Actually, used Prius cars are available elsewhere in the world for lower prices. We in the states have so few of them (relative to the total number of used cars) in comparison, that it is hard (but not impossible) to find one for under $14K.

http://english.auto.vl.ru/auctions/s...r_to=2003&pg=2

So my guess is that now, with the right deal, a smart, diligent shopper could find a hybrid from under $14K in the USA.....

In fact, at cars.com, I just now searched and found 13 Civic Hybrids under $14,000 across the USA, and 4 Priuses...