The Toyota Prius hybrid is the latest generation of the car that accelerated the whole hybrid craze back during its initial introduction in Japan in 1997. The Prius 2009 is everything an intermediate sedan can and should be: powerful, responsive, accommodating, excellent fuel-efficient and clean burning. This sleek, steely mid-size is renowned for its extraordinary fuel efficiency - 4. The Prius is also certified as a super ultra low emission vehicle so, while maximizing your distance, you're minimizing your emissions. The Toyota Prius, the first and most successful real hybrid car.