2009 Toyota Camry Hybrid

Pros: With over 40K miles on the odometer, our Camry Hybrid has a lifetime 39.2 MPG.
* Driven hard, with lots of jackrabbit starts, it achieves 32 MPG
* Driven gently and going with the flow of traffic, I regularly push 50 MPG in heavy DC Beltway traffic

Cons: * Pillow-soft ride
* Modest loss in trunk space
* Peculiar stereo controls

Summary: This car is fantastic for sleeping passengers and babies as it's whisper quiet. The Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) combined with all-electric mode below 43 mph keep engine noise consistent.

I love the keyless ignition, you need only have the keys in your pocket. The driver door and trunk also open without pulling your keys out, great when you've got full hands at the store.

The Down-side:

The Camry is a Toyota, and has Toyota driving characteristics (minimized driving experience, not unlike driving a pillow). If you prefer more sports car like responsiveness, definitely take the Ford Fusion Hybrid for a spin.

With the Camry Hybrid, you do lose a bit of trunk space. It's still cavernous and an easy trade for double the city MPG though.

The Camry Hybrid is a wonderful commuter car, I would definitely recommend it.

If you're interested in this car, you should definitely check out the brand-new Ford Fusion Hybrid as well.