Game-Changers: 15 Top Hybrid Cars Redefining Efficiency and Driving Fun in 2025

As hybrid cars and electric vehicles continue their remarkable proliferation across the automotive landscape, a growing number of discerning shoppers are seriously considering fuel-saving technology as a viable and compelling alternative to traditional internal combustion-powered vehicles. The sheer variety of hybrid vehicles available has never been greater, offering a spectrum of choices that cater to diverse needs and preferences. However, for this in-depth exploration, we will hone our focus specifically on traditional cars from mainstream automakers, encompassing hybrid sedans, hatchbacks, wagons, and convertibles from non-luxury brands. This targeted approach allows us to spotlight the vehicles most accessible and relevant to a wide segment of the market seeking practical, efficient daily drivers.

It is important to clarify what this list does not cover. If your interest lies in the additional cargo space and robust practicality offered by a hybrid SUV or crossover, you’ll want to consult specialized lists for those categories. Similarly, those in search of a roomy luxury hybrid from prestigious brands such as Audi, BMW, Lexus, or Volvo, or the latest all-electric motor vehicles, will find dedicated analyses elsewhere. Our current journey is dedicated to hybrids that provide a crucial middle ground: those who are not quite ready to completely abandon the gasoline engine, yet are keenly interested in reducing their carbon footprint and embracing more sustainable mobility solutions without compromising on daily utility or driving enjoyment.

Hybrids, in their non-plug-in guise, offer the most gentle and accessible entry into the world of electrified vehicles. Their smaller batteries and integrated electric motors work in harmony with gasoline engines to significantly boost efficiency and, often, enhance performance, all without the need for external charging infrastructure. While hybrid versions of popular models typically command a slightly higher initial cost than their pure gasoline counterparts, they frequently arrive better equipped. This often translates to a richer suite of standard features and advanced safety technologies included in their new car price, even for basic midsize sedans. Furthermore, advanced technology, such as intuitive touchscreen infotainment systems and sophisticated adaptive cruise control, are increasingly common staples in hybrid models, providing an elevated ownership experience right from the start.

1. **Toyota Prius**When one considers hybrid vehicles, the Toyota Prius stands as an almost synonymous figure, a testament to its enduring legacy and widespread adoption. Now in its fifth generation, the Prius continues to set benchmarks for efficiency and practicality, maintaining its position as an undisputed economy king. It is available not only as a regular hybrid, which is our focus here, but also as a plug-in variant, catering to a broader range of electrification preferences. For the first time, buyers can also specify all-wheel drive, adding a layer of versatility and capability that further broadens its appeal across different climates and driving conditions.

The latest iteration of the Prius has notably transcended its historically utilitarian image, evolving into a vehicle that, surprisingly, delivers a high level of driver enjoyment. Show it a corner, and this new Prius genuinely responds with a composure and responsiveness that belies its fuel-sipping mission. This newfound dynamic prowess, combined with its class-leading efficiency, makes the Prius a truly compelling package for those who desire both frugality and an engaging driving experience. Its claimed combined 57 mpg stands as a remarkable achievement, underscoring its commitment to minimizing fuel consumption.

From a technical perspective, the Toyota Prius exemplifies hybrid engineering at its finest. The EPA fuel economy ratings are stellar: 57 mpg city, 56 mpg highway, and a combined 57 mpg. These figures are not just numbers; they represent tangible savings at the pump and a significant reduction in environmental impact. The Prius’s sophisticated hybrid powertrain seamlessly blends gasoline and electric power, optimizing energy usage across all driving scenarios, from stop-and-go city traffic to sustained highway cruising, ensuring maximum efficiency.

Starting at an accessible price point of $28,550 for the regular hybrid, the Prius represents exceptional value for money. This initial investment brings with it not only extraordinary fuel economy but also a host of standard features and Toyota’s renowned reliability. For those considering the plug-in hybrid variant, known as the Prius Prime, the price rises to $33,375, or $35,280 with all-wheel drive. However, for a straightforward, non-plug-in hybrid that prioritizes efficiency above all else, the standard Prius is a segment leader and an intelligent choice for environmentally conscious drivers seeking a dependable and enjoyable ride.

Car Model Information: 2025 Toyota Prius L
Name: Toyota Prius
Caption: Fifth generation Prius (XW60)
Manufacturer: Toyota
Production: December 1997 – present
ModelYears: 2001–present (US)
Class: ubl
BodyStyle: unbulleted list
Layout: unbulleted list
Sp: uk
Categories: 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles in need of updating
Summary: The Toyota Prius ( PREE-əss) is a compact/small family liftback (supermini/subcompact sedan until 2003) produced by Toyota. The Prius has a hybrid drivetrain, which combines an internal combustion engine and an electric motor. Initially offered as a four-door sedan, it has been produced only as a five-door liftback since 2003. The Prius was developed by Toyota to be the “car for the 21st century”; it was the first mass-produced hybrid vehicle, first going on sale in Japan in 1997 at all four Toyota Japan dealership chains, and subsequently introduced worldwide in 2000. In 2011, Toyota expanded the Prius family to include the Prius v, an MPV, and the Prius c, a subcompact hatchback. The production version of the Prius plug-in hybrid was released in 2012. The second generation of the plug-in variant, the Prius Prime, was released in the U.S. in November 2016. The Prius family totaled global cumulative sales of 6.1 million units in January 2017, representing 61% of the 10 million hybrids sold worldwide by Toyota since 1997. Toyota sells the Prius in over 90 markets, with Japan and the United States being its largest markets.

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Brand: Toyota Model: Prius
Price: $35,981 Mileage: 4,291 mi.

2. **Hyundai Elantra Hybrid**The Hyundai Elantra Hybrid emerges as a strong contender in the compact hybrid sedan segment, bringing a blend of eye-catching design, impressive efficiency, and a surprisingly engaging driving character. While its larger sibling, the Sonata, offers a more traditional midsize appeal, the Elantra carves out its own niche with a significantly more aggressive and sportier aesthetic. This bold styling instantly distinguishes it on the road, appealing to drivers who seek a vehicle that stands out from the crowd while delivering on its promise of fuel efficiency.

Underneath its sporty exterior, the Elantra Hybrid houses a powertrain engineered for efficiency. While its output of just 139 horsepower makes it less athletically inclined than some larger or more performance-oriented hybrids, its focus is firmly on economical operation. It requires almost nine seconds to accelerate from a standstill to 60 mph, which is a modest figure. However, a key differentiator and a source of driver enjoyment is its snappy double-clutch gearbox. This transmission offers a far more direct and engaging feel compared to the continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) often found in other hybrids, making the journey to 60 mph feel more exciting and connected.

The vehicle’s light weight and well-tuned chassis contribute significantly to its great handling characteristics. This makes the Elantra Hybrid not just a frugal commuter but also a surprisingly fun car to pilot through corners, offering a level of agility that might not be expected from a hybrid sedan. Its impressive combined EPA fuel economy rating of 54 mpg—achieved through 51 mpg city and 58 mpg highway—further cements its position as a highly efficient choice, balancing spirited driving with economic operation seamlessly.

With prices starting at $25,450, the Hyundai Elantra Hybrid presents a compelling value proposition. This makes it an attractive option for buyers who prioritize efficiency and a distinctive design, along with a more engaging transmission, without breaking the bank. It offers a fresh and modern take on the hybrid sedan, proving that fuel savings don’t have to come at the expense of style or a connected driving experience. The Elantra Hybrid is a testament to Hyundai’s ability to deliver innovative and desirable vehicles that meet the evolving demands of today’s drivers.

Car Model Information: 2019 Acura RDX Technology Package
Name: Hyundai Elantra/Avante
Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor Company
Aka: Hyundai Avante,Hyundai Lantra (1990–2000),Hyundai i30 Sedan (2020–present)
Production: 1990–present
Class: Compact car
Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout
Predecessor: Hyundai Stellar
Categories: 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All Wikipedia articles written in British English, All articles with bare URLs for citations
Summary: The Hyundai Elantra, also known as the Hyundai Avante, is a compact car produced by the South Korean manufacturer Hyundai since 1990. The Elantra was initially marketed as the Lantra in Australia and some European markets. In Australia, this was due to the similarly named Mitsubishi Magna Elante model; in Europe because of the Lotus Elan. The home market name Avante used from the second generation is not used in most export markets due to its similarity with Audi’s “Avant” designation, used for their station wagon models. The name was standardized as “Elantra” worldwide in 2001 (except in South Korea, Singapore and Russia).

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Brand: Hyundai Model: Elantra Hybrid
Price: $28,599 Mileage: 12,696 mi.

3. **Toyota Camry Hybrid**The Toyota Camry has long been a stalwart of the midsize sedan segment, revered for its reliability and practical appeal. However, the latest iteration of the Toyota Camry Hybrid truly elevates the model, imbuing it with a level of sophistication and refinement that makes it feel exceptionally luxurious—so much so that it could arguably deserve a Lexus badge. Beyond its enhanced cabin experience, this latest Camry Hybrid also boasts the sportiest looks and driving dynamics ever seen in a Camry, demonstrating Toyota’s commitment to combining efficiency with a more engaging and aesthetically pleasing package. Crucially, it achieves this without sacrificing its core strength of efficiency, delivering an impressive 51 mpg combined rating.

The heart of the Camry Hybrid’s performance and efficiency lies in its advanced powertrain. It features a robust 2.5-liter four-cylinder naturally aspirated engine, which works in seamless conjunction with an electric motor. This harmonious pairing generates a substantial combined output of up to 232 horsepower, providing ample power for confident acceleration and highway cruising. This elevated horsepower figure ensures that the Camry Hybrid feels responsive and capable in various driving situations, offering more than just economical transportation; it delivers genuine driving satisfaction.

For drivers seeking enhanced capability, particularly in challenging weather conditions, the option of adding all-wheel drive is a significant advantage. This feature, available for an additional $1,525 on the base model, further broadens the Camry Hybrid’s appeal, making it a versatile choice for a wider range of climates and preferences. The starting price for the base model is $29,895, which, considering its blend of luxury, performance, and outstanding efficiency, represents considerable value within the competitive midsize sedan market.

In terms of fuel economy, the Camry Hybrid shines brightly, cementing its status as a highly efficient family sedan. The EPA figures are impressive, with 53 mpg in the city, 50 mpg on the highway, and an excellent combined rating of 51 mpg. These numbers underscore the meticulous engineering that has gone into optimizing every aspect of its hybrid system for maximum efficiency. The Toyota Camry Hybrid therefore presents itself as a remarkably well-rounded vehicle, masterfully blending a luxurious ambiance, sporty driving characteristics, and class-leading fuel economy, making it an undeniable top choice for discerning buyers in 2025.” , “_words_section1”: “1675

Continuing our deep dive into the hybrid vehicles that are reshaping the automotive landscape in 2025, we now turn our attention to three more compelling models. These vehicles masterfully blend the crucial elements of efficiency, engaging driving dynamics, and everyday practicality, catering to a diverse range of buyers who demand more from their daily drivers without compromising on their commitment to a greener future. From established stalwarts to redesigned contenders, these hybrids prove that fuel-saving technology can go hand-in-hand with an enjoyable and refined ownership experience, making the transition to electrified mobility smoother and more appealing than ever.

Car Model Information: 2019 Acura RDX Technology Package
Name: Toyota Camry
Caption: 2018 Toyota Camry Ascent (ASV70, Australia)
Manufacturer: Toyota
Production: March 1982 – present
Aka: ubl
Class: ubl
Layout: ubl
Predecessor: ubl
Successor: Toyota Avensis (T250)
Categories: 1990s cars, 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles
Summary: The Toyota Camry is an automobile sold internationally by the Japanese auto manufacturer Toyota since 1982, spanning multiple generations. Originally compact in size (narrow-body), the Camry has grown since the 1990s to fit the mid-size classification (wide-body)—although the two widths co-existed in that decade. Since the release of the wide-bodied versions, Camry has been extolled by Toyota as the firm’s second “world car” after the Corolla. As of 2022, the Camry is positioned above the Corolla and below the Avalon or Crown in several markets. In Japan, the Camry was once exclusive to Toyota Corolla Store retail dealerships. Narrow-body cars also spawned a rebadged sibling in Japan, the Toyota Vista—also introduced in 1982 and sold at Toyota Vista Store locations. Diesel fuel versions have previously retailed at Toyota Diesel Store. The Vista Ardeo was a wagon version of the Vista V50.

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Brand: Toyota Model: Camry Hybrid
Price: $28,599 Mileage: 12,696 mi.

4. **Honda Accord Hybrid**Honda has long held an esteemed position in the automotive world, and the Accord, in particular, has earned a reputation for being an automotive benchmark, consistently delivering a blend of reliability, comfort, and driving enjoyment. The latest Accord in hybrid trim continues this proud legacy, not merely meeting expectations but exceeding them to stand as one of the finest iterations of the model ever produced. It’s a vehicle that brilliantly combines spirited driving fun with an impressive degree of smoothness and refinement, making every journey, whether a quick commute or a long road trip, a truly pleasurable experience.

Under the hood, the Accord Hybrid leverages a sophisticated powertrain featuring two electric motors—one acting as a generator and the other as a traction motor—working in concert to produce a robust 204 horsepower. This intelligent dual-motor system delivers seamless power delivery, contributing to the Accord’s engaging driving character while simultaneously optimizing for efficiency. The result is a car that feels both responsive and composed, offering ample acceleration for confident overtakes and a settled, comfortable ride on diverse road surfaces. It represents a harmonious marriage of traditional Honda engineering prowess with cutting-edge hybrid technology.

When it comes to fuel economy, the Accord Hybrid truly shines, reinforcing its position as a class leader. It boasts an impressive EPA rating of 51 mpg in the city and 48 mpg on the highway, culminating in a combined efficiency figure that significantly contributes to reducing both fuel costs and environmental impact. While real-world driving conditions might see figures vary slightly, typically around 10 percent lower depending on driving style and conditions, the overall package remains undeniably economical and efficient for a midsize sedan of its caliber, offering substantial savings at the pump over the long term.

Beyond its mechanical excellence, the Honda Accord Hybrid also presents a strong value proposition, particularly with its comprehensive standard equipment. The EX-L Hybrid trim, for instance, starts at $36,090, including the destination charge, and comes packed with features that enhance both comfort and convenience. This thoughtful inclusion of advanced technology and safety features ensures that buyers are not just investing in superior fuel economy but also in a well-appointed, modern vehicle that provides a premium ownership experience right from the outset. It’s a testament to Honda’s commitment to delivering a complete package.

The Accord Hybrid is more than just a means of transport; it’s a compelling statement that practicality and environmental consciousness can coexist with genuine driving pleasure. Its balanced approach to performance, efficiency, and refinement makes it an outstanding all-rounder for families and individuals alike, appealing to those who desire a sophisticated yet sensible vehicle. This blend of attributes firmly cements its place as a game-changer in the hybrid sedan market, setting a high bar for its competitors and offering a truly compelling choice for the discerning buyer.

Car Model Information: 2022 Honda Accord Sport 1.5T
Name: Honda Accord
Caption: 2023 Honda Accord LX (US)
Alt: Front three-quarter view of a front-engined four-door car.
Manufacturer: Honda
Production: 1976–present
Class: Compact car
BodyStyle: hatchback
Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout
Predecessor: Honda 1300
Categories: 1980s cars, 1990s cars, 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars
Summary: The Honda Accord, also known as the Honda Inspire in Japan and China for certain generations, is a series of automobiles manufactured by Honda since 1976, best known for its four-door sedan variant, which has been one of the best-selling cars in the United States since 1989. The Accord nameplate has been applied to a variety of vehicles worldwide, including coupes, station wagons, hatchbacks and a Honda Crosstour crossover.

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Brand: Honda Model: Accord
Price: $25,961 Mileage: 50,981 mi.

Honda Civic: The Spirited Sidekick — “0 Honda Accord Hybrid (2017)” by Benespit is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

5. **Honda Civic Hybrid**Taking the celebrated attributes of its larger sibling and packaging them into a more compact and accessible form, the Honda Civic Hybrid emerges as another significant player in the 2025 hybrid lineup. It masterfully translates the Accord’s winning formula of efficiency and dynamic capability into a vehicle that perfectly suits urban environments and drivers seeking a nimble yet economical ride. Its distinction as Motor1’s best car of 2024 is a clear indicator of its widespread appeal and the substantial impact it has made in the fiercely competitive automotive market.

While it might not possess the same level of high-speed refinement as the larger Accord, the Civic Hybrid compensates with an infectious eagerness and agility that makes navigating winding roads an absolute joy. This car is engineered for fun, delivering a responsive and connected driving experience through corners that belies its fuel-sipping mission. It truly embodies the spirit of the Civic, which has always been celebrated for its engaging chassis and driver-centric design, now enhanced with the benefits of advanced hybrid technology to offer an even more compelling proposition.

One of the standout features of the Civic Hybrid is its versatility, offering buyers the choice between a classic sedan body style and a more practical hatchback. This flexibility ensures that the Civic Hybrid can cater to a broader array of lifestyles and needs, whether one prioritizes the sleek lines of a sedan or the added cargo utility of a hatchback. Each variant maintains the core hybrid strengths, allowing drivers to select the form factor that best complements their daily requirements without compromising on efficiency or driving enjoyment.

In terms of fuel efficiency, the Civic Hybrid stands as a paragon of economy in its segment. The sedan body style achieves a marginally superior 49 mpg combined rating, a testament to its optimized aerodynamic profile and intelligent hybrid powertrain. This impressive figure translates directly into tangible savings at the fuel pump, making it an incredibly cost-effective option for daily commuting and longer journeys. For those considering the hatchback, it still delivers exceptional economy, solidifying the Civic Hybrid’s position as a smart choice for eco-conscious drivers.

Accessibility and value are also key pillars of the Civic Hybrid’s appeal. With a starting price of $29,845 for the Sport sedan trim and $30,495 for the slightly more expensive hatchback, it positions itself as an incredibly attractive option within the hybrid market. These price points make advanced hybrid technology and Honda’s renowned reliability accessible to a wider audience, reaffirming that top-tier efficiency and an engaging driving experience don’t necessarily come with a premium price tag. The Civic Hybrid is, unequivocally, a smart and enjoyable entry into the world of electrified mobility.

Car Model Information: 2019 Acura RDX Technology Package
Caption: 2024 Honda Civic liftback
Manufacturer: Honda
Aka: ubl
Production: 1972–present
Class: Subcompact car
BodyStyle: fastback,Sedan (automobile)
Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout,Front-engine, four-wheel-drive layout
Predecessor: Honda N600,Honda Z600
Categories: 1980s cars, 1990s cars, 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars
Summary: The Honda Civic is a series of automobiles manufactured by Honda since 1972. As of 2023, the Civic is positioned between the Honda Fit/City and Honda Accord in Honda’s global passenger car line-up. It is one of the best-selling automobiles in history, with over 27 million units sold through 2021. The first-generation Civic was introduced in July 1972 as a two-door fastback sedan, followed by a three-door hatchback that September. With a 1,169 cc transverse engine and front-wheel drive, the car provided good interior space despite its small overall dimensions. Initially gaining a reputation for being fuel-efficient, reliable and environmentally friendly, later iterations have become known for performance and sportiness, especially the Civic Si, SiR, and Type R versions. It is currently in its eleventh generation, which has been produced since 2021. The Civic has often been rebadged for international markets, and it served as the basis for the Honda CR-X, the Honda CR-X del Sol, the Concerto, the first generation Prelude, the Civic Shuttle (which later became the Orthia) and the CR-V (which in turn was used as the basis for the Honda FR-V).

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Brand: Honda Model: Civic Hybrid
Price: $28,599 Mileage: 12,696 mi.

6. **Hyundai Sonata Hybrid**The Hyundai Sonata Hybrid enters 2025 with a striking and undeniably bold redesign, signaling a fresh and assertive presence in the midsize sedan segment. Its new aesthetic, particularly the distinctive two-tier front fascia featuring sleek daytime running lights positioned at the top and the main light clusters subtly integrated lower down, ensures that this car stands out with a modern and sophisticated appeal. This design evolution injects a significant dose of personality and contemporary flair into a segment often characterized by more conservative styling, making the Sonata Hybrid a visually captivating choice.

Beneath its revamped exterior lies a highly competent and efficient hybrid powertrain, meticulously engineered to deliver both robust performance and impressive fuel economy. The system combines a 2.0-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine with an electric motor, collectively generating a healthy 192 horsepower. This harmonious integration ensures smooth and responsive acceleration, making the Sonata Hybrid a confident performer in various driving scenarios, from navigating city streets to cruising on the open highway. It perfectly balances the demands of everyday driving with the advantages of hybrid technology.

The focus on efficiency is evident in the Sonata Hybrid’s remarkable EPA combined rating of 47 mpg. This figure is truly impressive for a midsize sedan of its size and capability, demonstrating Hyundai’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of fuel-saving innovation. Such strong fuel economy not only translates into considerable savings for owners over time but also underscores the vehicle’s reduced environmental footprint, aligning perfectly with the growing demand for more sustainable transportation solutions without sacrificing comfort or interior space.

Furthermore, the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid offers this compelling package at a reasonably attractive price point, starting at $31,250. This competitive pricing strategy ensures that buyers seeking a stylish, efficient, and well-equipped midsize hybrid sedan receive excellent value for their investment. The Sonata Hybrid presents itself as a thoughtfully designed vehicle that blends distinctive aesthetics, strong performance, and outstanding economy, making it a serious contender for those who appreciate innovative design and intelligent engineering in their next car. It truly is a testament to Hyundai’s continued ascent in the automotive landscape.

As we conclude our journey through the game-changing hybrid cars of 2025, it’s abundantly clear that the landscape of sustainable mobility is richer and more exciting than ever for buyers who prefer a traditional car over an SUV and desire electrification without the need for plugging in. The models we’ve explored—from Toyota’s enduring efficiency kings to Honda’s dynamic all-rounders and Hyundai’s stylish innovators—each present a unique blend of frugality, engaging driving dynamics, and everyday practicality. They are engineered to cater to diverse preferences, proving that environmental consciousness doesn’t mean compromising on performance, comfort, or value.

Car Model Information: 2019 Acura RDX Technology Package
Name: Hyundai Sonata
Caption: 2024 Hyundai Sonata SEL (US)
Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor Company
Production: 1985–present
Class: Mid-size car
BodyStyle: sedan (automobile)
Layout: ubl
Predecessor: Hyundai Stellar
Categories: 1990s cars, 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All Wikipedia articles written in American English
Summary: The Hyundai Sonata is a mid-size car that has been manufactured by Hyundai since 1985. The first generation Sonata, which was introduced in 1985, was a facelifted version of the Hyundai Stellar with an engine upgrade, and was withdrawn from the market in two years due to poor customer reaction. While the nameplate was originally only sold in South Korea, the second generation of 1988 was widely exported. The Sonata is currently manufactured in South Korea, China, and Pakistan. It was named after the musical term, sonata.

Get more information about: Hyundai Sonata

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Brand: Hyundai Model: Sonata Hybrid
Price: $28,599 Mileage: 12,696 mi.

These vehicles epitomize the current zenith of non-plug-in hybrid technology from mainstream manufacturers. They come laden with advanced tech, impressive safety features, and a commitment to a refined ownership experience, all wrapped in a package that makes the transition to electrified driving seamless and enjoyable. The choice ultimately comes down to personal priorities—whether it’s outright efficiency, dynamic sportiness, luxurious comfort, or an unbeatable blend of all three. We encourage you to experience these exceptional machines firsthand; a test drive is the only way to truly discover which of these hybrid pioneers resonates most with your driving style and budget. The future of driving, blending gasoline and electric power with such finesse, is truly here, offering a path forward that is both responsible and exhilarating.