Say hybrid, and most people think of the best-selling gas-electric car in America, the Prius. With nearly one million sold in the United States, it's far and away the most popular hybrid. But with more than two dozen hybrids to choose from, it's not the only noteworthy model. Second place in the sales race is also an excellent choice.

Originally planned to be called Futura, Ford's Fusion has been leading the brand into the future. Introduced as an all-new model in 2006, the Fusion fit nicely between the compact Focus and the full-sized Five Hundred (now Taurus), winning converts from all over the market. When the vehicle was redesigned for the 2010 model year, the real excitement began.

Significantly restyled, the 2010 Fusion took top honors across the industry, including Motor Trend's Car of the Year award and being named one of Car and Driver's "Ten Best." Upgraded four- and six-cylinder engines and updates to the interior made the sedan truly competitive.

Yet it was the hybrid version that won the Fusion the North American Car of the Year award and set it ahead of the segment.

Ford engineered this hybrid system in house but found many of its technological ingredients to be