippers alike. This is also Toyota’s most fuel-efficient car bar none, sipping just 4.5 L of fuel per 100 km on average. As with Toyota’s other hybrids, the Prius owes its industry-leading fuel economy to its regenerati­ve braking system, which captures and stores friction energy in an onboard battery, as well as its continuous­ly variable transmissi­on (CVT), which maximizes engine efficiency. 2. Prius c (from $23,815). This is the smaller, nimbler subcompact hatchback version of the Prius, perfect for those who spend time driving and parking on city streets. And while it may be smaller, you still get the excellent utility that comes with a hatchback, with enough space for a run to Ikea or the ski hill.

3. Prius v (from $30,830). This familyfrie­ndly wagon with 67 cubic feet of interior space stretches out the standard Prius to create a roomy interior with 34.3 cubic feet of cargo space that families will appreciate (think moms packing kids and gear off to hockey practice). It’s like a minivan for those who’d rather not drive a minivan – or pay the steeper fuel costs the average minivan incurs.

4. Camry Hybrid (from $31,610). A plush mid-size sedan with a highend fit and finish, the Camry is a hybrid for drivers who don’t want to feel like they’re driving a hybrid. Seating five comfortabl­y, it’s a great family vehicle, or a commuter car for business people who need a luxury feel in their daily drive.

5. RAV4 Hybrid (from $36,365). This spry compact crossover SUV is a top choice for drivers who seek onand off-road adventures. Valueseeke­rs should also take note: the base hybrid model (like several of Toyota’s hybrids) comes standard with features not found on the base gas model, such as dual zone automatic climate control, All-Wheel Drive, power windows, a smart key system, push-button start, a vehicle proximity notificati­on system and more. For comparable options in a gas RAV4, you’d have to upgrade to the XLE (from $32,515) or SE model (from $37,985).

6. Highlander Hybrid (from $51,895). This powerful mid-size crossover SUV drives like a car, but seats up to eight and can take on any terrain, with available all-wheel drive and 140 cubic feet of cargo space for kids, gear, dogs – whatever you’re hauling. Plus, hitch up a trailer for 1,587.6 kg of towing capacity.

 ?? SUPPLIED ?? The RAV4 Hybrid compact crossover SUV is a top choice for drivers who seek on- and off-road adventures.
SUPPLIED The RAV4 Hybrid compact crossover SUV is a top choice for drivers who seek on- and off-road adventures.

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