What you should know

Type: Four-door, front-wheel-drive compact hatchback. Engine (h.p.): 1.8-liter DOHC I-4 with electric motor (121 net). Transmission: Continuously variable (CVT).

Market position: Despite relatively cheap gas, the variety of hybrid vehicles of all stripes appears to be growing. Improvements in fuel economy and more attractive pricing should prove key to increasing hybrid popularity.

Points: Quirky looks shouldn’t detract too much from buyer interest

☛ Muchimproved EV operation is a huge bonus

☛ High-quality interior, with reasonable stowage capacity

☛ Suspension, steering, braking improvements add to driving enjoyment

☛ Attractive price, well equipped and impressive overall range make it hard to beat among hybrid competitors.

Active safety: Lane-departure warning (std.); active cruise control (std.); emergency braking (std.); pedestrian detection (std.). MPG (city/hwy): 55/53 (CVT). Base price (incl. destination): $28,000.