(Feb 07, 2008)
Wayne Cunningham
Senior Editor
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
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.
Price: $104,000.00 (check prices)
Review date: Jun 15, 2007
Spectacular
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2008 Mercury Mariner Hybrid
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.
Price: $26,955.00 (check prices)
Review date: May 16, 2007
Very good
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2007 Toyota Camry Hybrid
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.
Price: $26,200.00 (check prices)
Review date: May 30, 2006
Outstanding
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2007 Lexus GS 450h
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.
Price: $54,900.00 (check prices)
Review date: Aug 3, 2006
Outstanding
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2007 Nissan Altima Hybrid
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.
Price: $24,990.00 (check prices)
Review date: Jun 20, 2007
Excellent
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2007 Honda Civic Hybrid
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.
Price: $24,350.00 (check prices)
Review date: Apr 16, 2007
Very good
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2007 Ford Escape Hybrid
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.
Price: $25,655.00 (check prices)
Review date: Oct 9, 2006
Good
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2006 Lexus RX 400h
As the first luxury SUV hybrid, the Lexus RX 400h makes a good first impression with its power, its fuel efficiency, and its technology.
Price: Sorry, pricing not available
Review date: May 16, 2005
Very good
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2005 Toyota Prius
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.
Price: $21,815.00 (check prices)
Review date: May 12, 2005
Very good
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