In 2008 I bought my first hybrid—a used Toyota Prius. I drove more than 400 miles a week for my job, so I welcomed its 43 mpg overall fuel economy. I also loved its geeky charm and rock-solid ...

Minivans are the sweatpants of the automotive world: unfashionable but very practical. Throw in a hybrid powertrain to keep the fuel bills down, and they can become even more satisfying to own.