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Best hybrid cars

(Apr 21, 2009)

Wayne Cunningham 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.

2010 Mercury Milan Hybrid

As a tech car, the 2010 Mercury Milan Hybrid hits all the right notes, providing comfortable and economical driving while offering an incredible array of convenience for the driver and passengers with its cabin tech.

Price: Sorry, pricing not available

Review date: Jun 9, 2009

  • 4h stars

      Overall score: 9.2 (4.5 stars)

Outstanding

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2010 Honda Insight EX

While the 2010 Honda Insight EX with navigation may not be as mileage-friendly as the Prius, it represents a much better value and is more fun to drive.

Price: Sorry, pricing not available

Review date: Feb 11, 2009

  • 4 stars

      Overall score: 8.1 (4.0 stars)

Excellent

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2009 Nissan Altima Hybrid

Although not the most modern rig for cabin comforts, the 2009 Nissan Altima Hybrid is economical and fun to drive.

Price: Sorry, pricing not available

Review date: Feb 19, 2009

  • 3h stars

      Overall score: 7.7 (3.5 stars)

Very good

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2009 Toyota Camry Hybrid

Although its cabin tech is behind the times, the 2009 Toyota Camry Hybrid provides an easy and comfortable driving experience while delivering excellent fuel economy and extremely low emissions.

Price: Sorry, pricing not available

Review date: Jun 4, 2009

  • 3h stars

      Overall score: 7.9 (3.5 stars)

Very good

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2009 Mercury Mariner Hybrid

Ford's cabin tech sets the 2009 Mercury Mariner Hybrid far ahead of the competition, with extremely convenient features, and the hybrid system allows for gas-free driving at low speeds in this small and practical SUV.

Price: Sorry, pricing not available

Review date: Nov 6, 2008

  • 3h stars

      Overall score: 7.6 (3.5 stars)

Very good

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2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid

The 2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid combines ostentatious luxury with an overt green theme, while offering seating for seven, cargo room, and fuel economy worthy of a V-6.

Price: Sorry, pricing not available

Review date: Feb 20, 2009

  • 4 stars

      Overall score: 8.0 (4.0 stars)

Excellent

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2009 Ford Escape Hybrid Limited

Urban dwellers will love the 2009 Ford Escape Hybrid Limited's great fuel economy and awesome Sync-based tech package, but freeway commuters will find its high-speed manners unsettling.

Price: Sorry, pricing not available

Review date: Apr 20, 2009

  • 3h stars

      Overall score: 7.2 (3.5 stars)

Very good

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2008 Toyota Prius

Although still a fuel economy champion, the 2008 Toyota Prius is about to be replaced by a new generation that should be better in every way. The car is a great commuter, but wait for the 2010 model.

Price: Sorry, pricing not available

Review date: Dec 15, 2008

  • 3h stars

      Overall score: 7.6 (3.5 stars)

Very good

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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: Sorry, pricing not available

Review date: Jun 15, 2007

  • 5 stars

      Overall score: 9.7 (5.0 stars)

Spectacular

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