The 2008 Toyota Camry Hybrid is a Dynamic Duo
Other than better fuel economy, people buy hybrids for a number of reasons. Reducing carbon dioxide emissions is one, and reducing America's dependence on imported oil is another. A third (and less valid) one is that morally superior feeling one gets from owning a car with a hybrid badge. The 2008 Toyota Camry Hybrid is a very impressive and complete sedan that now has the added benefit of an attractive price.
The hybrid version of the Camry offers a 2.4-liter, 4-cylinder gas engine which achieves 147 horsepower and can receive a maximum boost of 45 horsepower from the electric motor. Thus, the combined gas/electric system can temporarily produce horsepower of 192 horses, about the same as the V-6 engine of today’s Camry, but 4 cylinder fuel economy.
The continuously variable transmission powered Camry hybrid has been estimated by the EPA to achieve 43 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway. Still, these estimates are probably higher than real world mileage.