That said, while GM beats it chest load about it advancements in hybrid technology … inreality – they have achieved very little not to mention there is a current recall in place for many GM hybrid vehicles because of leaking batteries which renders the hybrid system unservicable leaving the regular petrol motor operational only.

Truth be told … hybrids from Toyota, Lexus and Honda don't come anymore proven and have achieved remarkable results while others like GM have done very little but beat thier own chests.

Also … the Prius was ranked No.1 in the 2008 UK JD Powers Quality / Customer Satisfaction Survey fending of over 100 other models by scoring an impressive 901 / 1000 pts.

I believe the Next Generation Prius which will be more powerful yet more efficent and is due for release in 2009 to replace the now aging current model.

Volt – Questionable reliability, High Cost $40k, Not available till almost 2010, good 40mile elec. range, not sure about mpg's after 40mile range is used.

Prius – Reliable, much cheaper than $40k, Old model, Rather wait for new 2010 model.

Insight – Reliable, under $19k, 60mpg's, available in early 09,

Prius – The 2009 Prius is getting a little long in the tooth and if I were set on a Prius I would wait for the third generation model arriving in 2010.

Insight – If I had to purchase one of these 3 in 2009 the Insight would probably get my garage space. Honda has reported the starting MSRP will be below $19k and with average MPG around 60 it would take alot of free EV miles in the Volt to make up the almost $20,000 difference.

Also, one must strongly consider reliability. Both the Prius and Insight have proven technology and years of real world development where the Volt has only the EV1 to look back on.

My vote would go to the Insight.