From what I know, Toyota is currently the best in this arena. I have friends with the Prius and Highlanders. They do not financially make sense over their gas counterparts, especially with gas going below 2.50. I've often heard $5 gal. is where they will shine. But we all know hybrids are not simply a mathematical equation like health care, they give their owners a lot of satisfaction, not to mention the ability to use the car pool lane as a SOV. The OP sounds like someone who would benefit from a hybrid purchase. GL!
p.s. I wonder if anyone has stuck a synergy drive emblem on their gas powered Highlander in Cali.?