A great article by Automobile magazine comparing the fuel economy of the current model hybrids, the Toyota Prius and Honda Insight, to a compact from over 20 years ago, the Honda CRX HF.
Adjusted to modern fuel economy testing standards, the CRX HF would reach 40 miles-per-gallon (mpg) in the city, 48 on the highway.
The Honda Insight, with the assistance of supplemental batteries, regenerative braking, and other technological wonders can only reach 40 mpg in the city and 43 on the highway.
Now, the Insight does offer creature comforts such as LCD screens, ABS, airbags, air-conditioning, power accessories, and seating for five, but isn't the whole point of hybrids to maximize fuel efficiency? The original Insight was great at this - small and minimalistic with two doors, but it returned around 60 mpg on a regular basis.
Sadly, much like the average American, cars tend to grow wider and heavier with each passing year, and hybrids are no exception. How much do you actually need in a car, anyways? The more accessories we pack into cars, the more they weigh which is counterproductive to the hypermiler. You don't see marathon runners wearing backpacks, do you?
However, the CRX HF is toast in an accident. With only the seatbelts and a prayer to protect the occupants, being run down by a pickup truck will not end favorably for the CRX. Modern cars offer multiple systems and technologies to protect the driver and passengers, and such is the trade-off. Until technologies improve, safety and comfort will come at the cost of mileage.
PS, after my first full tank of gas the MR2 earned 35 miles per gallon in mixed conditions (freeway, city traffic, stop-and-go, and some idling).
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