Best hybrid cars
Hybrid cars complement gas engines with electric motors to improve gas mileage or to increase power through the use of a combined-propulsion system. Toyota and Honda are both major players in the hybrid space, but just about every other automaker is working on a hybrid model. We've picked our top hybrid cars based on great gas mileage and good performance.
2008 Lexus LS 600h
9.7 Spectacular (reviewed 6/15/07)
The 2008 Lexus LS 600h is a classy car with all the tech you could ask for, both under the hood and in the cabin. Its hybrid system gives it a better environmental pedigree than its luxury class competitors, and its driving performance is very good.
Read review of the 2008 Lexus LS 600h
2008 Mercury Mariner Hybrid
7.7 Very good (reviewed 5/16/07)
The 2008 Mercury Mariner Hybrid has the practical configuration of a small SUV, along with the low emissions and good fuel economy of a hybrid. Its cabin electronics are up-to-date, although not extraordinary.
Read review of the 2008 Mercury Mariner Hybrid
2007 Toyota Camry Hybrid
9.0 Spectacular (reviewed 5/30/06)
Easy on the eyes and the pocketbook, user- as well as ecofriendly, the Toyota Camry Hybrid is a fitting front-runner in the new generation of hybrid sedans.
Read review of the 2007 Toyota Camry Hybrid
2007 Lexus GS 450h
9.0 Spectacular (reviewed 8/3/06)
With more horsepower than most sports sedans, a hybrid engine, and a long list of tech features, the Lexus GS 450h is a consummate package of comfort, performance, and technology.
Read review of the 2007 Lexus GS 450h
2007 Nissan Altima Hybrid
8.4 Excellent (reviewed 6/20/07)
The 2007 Nissan Altima Hybrid is a stylish newcomer to the hybrid sedan market. It delivers a good balance between performance and economy, with some very swish cabin electronics, although these options will push the base price way up.
Read review of the 2007 Nissan Altima Hybrid
2007 Honda Civic Hybrid
7.8 Very good (reviewed 4/16/07)
Honda's reputation for practical economy is shown in the Civic Hybrid, well-built and simply designed to sip fuel. Interior tech options are usefully done, making this Honda a great commuter sedan.
Read review of the 2007 Honda Civic Hybrid
2007 Ford Escape Hybrid
6.7 Good (reviewed 10/9/06)
With this hybrid's price falling, it becomes a solid proposition in an all-around city driver. Sized well and easy to drive, the Escape Hybrid is a useful, advanced vehicle let down a bit by its amenities. Prospective buyers might want to wait for the next model year, which should see an overall upgrade.
Read review of the 2007 Ford Escape Hybrid
2006 Lexus RX 400h
7.6 Very good (reviewed 5/16/05)
As the first luxury SUV hybrid, the Lexus RX 400h makes a good first impression with its power, its fuel efficiency, and its technology.
Read review of the 2006 Lexus RX 400h
2005 Toyota Prius
7.1 Very good (reviewed 5/12/05)
Thanks to a seamless and sophisticated power system, the 2005 Toyota Prius delivers excellent gas mileage and comfort, making it the best hybrid on the road today.
Read review of the 2005 Toyota Prius