2016 Toyota Prius V vs. Its Competition

John Voelcker

The 2016 Toyota Prius V hybrid wagon faces its most direct competitor in the Ford C-Max Hybrid, each vehicle offering a more efficient alternative to larger minivans.

The C-Max doesn't have as much interior space, and its fuel-economy ratings have been lowered twice to below those of the Prius V, but it's nicer inside, more powerful, and quieter on the road.

But the all-new Prius liftback coming in February may offer a compelling proposition too: It has more space inside and will likely offer an EPA rating around 55 mpg combined.

If you want all-wheel drive, your nearest choice is the Toyota RAV4, which offers a new hybrid model as of this year.

The Ford Escape, with a choice of EcoBoost engines, is a more traditional compact crossover, but its fuel economy is likely only about half that of the Prius V.

Finally, the VW Golf SportWagen is a traditional compact wagon with startling interior volume for people and cargo--but its TDI diesel versions aren't presently sold, so you'll be stuck with a turbocharged gasoline engine, and only average fuel-economy ratings.