5 Hybrids Good For Environment, Drivers

Are you in the market for a new or used vehicle that can save you money at the pump? And perhaps you also have a commitment to doing as little damage to the environment as possible.

One suggestion: Think about a hybrid vehicle. With a combination of a traditional gas engine and an electric motor, the cars, while often pricey, can save you money on gas in the long run. They are also better for the planet because they can increase gas mileage and offer reduced emissions.

Here are a number of diverse hybrid options — hopefully one will be perfect for you and the planet.

1). 2013 Toyota Prius Plug-in - New - AOL Autos Best Deal: 
$30,359 - $33,791

From AOL Autos: This front-wheel drive, five-door liftback delivers the same impressive fuel economy and low emissions as the standard Prius model, with the added benefit of extended electric vehicle (EV) driving. The Prius Plug-in is available in two trim levels: Prius Plug-in and Prius Plug-in Advanced. Both trim levels employ Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive, a hybrid powertrain technology that unites a 1.8-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder gasoline engine with a powerful electric drive motor to generate 134 combined horsepower. In addition, a 4.4 kWh lithium ion battery with onboard charger allows a range of up to 15 miles of true electric vehicle operation; a full charge using an external 240-volt AC outlet can take as little as 1.5 hours. Standard equipment includes 15-inch aluminum wheels, automatic climate control, heated front seats, passive entry/start, a touch-screen audio display and Bluetooth wireless connectivity/music streaming, along with HD/satellite radio, a USB port and voice-activated navigation. Standard safety technologies include anti-lock brakes with brake assist, vehicle stability and traction control systems and a rear backup camera. Hybrid-related components are backed by an 8 year/100,000 mile warranty.

Available at Toyota Motor Sales in West Caldwell.

2). 2013 Chevrolet Volt - New - $44,945

From Cars.com: This hatchback runs on both gasoline and electricity and features a 1.4-liter, 4 cylinder engine as well as front-wheel drive and an automatic transmission. Other amenities include 1st and 2nd row curtain head airbags, 4-wheel ABS Brakes, AM/FM/Satellite radio, anti-theft alarm system, air conditioning, cruise control and remote engine start. This car features a Lithium ion battery and a 9.3-gallon fuel tank. Fuel consumption for the city is 101 miles-per-gallon and 93 miles-per-gallon highway.

Available at Wigder Chevrolet in Livingston.

3). 2011 Lexus GS 450h - Used - $63,090

From AOL Autos: This four-door Lexus sedan comes in a sleek silver exterior, and is equiped with leather seats, moonroof, Mark Levinson sound system, navigation, Bluetooth, and a backup camera.

Available at Lexus of Route 10 in Whippany.

4). 2013 Nissan Leaf - New - $28,800-$34,840

From AOL Autos: The LEAF is powered by an 80kW electric motor and 24kWh lithium-ion battery pack, enabling it to travel approximately 100 miles on a charge. The LEAF doesn't sacrifice features for efficiency either, standard features include a navigation system, six-speaker audio system with CD/USB/AUX and satellite radio, Bluetooth phone system, Intelligent keyless entry, push button start, automatic climate control, 60/40 folding rear seats and cruise control. All the usual safety features are here as well, six airbags, active front head restraints, stability and traction control, security system and front belt pretensioners are all standard. LED head and tailights provide safe lighting as well as using less power than incandescent bulbs.

Available at Nissan-Datsun Repair Service in West Orange.

5). 2013 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid - New - AOL Autos Best Deal - 
$24,904 - $29,259

From AOL Autos: The Sonata Hybrid is powered by a 2.4-liter Atkinson Cycle four-cylinder engine and powerful electric motor that combine to produce 206-hp. The power is sent through a six-speed automatic transmission to the front wheels. Traction control, stability control, anti-lock brakes, anti-whiplash front head restraints and more, all combine to ensure occupant safety. The exterior features unique Hybrid only alloy wheels and chrome grille. Interior features include a power driver seat with lumbar, unique metal-grain trim, Supervision instrumentation and dual-zone automatic climate control.

For 2013, the Sonata Hybrid has a new Limited trim. Exclusive to the Limited trim includes 17" alloy wheels, leather interior, heated rear seats, and navigation with Infinity speakers, all standard. A panoramic sunroof is optional.

Available at Lynne's Nissan in Bloomfield.