CAMPBELL, Calif. (BusinessWire EON) February 23, 2007 --    "The EPA's new gas mileage ratings update a 24-year-old model for measuring fuel economy and have been anticipated for some time," said James Bell, publisher of IntelliChoice.com. "We strongly support the new ratings, which will help consumers by estimating miles-per-gallon based on real-world driving conditions. The bottom line is that hybrids still provide the highest fuel economy when measured against respective vehicles in their class. According to the EPA, on average, there will be a 10 percent decrease on most vehicles."

Bell emphasized that a vehicle's overall value should be taken into account when considering a purchase and fuel economy is just one factor. IntelliChoice.com, which offers value rankings for all makes and models, calculates vehicle value based on repair, maintenance, resale value, insurance costs and government fees, in addition to fuel costs.

IntelliChoice.com's recently announced Best Overall Value of the Year awards for model-year 2007 recognized several hybrid vehicles for their overall value, including the Toyota Prius, which was ranked as the best car value under $23,000, and the Ford Escape Hybrid, which was ranked as the best SUV under $28,000.

"We have been saying for some time that fuel economy is just one of the many appealing factors for hybrids," said Bell. "Our value rankings take into account their many other strengths, such as resale value and high levels of quality."

In-depth information about hybrid, alternative fuel and standard cars, SUVs and trucks can be found at www.IntelliChoice.com.

About IntelliChoice.com

Part of PRIMEDIA's Enthusiast Media, IntelliChoice.com is the market leader in automotive ownership cost and value analysis. Founded in 1986, IntelliChoice.com is committed to empowering consumers to make better purchase decisions by providing independent and essential automotive information and tools. Through the IntelliChoice.com web site (www.intellichoice.com), consumers can get the help they need to research, compare, configure and price vehicles. The site also connects buyers to the buying alternatives of their choice, including vehicle manufacturers and online buying services.