2015 Toyota Prius V vs. Its Competition

John Voelcker

The most direct competition for the 2015 Toyota Prius V wagon comes from the the Ford C-Max hybrid.

The Ford is slightly less spacious inside but more powerful, and it also has a nicer interior.

Both vehicles return 40 mpg or better in real-world use--never mind their EPA ratings--and will suit families with a desire for a smaller, more-efficient alternative to a minivan.

Other rivals come from within the Prius V's own showroom, either the less expensive and even more fuel-efficient Prius liftback, or for families who want all-wheel drive, the Toyota RAV4 that was redesigned last year.

The RAV4 is roomy inside but doesn't come close to thehybrids' fuel economy .

Another traditional small crossover is the Ford Escape, which no longer offers a hybrid model but is still relatively efficient and nicer inside than the RAV4 with better handling.

The upcoming Volkswagen Golf TDI SportWagen is the only mass-market wagon offered with a diesel option.

Its fuel economy is only slightly better than average around town, but on the highway it consistently outperforms its EPA ratings--and some drivers may prefer its freight-train torque to the hybrid howl under acceleration.