Is a hybrid car still the most ecologically friendly vehicle?

[longship]

11. Well, hybrids are expensive.

When I test drove a Prius, I was astounded by two things.

1. It was as quiet as a library, even at speed on a SoCal expressway in traffic. There was so little engine noise that I could hardly detect when the engine started and stopped. Next to no wind noise.

2. It is deceptively faster than you think. The constant velocity transmission slides between ratios so no shifting. I hit an on ramp and pushed the accelerator. By the time I got to the end of the ramp I was booking, and all in near silence.

If you're looking at the Ford, which I understand is a very good car, I recommend test driving it against a Prius.

Another thing, the Prius has a very long history which its reliability can be evaluated, including battery life. Whether such records can be extended to the Ford is uncertain, but certainly the technology is similar. But it sounds like you've already decided on a hybrid. But more info certainly can't hurt. They are damned expensive. IMHO, worth it if they're within reach.

Good luck. You may have to wait a while.