Omni-Solution Rookie Hybrid 2009

The hybrid power train in the 2009 Toyota Camry Hybrid delivers excellent mileage and smooth operation. Navigation and a Bluetooth phone system are available.

Even with the premium stereo, audio output is poor. The only input for an MP3 player is an auxiliary audio jack. The navigation system lacks advanced features such as live traffic.

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.

The 2009 Ford Escape Hybrid Limited gets excellent city and highway fuel mileage. Standard Sync system is among the best voice-command systems around. Hard-drive-based navigation option features traffic data and other useful info supplied by Sirius...

The Escape's ponderous handling and high level of road and wind noise made highway driving a chore. Low-rolling resistance tires offer very little grip in wet conditions.

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.

With mileage well over 30 mpg and surprisingly good handling, the 2009 Nissan Altima Hybrid offers outstanding performance. Its available navigation system shows traffic.

The car's Bluetooth phone system is pretty basic and it lacks iPod integration.

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

Sync provides excellent voice command, along with MP3 player and cell phone integration in the 2009 Mercury Mariner Hybrid. Sirius Travel Link provides useful information about traffic and gas prices in the car. The hybrid system gives the car very low...

In our testing, fuel economy came in well under the EPA numbers. The audio system is only adequate.

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.