2008 Toyota Camry Hybrid

*Est. $25,350

Pros

Excellent mileage for class
Rides like standard midsize sedan
Proven reliability of Camry design

Cons

More expensive than non-hybrid family sedans
Limited trunk space

Our Analysis

We found the best (and most reliable) reviews of the Toyota Camry hybrid in Consumer Reports, ConsumerGuide.com and Edmunds.com, all of which rank and review cars and provide pertinent data. The Camry is also tested in separate reviews by Motor Trend magazine and Automobile.com.

Reviewers acknowledge that the Toyota Camry Hybrid doesn't get the very best gas mileage among hybrid cars, but they say it rides and feels more like a standard midsize sedan and less like a low-powered compromise. The hybrid Camry gets about 34 mpg in mixed driving (compared to about 26 mpg for the non-hybrid version), so it's still a fuel-sipper compared to others in its class. Testers say the Camry is predictable and pleasant to drive; its safety features and crash test ratings are good, and it includes a long list of standard features, as well as a flexible menu of options. Downsides include its high price compared to non-hybrid family cars and its reduced trunk space (because of the need to store the hybrid's battery). If you're looking for better gas mileage, the 2008 Toyota Prius (*est. $21,100) gets 46 mpg, but is a compact car rather than a mid-size family car.

Where To Buy

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2008 Toyota Camry Hybrid

Our Sources

1. ConsumerReports.orgDetails/Subscribe

Consumer Reports tests and rates dozens of cars and trucks for safety, reliability and performance; editors then pick a handful of models across various vehicle categories to recommend. The magazine also includes data from an annual reader survey on reliability and overall owner satisfaction.

Review: Guide to Today's Hybrid Cars & SUVs, Editors of Consumer Reports, Dec. 2007

2. ConsumerGuide.com

Consumer Guide editors rates vehicles for a number of criteria, including comfort and performance, and also consider crash-test data and warranty information. The Toyota Camry Hybrid, Nissan Altima Hybrid and Saturn Aura Green Line earn "recommended" designations in the hybrid class.

Review: The Consumer Guide to 2008 Hybrid Vehicles, Tom Appel, Mar. 2008

3. Edmunds.com

Edmunds.com has created a class especially for hybrid vehicles; all hybrid models are listed here, along with editorial reviews and customer ratings. Editors say the Camry Hybrid is roomy and easy to live with, though trunk space is limited, and interior fit and finish is criticized.

Review: Top Recommended Hybrids, Editors of Edmunds.com

4. Motor Trend Details/Subscribe

Motor Trend analyzes the features, performance and mileage of these three midsized hybrid sedans. The Altima bests the Camry, but on a technicality: it's more economical to own because it still qualifies for a federal tax credit.

Review: Comparison: 2007 Nissan Altima Hybrid vs. 2007 Saturn Aura Green Line vs. 2007 Toyota Camry Hybrid, Kim Reynolds

5. Automobile.com

This comparative test includes three of the top hybrid sedans: the 2007 Nissan Altima Hybrid, the 2008 Saturn Aura Green Line and the 2007 Toyota Camry Hybrid. The Camry is said to sport a "futuristic" interior and instrumentation panels, and is the "smoothest and most refined hybrid" tested. The Camry Hybrid hasn't changed much since 2007, so this review still has some validity.

Review: 2007 Nissan Altima Hybrid vs. Saturn Aura Green Line vs. Toyota Camry Hybrid Comparison Test, Editors of Automobile.com, June 17, 2007

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