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More Info » Hybrid Car and SUV Information
So, you know you don't want a gas-guzzling, beastly, dangerous, high polluting SUV... What's on the other end of the spectrum,
besides a bicycle? Take a look at the latest in hybrid technology available to the public below. We've provided overviews
of the top hybrids that run on gas & electric motors.
Toyota Prius
This midsize family sedan has a lot to offer. This $20,000 car is touted as the most fuel-efficient and earth-friendly sedan on the
market. It has great gas mileage, super low emissions, plenty of interior space, and the outstanding Toyota quality. However, it does
have less power than other sedans in the same class, complicated controls and features, and some have complained about the gas mileage
on the sticker being higher than the actual mpg.
Click here for Toyota Prius information, pricing and options
Toyota Highlander Hybrid
This Hybrid SUV is brand new to the market. Following the high build quality found on the original Toyota Highlander, the Hybrid model
fulfills most of the average SUV buyers' needs. This SUV has more power (in the high 200s) than other hybrids, which provides great
acceleration. Although it's still respectable, especially for an SUV, the gas mileage suffers a little and is in the 20s. The ride is
smooth and interior comfortable and constructed solidly and consists of easy-to-use controls. Some complaints found were in regards to
it's handling, noisy engine and hard-to-access rear seating.
Click here for Toyota Highlander Hybrid information, pricing and options
Lexus RX400h
Lexus, the Toyota offshoot, offers an SUV with no shortage of luxury amenities, including its leather-wrapped interior. This hybrid SUV
also offers horsepower in the high 200s with gas mileage in the high 20s. Like the Highlander, the acceleration is quick, but offers
a better ride quality and a more elegant cabin. Like any other Lexus model, you'll pay a premium. Unfortunately, that premium doesn't
pay for a third row of seats.
Click here for Lexus RX400h information, pricing and options
Honda Civic Hybrid
From the long line of high selling sedans called the Civic comes another hybrid to the market. Using technology found in the Insight
(see below), Honda has taken their hybrids a step further. Using a 1.3 liter engine supplying only 85hp, plus the 13hp electric motor,
the Civic hybrid obviously focuses more on fuel economy instead of its already mediocre 0-60 times. Honda's "Integrated Motor Assist"
system closely resembles that which has been available in the Toyota Prius. This systems enables the car to, in a sense, recycle energy
that is usually wasted when the gas is released or brakes engaged.
Click here for Honda Civic Hybrid information, pricing and options
Honda Accord Hybrid
From one of the best selling family sedan models comes the Accord hybrid, with its spacious interior, high build quality, comfortable
ride and respectable crash test scores. Honda had already added their IMA technology to their four-cylinder Civic hybrid, and then
decided to try it out on their V6 model Accord. So for those wanting fuel economy in the high 30s and power in the mid 200hp range,
there's the Accord hybrid, which, like other Accords, is available in the various trim models (LX, EX & DX). The brakes and handling
could be improved, but new safety options are available for all trim models, including front and head airbags.
Click here for Honda Accord Hybrid information, pricing and options
Honda Insight
As one of the older hybrid sedans, the Insight may be slipping in the ranks due to better technologies and more power found in the
growing competition. However, this hybrid is still considered a leader by many due to its fuel economy and quality construction. It
still has great gas mileage, nimble handling, and plenty of standard amenities. Best of all, there's a level of exclusivity due to
the low numbers of Insights that have been produced. Members of that club experience the downsides such as quickly draining batteries,
small cargo area and suffering aerodynamics.
Click here for Honda Insight information, pricing and options
Ford Escape Hybrid
The first hybrid from the Big Three is the Ford Escape Hybrid SUV. It's one of the smaller models offered by Ford, but touted as a very
capable contender. This is due in part to the interior space and handling. Both the cargo area and cabin are spacious and comfortable.
Consider that tradeoff for the below average materials used inside the SUV. The 2006 model offers some changes, including an optional
power moonroof and side airbags.
Click here for Ford Escape Hybrid information, pricing and options
More Info at Edmunds.com &
GreenHybrid.com
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