This being the maiden voyage of the new 2007 Toyota Camry Hybrid, prognosticators predict an overwhelming success for the latest environmentally-minded Toyota. Early results from test drives indicate that although bigger and more heavily equipped than Prius, Camry Hybrid, with Hybrid Synergy Drive (HSD) technology is equipped to match the challenge.

Standing toe to toe with other 4-door sedans, the Camry Hybrid hauls 5 passengers in spacious comfort. As one might expect, technological innovation extends beyond the space under the hood, with standard features like a powerful audio system, a system for playing back MP3s from CDs or external memory, no-hands calling, and the ubiquitous navigation system.

The 2007 Toyota Camry Hybrid offers standard right and left temperature selection, fog-proof side-view mirrors, a quick-start system for automatic startup and entry, plus the convenience of finger-tip controls on the tiller. A little longer and wider than last year's Camry, the 2007 Camry Hybrid boasts a bottomless trunk, a blessing for the family used to packing everything for a trip.

Handling in the 2007 Camry Hybrid is adequate, the extra weight of the storage battery being felt in the corners and at acceleration. As one moves forward from a stop, the 45 hp electric motor is in full command. At about 10mph or so, the 158 hp, 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine offers its assistance. To stop, regenerative braking system uses that energy to help charge the battery. The 2007 Toyota Camry Hybrid doesn't disappoint when it comes to fuel economy, with numbers like 43mpg city and 37mpg highway. The sweet smell of success is in the wind once again for the new hybrid on the block, the 2007 Camry.