Top 5 fuel-sipping hybrids (photos)

EPA combined estimate: 37 mpg

Dealing with the Honda CR-Z was an exercise in managing expectations. This is a car that dances precariously between the worlds of performance compacts and thrifty fuel sippers. However, there's no denying the numbers. The CR-Z's combined 37 mpg when equipped with the CVT pushes it to the No. 4 spot.

Check out the full review of the Honda CR-Z.

EPA combined estimate: 39 mpg

The Ford Fusion Hybrid (also known as the Mercury Milan Hybrid and the Lincoln MKZ Hybrid) is easily one of our favorite fuel-sipping sedans. Whether we're talking about its smooth hybrid power train or advanced cabin technology, we've usually only got good things to say.

Check out the full review of the Ford Fusion Hybrid.

EPA combined estimate: 41 mpg

Despite being larger than the CR-Z, Honda's more-conventional hybrids are able to eke a few more miles out of a gallon thanks to their more conservative tuning. So should you go Insight or Civic? That depends on which of these evenly matched cars you'd rather be seen behind the wheel of.

Check out the full review of the Honda Insight.

EPA combined estimate: 42 mpg

Lexus' newest and most efficient new vehicle is a little hatchback powered by Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive. The CT 200h features a sporty image that's aimed squarely at the Audi A3 TDI. It may not be as much of a hoot to drive, but around town the Lexus is decidedly more efficient.

Take a video look at the Lexus CT 200h.

EPA combined estimate: 50 mpg

What did you expect to see at the top of this list? The Toyota Prius, though not the first to the U.S. market, is easily the king of the hybrids. With Toyota planning on bringing larger and smaller variants of the Prius, you can expect to see many more Prii on this list in years to come.

Check out the full review of the Toyota Prius.

EPA combined estimate: 37 to 93 mpg

Many of you will wonder where the Chevrolet Volt fits into this lineup. Never has the adage "Your mileage may vary" factored more into the estimated fuel economy of a vehicle. Depending on the number of miles you drive per day beyond the 40-mile EV range, the Volt could end up at the top or the bottom of this list.

Check out the full review of the Chevrolet Volt.

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