I’m currently the proud owner of a Toyota Prius (2004 model). Had it a couple of years and don’t have a single bad word to say about it. The fuel efficiency is fantastic (typically half, to a third of my co-workers’ non-hybrid vehicles), all the features are there (cruise control, climate control, etc) and the number of compromises I have to make seem to be exactly zero.
Whats not to love? 
At purchase time, there were few options in the “environmentally friendly” space (is that an oxymoron when it comes to cars?). But a few months later, the Honda Civic hybrid became available. When the specs came out, I was still happy with my decision. The main factor was that the Civic’s fuel economy was noticeably worse (a number of small, non-hybrids do better, from what I can tell).
Well, its a new year, and Honda have brought out a new Honda Civic Hybrid. The styling looks great, they’ve increased the power, and electric-engine capability, and it seems to have more of a nod to fuel efficiency (in particular it can now, like the Prius, run on electric power alone at low speeds).
I came across the following review comparing the new Civic Hybrid to the current Prius, which might be of interest to people looking into Hybrids (or current Prius owners who want to check out the next generation of hybrids!):
http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/Drives/Comparos/articleId=108445
Non-US people (like me) should be aware that this is a US review, so some details may vary between what they’re reviewing and what is available to you. Also note that the Prius they use for comparison is 2004, but apparently the 2004 model is virtually identical to 2005.
In short, the review says that the Honda Civic is greatly improved, but that the Prius retains its edge. Its close, and the review goes on to say that the Civic may be better for certain people (especially those doing a lot of highway driving) – so, when it comes time to look at upgrading, I’ll certainly give the Civic a test drive.
In summary, still feel great about my original Prius purchase decision! 
And, if such things interest you, I’d really recommend checking out the review. Even if you’re not that interested in the upshot of the comparison, it’s educational to see the current state of hybrids, and what can differentiate one from the other.
Hi,
I disagree with your review and comparison between Prius and Honda Civic Hybrid. I test drove boththese vehicles beforei decided to buy Honda Civic Hybrid 2005. Yes, Toyota Prius 2004/2005 was a little more fuel efficient than Honda civic Hybrid 2005, and yes Prius was a little more powerful. But, when i drove Prius it felt as if i was not in a conventional car. And add to that the cost of the Prius was $7,000 more than the Civic not to mention the wait of 3 to 4 months upon order. And when it comes ot dirivng the Prius on a rough road, you can then see where the difference lies between Prius and Civic.
Now that the Honda Civic Hybrid 2006 is much more improved and a lot more elegant, still maintaining its driving feel of a conventional car, i believe its a much better buy than Prius than before, unless Toyota comes out with a improved version. But then again, thats just my opinion!! And yes the thing about Civic being better for longer drives, that holds true for its predecessor too (2005 model). Don’t know if Prius was fit for a long drive say between Melbourne to Sydney or something. I’ve found Civic Hybrid quite comfortable.
This vehicle is definitely a pleasure to have with you.
Don Lapre Williams
webmaster@linuxrocks.org
http://www.linuxrocks.org
Rahul,
I would have to agree, the 2005 model is a very standard looking car but delivers excellent fuel economy. I have a friend who has the Prius 2006 model and he hates the freeway driving as it just does not preform, and is very light on the steering. One down side to the Honda is the CVT gearbox, Honda just removed and replaced mine, (2005 Hybrid) under warranty. It seems Honda are still having major problems with the CVT box.
Just some more info for you to digest. :O)