Best Hybrid Cars

2007 Toyota Prius (Around $22,175 to $23,070)

Best compact hybrid car, hatchback. Despite changes in the way the EPA reports mileage, the Toyota Prius remains the undisputed miles-per-gallon champ. The compact Prius hatchback uses an electric motor assisted by a gasoline engine. At city-driving speeds, the electric motor operates alone, and the gas engine kicks in at higher speeds. Real-world fuel mileage tests say you can reasonably expect about 46 mpg in mixed driving from the Prius. In addition to better gas mileage, reviews say the Toyota Prius hybrid car has a roomier interior than the competing Honda Civic Hybrid. The hatchback-only Prius has a distinctive look that many reviews say makes it stand out from the economy-car pack.


2007 Toyota Camry Hybrid (Around $26,860)

Best mid-sized hybrid sedan. Critics say the hybrid version of the Toyota Camry is the best choice for those who want a roomier hybrid car than the Toyota Prius, and it easily outclasses the hybrid version of the Honda Accord in reviews. The Toyota Camry Hybrid looks pretty much like any other Camry, with everything that makes a Camry a family favorite (except for cargo space that’s reduced because of the battery pack). Fuel economy is good, but it doesn’t match that of the Prius, despite using the same hybrid system. In addition, some reviewers say their test cars fell short of the revised EPA estimates 34 mpg in mixed driving.


2007 Saturn Aura Green Line Hybrid (Around $22,370)

Budget hybrid family car. Despite using a relatively simple hybrid technology, the Saturn Aura Green Line gets 25 percent better fuel economy than the car’s gas-only version. Although that means it does not get the same good gas mileage as some of its competitors, such as the Toyota Camry Hybrid, it is considerably cheaper, and according to some reviews, it’s more fun to drive. Because the premium over the gas version of the Aura is so low, it’s easier to come out ahead with this car, especially while federal tax rebates are still available.


2007 Saturn Vue Green Line Hybrid (Around $23,495)

Best compact hybrid SUV. Saturn offers its low priced hybrid SUV with the mantra of "go green without going broke." At just over $23,000, with a federal tax credit and incentives from GM (when available), some buyers may end up paying only a few hundred dollars more for a hybrid Vue than a standard gas-powered Vue. Its simple hybrid system doesn't get the most impressive hybrid gas mileage (about 32 mpg in mixed driving), but reviews say it handles much like any standard small SUV, and it has done very well in government crash tests. Some might like the fact that the Vue Green Line can be safely flat towed behind a motor home.


2007 Toyota Highlander Hybrid (Around $32,490 to $36,550)

Largest hybrid SUV. The Toyota Highlander Hybrid SUV is the largest current hybrid vehicle, with seating for seven. Most critics are surprised by the level of performance that’s delivered using Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive system. Gas mileage is improved over gas versions of the Highlander, but some real-world tests have failed to match even the EPA’s revised estimates of 27 mpg/city, 25 mpg/highway or 26 mpg combined. Some reviewers have also noted that given the Highlander Hybrid’s premium over standard versions, recouping the price difference through fuel savings will likely be difficult unless you plan to hold onto the vehicle for a fairly long time. The Highlander did very well in IIHS crash testing.