Toyota Avalon Hybrid

Toyota's flagship sedan, the Avalon, is roomy, rides comfortably, and has easy-to-use controls, which make it a pleasant large car. The hybrid has a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that returned 42 mpg overall in our tests, which is impressive for such a large sedan. The uplevel 3.5-liter V6 engine and eight-speed automatic transmission deliver smooth and robust acceleration. Ride comfort is excellent; it is even plusher than in most Lexus models. The cabin is quiet and lavishly furnished, particularly with the Limited trim. Handling is responsive and secure, but the car's low stance hurts ease of access.

The Avalon Hybrid is an excellent vehicle overall, and we'd choose it over the regular V6 version. It has a spacious, comfortable, and well-equipped interior. The ride of the Hybrid on 17-inch wheels and tires is far better than that of the V6 version on 18-inch wheels. Handling is secure overall, but steering lacks feedback. The 200-hp, 2.5-liter four-cylinder and electric motor is teamed with a CVT, like in the Camry and Lexus ES hybrids. We tested an excellent 36 mpg overall.