I would say that the prius is more gas efficient than the HCHII both in HWY and City. My dad has the prius and I have the HCHII. He is getting around 51 mpg, I am getting around 44-46 (like 36 in the city). I might drive slightly faster than my dad, but I have a commute with less hills and plus I drive more conservatively (cruise to a halt instead of braking hard). But the civic has its advantages as mentioned. I prefer the seats to the prius's as well. It also looks "cooler" with the blue gadgets n stuff. Take a look at the TCH as well, that might be a better car for u.