These vehicles combine car-like handling and SUV-worthy cargo space.

In Pictures: 10 Best Crossovers Of 2009

When buyers once again return to dealer lots, they might be smart to spend on a crossover. These autos--built on a car platform with SUV-like traits--offer drivers car-like handling and high gas mileage but don't sacrifice space.

Three models from Toyota ( TM - news - people ) (two from its luxury line Lexus) and two from Ford Motor ( F - news - people ) exemplify the best the crossover segment has to offer. The $36,800 Lexus RX and $42,080 RX hybrid offer a combined 20 mpg and 25 mpg, respectively, while Ford's $28,550 Flex and $26,635 Edge each offer more than 260 horsepower and enough cargo space for any carpooling soccer mom.

To compile our list of the best crossovers of 2009, we evaluated base prices, fuel efficiency, safety ratings, horsepower and total cargo space (with seats folded flat when available) in an equally weighted system, with merit points awarded against the competition. Winners in each category received one point, runners-up received two points, etc. The cream of the crop are the 10 crossovers with the least amount of points--the cars with the lowest manufacturer's suggested retail price but the highest fuel efficiency, safety ratings, horsepower and interior space.