Lexus ES Hybrid

Lexus hurt ride comfort and made the controls complex with the ES redesign, and that carries over to the new hybrid version. In tests the hybrid's 200-hp, 2.5-liter four-cylinder and electric drive system returned an impressive 36 mpg overall and 44 mpg on the highway. The ride is decent but not that plush, and it's worse with the optional 18-inch wheels. Handling is sound but unexceptional. Inside, the quiet cabin looks good at first, but cheap touches are apparent. The driver-interaction system is distracting and convoluted unless you skip the nav system. The hybrid's combination of size, luxury, and fuel economy makes it more appealing than the ES350, but a Camry hybrid provides much of the same for less money.