Every year, Consumer Reports releases its Top Picks which are comprised of the best all-around models in their categories, chosen from more than 260 vehicles tested. The three main areas of focus are: Road test, reliability, and safety. Fuel efficiency is also an important consideration when grading vehicles.
Winning its category for Best Green Car is the Toyota Prius. Per Consumer Reports:
The Prius still sets the standard for its blend of fuel efficiency, practicality, and affordability. The 44 overall mpg we measured in the hatchback is still the highest of any five-passenger, non-plug-in vehicle we’ve tested, and the 41 mpg of the new Prius V wagon easily tops its class. Moreover, its roomy interior, comfortable ride, and hatchback versatility make it easy to live with. Crash-test results are excellent. New electric cars have gotten the energy equivalent of higher mpg figures, but they’re less practical and affordable.
Toyota had an additional hybrid on the 2012 list. The Toyota Camry Hybrid won its category for Best Family Sedan.
With its 2012 redesign, the Camry Hybrid jumped to the top of the family-sedan category. One eye-opener for a car of this size is its impressive 38 mpg overall fuel economy, the best in class and even better than some smaller hybrids that lack the Camry’s performance. Other high points include a comfortable ride; a roomy, quiet cabin; fairly quick acceleration; and for 2012, a nicer interior and somewhat crisper handling (although the Camry is still no sports sedan).
Click here to see the full list.