Editors' Top Car tech
updated May 3, 2006
 
Wayne Cunningham, senior editor
  Hybrid cars complement gas engines with electric motors to get more power, subsequently achieving better mileage than their gas-only counterparts. Toyota and Honda are both major players in this space, but just about every other carmaker is working on a hybrid model. We've picked our top cars based on great gas mileage and good performance. -- Wayne Cunningham, senior editor
 

Editors' top car tech:

Techie cars | 

Hybrid cars

  |  Car GPS systems
 
Top hybrid cars
Car tech Editors' rating Price Summary
2006 Honda Civic Hybrid

7.4 out of 10 7.4
Very good
 
The cabin of the 2006 Honda Civic Hybrid catapults the driver into a cool future where voice commands operate navigation and audio, but the rackety engine and the less-than-smooth power train serve as a reminder that hybrid development is still in its early stages.
Specs: sedan , Hybrid , Hybrid
 

2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

7.3 out of 10 7.3
Very good
 
The Highlander Hybrid delivers efficient power and drives better than the average SUV, but it skimps on dashboard gadgets.
Specs: SUV , Base , Hybrid with CVT
 

2005 Honda Insight 2dr Hatchback (1.0L 3cyl Gas/Elec Hybrid 5M)

7.2 out of 10 7.2
Very good
 
The Honda Insight gets best-of-breed gas mileage, but its lack of digital comforts and cabin room constrains its uses.
Specs: hatchback , Base , Hybrid with CVT
 

2006 Lexus RX 400h Editors' Choice

7.6 out of 10 7.6
Very good
 
As the first luxury SUV hybrid, the Lexus RX 400h makes a good first impression with its power, its fuel efficiency, and its technology.
Specs: SUV , Base , Gas , Hybrid with CVT
 

2005 Toyota Prius

7.1 out of 10 7.1
Very good
 
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.
Specs: hatchback , Base , Hybrid with CVT