Top 5 fuel-sipping hybrid SUVs (photos)

EPA combined estimate: 21 mpg

The VW Group's large hybrid SUV siblings, the Cayenne and Touareg, combine all-wheel drive nimbleness, great cabin tech, and physics-bending acceleration with high efficiency. It's no wonder they're among our favorite large vehicles.

Check out the full review of the 2011 Volkswagen Touareg Hybrid.

EPA combined estimate: 21 mpg

If you thought that a hybrid SUV by Porsche making it into our Top 5 was odd, prepare to be stunned by General Motors' entry. The behemoth Cadillac Escalade Hybrid is the physical incarnation of excess and opulence, yet it manages to tie the VW Group's offerings with its hybrid drivetrain's 21 mpg combined.

Check out the full review of the 2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid.

EPA combined estimate: 22 mpg

Mercedes-Benz's midsize hybrid SUV beats out the likes of GM, VW, and the automaker's own diesel offerings with a respectable 22 mpg.

EPA combined estimate: 28 mpg

Sharing its basic underpinnings and technology with the Lexus RX, the Highlander Hybrid by Toyota represents an interesting blend of fuel efficiency and interior volume to move people and things in comfort.

Check out our review of the nonhybrid 2011 Toyota Highlander Limited for an idea of what to expect.

EPA combined estimate: 30 mpg

Speaking of the RX, Toyota/Lexus' other hybrid SUV comes in at No. 2 on our list, edging its sibling out with slightly better cabin comfort, infotainment tech, and--most importantly for this comparison--better fuel economy.

Check out the full review of the 2010 Lexus RX 450h.

EPA combined estimate: 32 mpg

The original Ford Escape Hybrid was the first hybrid SUV, as well as the first of the American hybrids. Now, in its second generation, the Escape Hybrid (along with its clones, the Mazda Tribute Hybrid and Mercury Mariner Hybrid) finds itself in the No. 1 spot.

Check out our full review of the 2009 Ford Escape Hybrid Limited.