The development of hybrids has been motivated by an increased awareness of the harmful effects of fossil fuels that are currently used on 80 percent of vehicles currently on the road. Researchers have been hard at work trying to come up with environmentally friendly power trains for the best hybrid cars that use alternative fuel sources to minimize the over reliance on oil and its products. Hybrid cars or Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs) are characterized by the following five major components:

• A generator
• Electric motor
• A device used for power split
• A high performance/capacity battery
• Internal combustion engine

The main working principle behind the success of some of the best hybrid cars is the ingenious harnessing of benefits associated with electric motors and gasoline engines. Advanced technological techniques and research has seen to it that the benefits of electric motors and gasoline engines are properly harnessed to achieve varying objectives such as increased power, enhanced fuel economy and additional power for auxiliary uses such as power tools, electronic devices et cetera.

A good number of hybrids like the Honda Civic hybrid and the Ford Fusion hybrid incorporate the following advanced technologies in their build.

Automatic start/shutoff- prevents energy wastage through idling where the system shuts off the car upon stopping and restarts it when you step on the accelerator.

Electric motor kicks in during specific drive situations such as hill climbing, overtaking and accelerating. According to the Department of Energy, the kicking in of the electric motor during these drive situations has enabled most hybrids to use smaller highly efficient engines. In some hybrid car makes, the electric motor is used 100 percent during low speed city driving where the internal combustion engine performs quite poorly.

Regenerative braking through the resistance of the electric motor on the drive train brings the hybrid car to a smooth stop. The energy thus dissipated from the car’s wheels during the breaking process is used to turn the electric motor which works just like a generator and consequently converting the accrued energy into electricity which is later used by the motor.

The Best Hybrid Cars As Ranked By The US Energy Efficiency And Renewable Energy (EERE)

The 2012 Toyota Prius

This is the best Toyota hybrid and car brand in the market today. It has a MRSP of $22,120 and an exceptional fuel economy. Its interior is highly space efficient and it offers a comfortable and quiet ride. The Prius five offers a vast array of high tech goodies at a much higher MRSP. Despite its impressive fuel economy, the driving position is fairly awkward and its gauge meters are overly clustered. The resulting horsepower of the car’s electric motor and 1.8L 4 cylinder engine is 134 and is transmitted through a continuously variable transmission (CVT) system. It achieves 60 mph from zero in 10.1 secs which is okay for a hybrid. According to the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) fuel economy statistics, the Prius hybrid returns 51 mpg during city driving and 48 mpg on the highway which is quite impressive. When combined, the 2012 Prius achieves 50 mpg.

2012 Lexus CT 200h

This Lexus hybrid is second best in terms of fuel consumption on this list of the best hybrid cars. It has a starting MRSP of $29,120. It is tops in its segment as concerns fuel economy. Its handling is quite engaging which is unlike hybrids and has a pretty attractive pricing. It boasts of superior ergonomics and a cabin which is driver friendly. On the negatives; some of the Lexus CT 200h controls are low grade while its acceleration is quite pokey. Its in cabin storage capacity is also quite wanting.

It has a 1.8L 4 cylinder engine that runs on gasoline coupled with an electric motor/generator. Its total hp output is 134 just like the Prius albeit with a specialized CVT system that powers the front wheels. It attains 60 mph from 0 in a leisurely 10.4 secs. Its fuel economy is quite stellar at 43 mpg in city roads, 40 mpg on the highway and a combined fuel economy of 42 mpg.

2012 Mercury Milan Hybrid FWD

The number three spot among the best hybrid cars is taken up by the 2012 Mercury Milan that has a MRSP of $28,345. It has a roomy interior and handles excellently. Its pricing is quite stiff nonetheless. Its 4 cylinder, 2.5L outputs 191 hp in conjunction with an electric motor. It achieves 60 mph down from zero in 8.7 secs and returns 41 mpg in the city, 36 mpg on the highways and 39 mpg when combined.

Best Hybrid Cars – Toyota Prius Video

Image Source – Toyota Prius Hybrid By Mariordo Mario Roberto Duran Ortiz (Own work) [CC-BY-SA-3.0 (www.creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)], via Wikimedia Commons
Image Source – Lexus CT 200 h By Lexus_CT_200h_Geneva.jpg: *Lexus_CT200h.jpg: David Villarreal Fernández derivative work: Altair78 (talk) derivative work: Altair78 (Lexus_CT_200h_Geneva.jpg) [CC-BY-SA-2.0 (www.creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0)], via Wikimedia Commons
Image Source – Mercury Milan Hybrid By IFCAR (Own work) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

If you covet the 2012 Ford Hybrid SUV, but you find the MSRP (Manufacturers Suggested Retail price) of $30,570 to be too steep, there is no reason to pout as you could instead opt for nice used Ford Hybrid SUV, which should cost considerably less. The Ford Escape debuted in 2005. Standard features included a power train 2.3L gasoline engine that is coupled to an electric motor to produce a combined horsepower of 155hp. The driving dynamics and size of this original iteration are almost similar to the current Ford Escape hybrid SUV model which debuted in 2008.

Currently, the 2012 Ford Escape Hybrid features a 2.5L 4 cylinder engine powered by gasoline and an electric motor. The electric motor is battery powered and it produces a combined hp output of 177 hp. It also boasts of a continuously variable transmission (CVT) system which ensures a seamless changeover between the electric and gas modes. All Wheel Drive (AWD) Ford Escape hybrids are equipped with an extra electric motor that drives the rear wheels for additional traction and acceleration.

A used Ford Escape SUV from the 2008 Ford Escape line makeover that is well maintained can easily return the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) stipulated fuel economy of 34 mpg during city driving, 31mpg on the highways, and a combined city-highway fuel economy of 32mpg. Buying a used Ford hybrid SUV is a smart idea since these vehicles do not hold their value well and so you would end up spending a fraction of what you would have spent on a new vehicle.

According to EPA, purchasing a used Ford Escape hybrid SUV, or any other car for that matter that is only a year old, can result in savings amounting to 20 or 30 percent of the original MSRP.

The Best Reasons For Buying Used Ford Hybrid SUV

• You get to save a considerable amount of money on must haves like insurance.
• There is a good potential of getting bigger and better bargains, if you are a smart and experienced used car buyer
• It is possible to find a second hand vehicle with a valid factory warranty.
• Vehicles bought from private parties usually have less stressful negotiation processes.

Used Ford Escape SUVs that were manufactured prior to 2008 usually have lower prices than those that were released into the market after the 2008 redesign process. This is because previous years Ford Escapes had ancient looking cabins and exterior styling. Post 2008 Ford Escape hybrid SUVs has fresher looking cabins and state of the art controls and ergonomics.

A used Ford hybrid SUV 2010 has the popular communications and sync entertainment interface, a system for parallel parking which debuted in 2010, stability control system and an electric compressor for running the A/C system even if the engine is shut off or idling. These are features that you will still find in the latest Ford hybrid SUV model. The used Ford Escape SUV will cost you $24,177 which is $6,393 less than the MSRP of the 2011 Ford Escape hybrid SUV at $30,570. A smart buyer stands to benefit from savings amounting to 20.9 percent of the current model’s MSRP.

Environment Protection Agency (EPA) advises used car buyers to look for certified used cars from their original manufacturers. A used hybrid SUV from Ford will come with the following benefits:

• All used Ford vehicles undergo rigorous and strict vetting as exhibited by their 169 point inspection program.
• Certified pre-owned Ford cars have a 3000 mile comprehensive limited warranty that lasts for 3 months and covers over 500 components and a 100,000 mile limited warranty for the power train that lasts for 6 years
• They also offer a 24 hr roadside assistance
• A report of the vehicle’s history
• Ownership cost

So now you know everything you need to go out and buy your own used Ford hybrid SUV.

Used Ford Hybrid SUV – Ford Escape Hybrid Review Video

Image Source Ford Escape Hybrid By IFCAR (Own work) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

One of the most interesting chapters in the history of American car manufacturing has been the introduction of the SUV to the world market. Invented at a time when American cars were losing market share everywhere, some say that SUVs saved the industry. At the same time, these big overbuilt cars have been greatly criticized for their inefficient fuel use among other things. Wherever your opinion might fall in the debate, it is undeniable that SUVs have become a staple of the car market here and abroad as well as an undeniable fixture in modern culture. Currently, the industry is deeply invested in finding the best gas mileage SUV. Manufacturers understand that while customers are deeply in love with the power, safety, and size of these vehicles, increasing gas prices are quickly causing high operating costs to outweigh the positives.

The 2012 SUV market is full of new additions that strive to strike a balance between power and cost effectiveness. While the ideal solution is still a few years off, several of these cars have a lot to offer.

Top Three Best Gas Mileage SUV Vehicles

Heading up our list this year is the Ford Escape Hybrid. After years of less than impressive innovation, Ford has taken a huge step forward with this SUV, getting the best mileage rating in its class: 34 mpg city and 31 mpg highway. Hybrid technology now allows one of the biggest cars on the road to get the mileage that compact cars were getting just a few years ago. New engine tuning techniques also come into play here, allowing Ford to squeeze 177 horsepower out of a 2.5 L 4-cylinder engine. While you won’t have the stump-pulling power of a Taurus, this SUV will easily get you and your extended family to the picnic on time and in style. Base price for the Escape Hybrid is $30,110, making it the best gas mileage SUV on the market this year. This car also gets excellent safety ratings.

Coming in second because of combined affordability and performance is the Hyundai Tucson GL. Hyundai has gained a reputation in recent years for competitive performance and reliability at very competitive prices, this year’s SUV offering is no exception. The Tucson lacks hybrid technology, contenting itself with a decent 23 mpg city and 31 mpg highway.

With a 2.0 L 4-cylinder engine and 165 horsepower, this SUV is comparable in power to the Ford Escape, though it is smaller and costs $10,000 less. This would be an economical choice for a family who want extra space and power without sacrificing maneuverability and a low profile for urban driving. Hyundai deserves kudos for designing this smaller SUV in a such a way that the interior feels large in accommodates cargo easily.

The Last SUV in our top three is probably the most fun to drive, and only stays out of the top spot because of it’s high sticker price. Starting at $43,935, the Lexus RX 450h is strictly upper class in both price and handling. Considering that it packs a powerful 3.5 L V6 engine unleashing 295 horsepower, this car gets an impressive 32 mpg city and 28 mpg highway thanks to hybrid technology. As usual, Lexus also offers excellent handling and the best design and materials inside and out. As well as being at the top with the best SUV gas mileage, this vehicle drives like a dream and has enough power for any situation.

Alongside several other promising SUVs this year, these cars are doing their part to keep big cars competitive in today’s economy. Hybrid technology and smart tuning mean that SUVs are now getting the same mileage that small cars were getting just a few years ago. More good news for consumers is that with offerings in all price ranges, there is certainly a best gas mileage SUV available that suits your needs as well as your bottom line.

Best Gas Mileage SUV – Lexus RX 450h Review Video

Image Source Hyundai Tucson By U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (safercar.gov) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons
Image Source Ford Escape By Bull-Doser (Own work.) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons
Image Source Lexus RX 450 By IFCAR (Own work) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

Fuel conscious consumers occupy every segment of the modern automotive market, and the hybrid pickup truck is designed with this consideration in mind. Traditional truck owners are not able to downsize their vehicle options for a smaller vehicle that would fit in the bed of their previously owned trucks. The hybrid pickup truck is a necessary option because they maintain the functional and practical capabilities of previous generations while offering the fuel economy and technologies of a new generation.

The 2011 Silverado Hybrid pickup is one such option designed to satisfy the consumers of this market. Featuring new technologies in the cab and under the hood, this Chevy hybrid truck offers solutions to fuel efficiency while maintaining usefulness. This new generation of Silverado also utilizes the latest advancements in technology, performance, and safety that Chevy buyers will appreciate.

Performance and Technology Of The Silverado Hybrid Pickup Truck

This hybrid pickup truck is able to stay connected while on the road by incorporating technologies such as on-board Wi-Fi internet, OnStar, and navigation radio. For the consumer who uses their truck for more than transportation, these new features will transform the Silverado into a mobile office, traveling internet research lab, and mobile media center. All of these features and more are operated from a touch-screen display or voice recognition. The Wi-Fi signal is capable of providing full internet service to multiple devices with up to a 150 radius around the truck. These features will be useful while on the job as well as when traveling with family, camping, or spending time at the lake or on the farm.

Under the hood, the technology is equally impressive as this is where the practical performance meets fuel economy. Powered by a 332 horsepower Vortec V8 engine, this Chevy hybrid truck provides up to 6100 lbs. of towing capacity and 1553 lbs. of payload capacity, while maintaining an estimated 20 miles per gallon fuel economy in the city and 23 on the highway. This is accomplished by Chevy’s two-mode technology that maximizes fuel economy by utilizing specific combinations of power sources for different driving conditions.

Two-Mode Technology

The 2 wheel drive 2011 Silverado hybrid pickup truck can operate using only electric power, only engine power, or a combination of both. This is a feature of mode one that is designed for low speed, light load conditions that would be typical for hauling materials in city traffic. For circumstances requiring additional power, Mode two can be activated that will combine electric assist with four-cylinder or eight-cylinder power. This allows the Chevy hybrid truck owner to shut down excessive fuel consumption when that additional power is unnecessary yet still have the access to it when needed.

Because of the features mentioned and many more, Kelley Blue Book Consumer Reviews gives the 2011 Silverado hybrid a 4.6 out of 5 ranking. Pulling the score down are ratings for value and driving. As a full-size truck, driving convenience is reduced. This is expected considering what can be expected from a vehicle of this size. Also, the innovations and combination of many new technologies comes with a high price. The Silverado is equipped with every available luxury that could reasonably be provided to this class of vehicle. This pushes the MSRP starting price to over $38,000.

Fuel conscious consumers now have a Chevy hybrid truck option, but it will come with a price. New technologies under the hood and inside the cab increase the price of the Silverado, while offering many new generation amenities. The 2WD 2011 Chevy Silverado is a hybrid pickup truck option that is designed to combine the practical and functional features of a traditional truck with the technologies and fuel economy of the next generation.

Hybrid Pickup Truck – Chevrolet Silverado Hybrid Review Video

Image Source Silverado Hybrid Pickup Truck By Bull-Doser (Own work) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

Looking for the best small SUV that is affordable yet provides the room and performance that you desire has become much harder as we get ready to turn another page on the calendar. Small SUVs are becoming a viable alternative to the behemoths that crowded our streets and highways just a few years ago. This class of vehicles is quickly becoming one of the biggest sellers in the worldwide market as they provide excellent fuel economy, better vision while driving, roomier passenger seating and more cargo storage than other small cars or station wagons. Typically the best small SUV to buy will seat five passengers with some models offering a small but serviceable third row seat that is difficult to get into and usually only suitable for small children.

Most offer either a lift gate rear entry or side opening door with the lift gate option being the most popular. Power and performance are predictable in all models as the base engine is a 4 cylinder size with some models offering an upgrade to 6 cylinders which significantly reduces the estimated fuel mileage, which for most models is from 24 mpg to 36 mpg on the average. Prices range between a low of just over $15,000 dollars to over $43,000 dollars based on the manufacturer. Taking into account the basics of these cars three models stand out in this class. The best small SUV for this class is actually one of these two models: the Audi Q5 or the Ford Escape. The reviews below should help you to decide on the best small SUV to buy for your particular situation.

Best Small SUV 2012: Two Vehicles that Fit any Lifestyle

Extremely stylish to look at and with a luxurious feel behind the wheel the Audi Q5 is the epitome of the best small SUV. It combines luxury, durability and performance into one complete package. This complete package does come with a price tag of approximately $35,200 for the basic package and $42,500 for the top of the line Premium S Line. The standard engine on this vehicle is a 2.0L I4-211 HP which has a standard 8 speed automatic transmission holds 5 people comfortably holds 27 gallons of fuel and will gets approximately 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.

Comfort in this vehicle has not been spared as the front seats have 12 controls for adjustment; it also includes a CD system with 10 speakers and the ability to use your MP3 player or to subscribe to satellite radio. There are individual climate controls for the front passengers and separate controls for the rear passenger compartment. If you can afford the price tag then this is the model for you.

A more affordable approach to the best small SUV search is the Ford Escape. The price tag on this vehicle comes in between $21,000 and $26,000 and comes standard with a 2.5L I4 171 HP engine, a 5 speed manual transmission, comfortable seating for 5, holds 17.5 gallons of fuel and gets 23 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. It has the widest wheelbase of any model in this class which allows it to offer more cargo and a roomier passenger cabin. With an eye toward safety, probably the most talked about feature of the Escape is the SYNC system that promotes hands free operation of the features that are most distracting to drivers.

This vehicle offers automatic parking and the MKey feature that allows parents to create limiting speeds for younger drivers as well as controlled stereo volume that might cause a problem for their children. The biggest problem with the interior of the Escape is that the rear seats do not fold but must be removed in order to use the entire rear space for cargo. Drum brakes do not provide the same smoothness as a disc brake system and the steering column does not adjust as much as most cars in this class. However, with the 5 speed transmission available this vehicle makes the most of its 171 horses and can tow up to 3500 pounds.

The small SUV in this class depends on your how deep your pockets are. For a more utilitarian workhorse we prefer the Ford Escape but if your driving habits have you on the road for much longer trips then the comfort and luxury of the Audi Q5 should be your choice. Overall there are approximately 10 models to choose from when searching for the best small SUV 2012, but these are two of the very best.

Best Small SUV – Audi Q5 Review Video

Image Source Audi Q5 By OSX (Own work) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons
Image Source Ford Escape By IFCAR (Own work) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

The old adage about never buying a car to save money on gas prices alone rings even truer with the hybrid SUV 2012 class. There is an impressive list of hybrid vehicles 2012 from all of the major manufacturers. With more than 20 current or concept model hybrid SUVs 2012 will be a marketing frenzy with billions of dollars spent attempting us to sell the public on the benefits of these vehicles. However, even the most affordable hybrid SUV is not cheap compared to its gas counterpart. Luxury manufacturers have seemingly poured more money into the hybrid SUV 2012 market than any other segment with Audi, Mercedes, Cadillac, BMW and Porsche offering at least one model and in the case of Audi, Mercedes and BMW they are each offering two or more models.

The hybrid SUV 2012 field includes vehicles that are a combination of gas-electric, diesels, plug-in hybrids and hydrogen SUV’s. Different models are available in different markets around the globe depending on how the manufacturers see the market for each one with California and Europe having the largest selection of vehicles from which consumers can choose. These fuel efficient bits of transportation history deliver between 21 mpg of fuel to a high of 120 miles per gallon for the Mitsubishi Px-MiEV which is a plug-in hybrid that is currently a concept car that is getting close to production. The most impressive feat of the hybrid SUV 2012 is that even the largest most luxurious vehicle in the class provides exceptional performance and still delivers more than 21 mpg in combined city and highway driving.

Most Affordable Hybrid SUV 2012

The most affordable hybrid SUV continues to be the Ford Escape Hybrid which carries a price tag starting at $30,000 and delivers 32 mpg in combined city and highway driving. It has a front wheel drive and an all-wheel drive option available. It delivers the equivalent acceleration of a 240 horsepower V-6 engine that goes from zero-to-60 mph under 10 seconds. Redesigned to add to the hybrid system, the brakes are smoother providing better control and stability. The Escape Hybrid offers a large number of options for the comfort and safety of its passengers including SYNC and MKey. Both of which will significantly reduce driver and young driver distractions. The Ford Escape is not a luxury vehicle and is not top of the class when it comes to handling, but it is an adequate and competent vehicle for moving your family about town and on the highway.

Most Purchased Hybrid SUV 2012

Probably the most purchased hybrid is the Toyota Highlander Hybrid which offers a combined fuel consumption of 28 mpg. The engine is a Base V6 with all-wheel drive and 4 doors. This was the first mid-size hybrid sold in the US and continues to be an excellent choice for a 7 passenger vehicle that can tow 3500 pounds and still get excellent fuel mileage. It has the most interior room for passengers and comes with a large number of storage compartments and safety features that will make you proud to own and show it off.

The 3.5L V6 engine delivers 231 horsepower and has two electric motors in the drive train, one in the rear and one in the front. The motor is started by a third independent electric motor. The continuously variable transmission is designed to make use of the various power sources to produce maximum efficiency. The Highlander is not best suited for off road travel or very harsh weather as it operates mainly in the front wheel drive option. For more aggressive driving situations the all-wheel drive version is much preferred.

Choosing a hybrid SUV 2012 from a list of vehicles will make it difficult. However, for affordability, design and resell value of the Toyota Highlander at approximately $38,000 provides a great choice to fill the needs of most families. Perhaps the real tipping point for this vehicle is the third row seating that is actually usable by human beings. Hybrid vehicles are here to stay and if you must choose, choose wisely on your needs and environmental concerns, not on potential savings on fuel consumption.

Hybrid SUV 2012 – Toyota Highlander Hybrid 2012 Review Video

Image Source Ford Escape Hybrid By IFCAR (Own work) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons
Image Source Toyota Highlander Hybrid By IFCAR (Own work) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

Hybrid cars are growing more popular by the day, with more vehicle manufacturers dedicating time, resources and creativity to develop fuel efficient vehicles for everyday use. Before buying your own hybrid, it is best to compare hybrid cars in order to identify the best model and fuel consumption for the vehicle.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) describes hybrid vehicles as those running on something other than gasoline or diesel fuel, and these alternative fuels include electricity, liquefied petroleum gas, compressed natural gas, ethanol and methanol. Hybrid vehicles can save up to 38% on fuel compared to gasoline vehicles, and can produce lesser carbon dioxide this maintain better air quality.

Fueleconomy.gov outlines how hybrid electric vehicles work, including regenerative braking, electric motor drive or assist, as well as the automatic start and shut off. These are the main mechanisms that set hybrid electric cars apart from most others. Do keep in mind that some hybrid cars do combine several alternative fuels for the best efficiency, and an electric powered vehicle is only one out of many available hybrids.

To find the best hybrid cars, Fueleconomy.gov provides a comprehensive list of hybrid cars, trucks and SUVs from various manufacturers. This can help you compare hybrid cars side by side, and according to their fuel type, transmission, mileage, cost of filling up the tank, and the average annual fuel cost. It also includes the annual greenhouse gas emissions for each vehicle, as well as details such as the passenger and luggage volumes and engine characteristics. It is one of the most comprehensive comparison of hybrid cars available today.

You could compare hybrid cars by year or model of the vehicle, starting from the year 2000 to 2012. An example of a side by side comparison can include the following 2007 models of hybrids: Honda Accord Hybrid, Honda Civic Hybrid, Saturn Aura Hybrid, Lexus GS and Nissan Altima Hybrid. Such a comparison will show that out of the 5 hybrid cars, the cheapest to fill up is the Honda Civic Hybrid at $35.65 for a full tank, while the Nissan Altima offers you the highest miles on a tank at 702 miles. If you want to buy a hybrid SUV you can do the same and compare hybrid SUV models.

Compare Hybrid Cars – Factors to Consider Before Buying A Hybrid Car

The FTC recommends that if you are looking to buy a hybrid car, it is important to understand 5 main factors to help you make the best decision. First, consider the type of fuel that your hybrid runs on, and how available the fuel is. If you opt for an electric car, ensure that there are recharging facilities available in your area. The same applies for hybrids that run on compressed natural gas or liquefied petroleum, so check whether there are filling stations near you.

Another important factor is the maintenance or operational costs of owning a hybrid car. This is where hybrid cars comparison becomes crucial as it will reveal how much it will cost to fuel the car, and how much mileage you can get for a full tank. You can therefore make a rough estimate of the annual cost of fueling the vehicle.

Thirdly, you should also check the performance of the hybrid car, especially how fast it starts when cold, its top speeds and other functions of the vehicle that will improve its convenience. In addition to this, the passenger capacity is also important since there are various designs of vehicles to suit individuals or family use.

Finally, do consider the long term energy security of the vehicle, as well as its tailpipe emissions. Energy security means identifying where the alternative fuels for your vehicle come from, while emissions means the environmental effects of driving the car. Keep these factors in mind when you compare hybrid cars to make the best decision.

Compare Hybrid Cars Video

Image Source Honda Civic Hybrid By 岩元剛 Tsuyoshi Iwamoto (投稿者本人撮影・著作) [GFDL (www.gnu.org/copyleft/fdl.html) or CC-BY-3.0 (www.creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

Vehicles that run on diesel are slowly coming back into the market. According to the Department of Energy – Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE), this is due to the fact that diesel engines are not only powerful, but are also fuel efficient. The best diesel SUV engine would outperform a similar gasoline SUV engine by as much as 30-35 percent in terms of fuel efficiency. The best diesel SUV is built using a combination cutting edge engine control systems and fuel injection technologies.

This has resulted in diesel SUVs to be capable of:

• Improved acceleration

• Enhanced power output

• Increased efficiency

On average, the best diesel SUV is more likely to be smoother and quieter than older diesel models. This is all due to advances in vibration damping and noise reduction technologies. They also start more easily and smoothly during cold weather. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), modern diesels are required to meet stringent emission standards just like their gasoline engines counterparts. This has been made possible by advances in alternative fuels such as biodiesel which is extracted from specific plants such as the Jatropha plant and ultra low sulfur diesel. Advanced engine technologies and exhaust treatment have also made this a reality.

The Federal government is clearly committed to a cleaner environment free of Nitrogen Oxide and other pollutants associated with diesel combustion. It offers tax incentives on certain diesel SUVs (2010-11 Volkswagen Golf 2.0L TDI (automatic) and 2009-10 Volkswagen Touareg 3.0L TDI) of up to $3,400 that are purchased within a certain time frame. These diesel SUVs are classified as lean burn vehicles by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). If you want a machine that will be hauling heavy loads and providing comfort at the same time, GMC, FORD and Dodge offer some of the best trucks in the market.

Ever wondered why the best diesel SUV or truck always costs more than its gasoline counterpart? Well, here’s why. Diesel engines require a stronger engine block that is capable of withstanding the high stress environment of diesel combustion. They are also come with extras such as turbochargers for improved performance and a mandatory exhaust treatment which ensures they meet the stipulated exhaust emissions. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) carries out more strenuous testing on the safety aspects of diesels which have made manufacturers equip these vehicles with the latest safety gadgets such as ABS, stability control, side airbags and side curtain full length air bags.

Best Diesel SUV – The Following Diesels Are Top In The Market:

The 2011 Audi Q7 TDI

Scores highly on safety aspects, and is highly stable at high speeds and has an impressive interior that exhibits quality workmanship. The third seat row, unfortunately, is cramped and the SUV has no DVD entertainment system to speak of. It is also quite hefty with a small cargo capacity.

The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $50,900 and comes equipped with a 3.0L turbo diesel V6 engine that is capable of producing 225hp and an impressive torque of 405 lb-ft. It is capable of accelerating from 0-60 mph in 8.6 secs and can tow 6,600 pounds without breaking a sweat. Its fuel economy is 17/25/20 mpg for city driving/highway cruising and a combination of both.

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz M-Class

It is available in hybrid and diesel engine types, has an exquisite interior and comfortable seats. The electronic controls are quite fussy and quite expensive for its segment. Its hybrid version does not really live up to its stipulated fuel efficiency. Its MSRP is $49,700 and has a 3.0L V6 turbo diesel engine whose technology is recognized in 50 US states. It is capable of 400 lb-ft torque and 210hp. 4Matic and 7speed automatic transmission are standard features with an acceleration of 0-60mph in 8.5secs. Its fuel economy is 18/25/21 mpg in cities, highways and a combination of both.

Fuel economy is the biggest consideration for buyers looking for the best diesel SUV in the market according to fueleconomy.gov. This could explain why more manufacturers are investing heavily in developing more efficient diesel engines.

Best Diesel SUV – Audi Q7 TDI Review Video

Image Source Audi Q7 By M 93 (own photo) [Attribution], via Wikimedia Commons
Image Source Mercedes-Benz M-Class By Alexander Johmann (aj82) from Freiburg, Deutschland (Flickr) [CC-BY-SA-2.0 (www.creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

Currently there are more than 230 cars and trucks on the hybrid vehicles list maintained by the various government agencies in the United States. On the list of hybrid vehicles cars top the charts with more than 150 different models listed worldwide. With all the hybrid vehicles available, they are still less than 25% of the total number of cars and trucks available to consumers.

While the internal combustion engine has been the king of the market, alternative fuel vehicles are making a strong appearance around the world and especially in the US market. All hybrid vehicles are not available in every market and many are still in concept stages but with more than 40 available in every US region these engines are making a significant impact on automotive sales.

Hybrid Vehicles List – The Top 6 Hybrid Cars

Topping the hybrid list for cars that provide the most fuel efficient technology is the Nissan Leaf, which is a sedan based model that has a 99 mpg in combined fuel consumption. Second in the hybrid vehicles list in fuel performance is the Chevrolet Volt, which has a combined fuel consumption of more than 60 mpg. The Toyota Prius, which has become the number one selling hybrid, produces 50 mpg and carries the smallest price tag of any mainstream hybrid vehicle.

The Honda Civic Hybrid and the Lexus CT 200H provide approximately 42 combined mpg and are both sedan based vehicles. Finishing out the top 6 on the hybrid vehicles list is the Honda Insight which a genuinely practical car that provides 41 mpg and a not so impressive price tag of $18,200 making it an affordable choice for many looking to move into a hybrid vehicle.

Very seldom have car manufactures been able to focus on the same goal and still produce such an impressive hybrid vehicles list that is being accepted by car buyers all over the world. Nissan, Toyota, Honda and Ford have produced the most vehicles for the mainstream public and continue to lead in almost all categories that are relevant to consumers.

The categories that are most important are: Fuel consumption, base technology, Vehicle type, price and seating arrangement. As more drivers try to find cars for single, short trips hybrid technology may change these categories but for now most consumers are looking for multi-purpose vehicles that can be used for an entire family unit.

This is why the Toyota Prius continues to lead the market. It is an automobile that is capable of carrying 4 adults comfortably a long way on a single tank of gas. It is affordable, with its price tag starting around $22,800, comfortable and reliable. The Chevrolet Volt is quickly making a name for itself with combined 60 mpg but the price tag at over $40,000 is scaring away all but the most adventurous drivers.

Buying a hybrid is a status symbol for some and for others it is a conscious decision to make an environmental statement. Most vehicles are offered with tax incentives that make the prices more palatable to the average consumer but the savings in fuel still do not justify the almost 25% premium that you pay over an internal combustion engine powered vehicle.

Looking over the list of hybrid vehicles, cars still top the list as the number one type, but SUV’s and trucks are becoming the most often purchased style. Consumers and business still need the room to carry people and cargo and while these vehicles have more normal fuel consumption (21 to 35 mpg) their actual utility make them a better choice for most people. The hybrid vehicles list will continue to grow as technology improves but the number of hybrid cars will not significantly increase until prices reach a point that make the cars viable for the average driver and their family.

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Chevrolet Volt Image Source By U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (safercar.gov) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

Fuel efficiency is increasingly becoming an important factor to consider for buyers of SUVs. Here is why most buyers are looking for the most fuel efficient SUV to replace their gas guzzlers of yester years, that are now causing them pain at the gas pump.

• A fuel efficient SUV is guaranteed to save you money. According to the US Department of Energy – Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, it is possible to save as much as $1,400 per annum in fuel costs by ensuring that you drive a car that is highly fuel efficient.

• According to the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the use of a fuel efficient car reduces your personal carbon footprint by reducing emission of carbon dioxide (CO2) from burning diesel and gasoline. CO2 gas and other greenhouse gases are responsible for the drastic climate changes in our planet.

• If more Americans were to use the most fuel efficient SUV in the market, then there would be a significant reduction in the overall cost of oil dependency for the country. According to the US Department of Energy, the cost of oil imports per annum shipped into the US shot from $80 billion in 1980 to more than $350 billion dollars in 2010. This oil dependence makes the US economy prone to price shocks and other manipulations that characterize the global oil market.

• A fuel efficient SUV enhances energy sustainability of oil as it is one of the non renewable energy resource on earth. The current usage rates of oil cannot persist for ever. The wise usage of oil ensures that researchers are able to come up with alternative fuel technologies that are more sustainable.

Most Fuel Efficient SUV – Gas Mileage Reduction Tips

These tips will see to it that your SUV minimizes on fuel consumption and return good mileage per gallon of gas.

• Practice efficient driving; avoid hard braking, and hard acceleration.

• Combine your day’s trips and activities whenever possible.

• Always keep your car in sound mechanical condition.

The following SUV models have been ranked as the best fuel efficient SUVS in the market by the US Department of Energy-fueleconomy.gov.

Top on the list is the 2011 Ford Escape hybrid 4WD which is available in ten trims. The 4WD 4dr Hybrid is one of the ten trims available under the Ford Escape hybrid 4WD. It boasts of an excellent acceleration, good visibility (no blind spots) and a roomy interior for both passengers and cargo. However, the XLS has its shortcomings too. Its interior is a bit sloppy while the engine produces wind and engine noises.

This hybrid model uses a gas/electric power train. The 2.5L 4 cylinder gas engine is boosted by a 70 KW electric motor to produce 177hp. Its continuously variable transmission (CVT) works likes an automatic transmission system with a towing capacity of 1000 pounds which is considerably lower than that of combustion engine powered SUVs. It does not require plug in charging. This SUV achieves an impressive 34 mpg in the City and 31 mpg on the highways. This has made it rank as one of the most fuel efficient SUV in the market. Its MSRP is $31,395.

The next best fuel efficient SUV in the market is the Mazda Tribute 2WD which is available in 9 different trims. The Tribute i Touring 2WD has a 2.5L 171hp engine with a 6 speed automatic transmission. Its interior design, driving dynamics and refinements have been overtaken by other makes such as the Mazda CX-7. It has a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $23,740. The Tribute i Touring achieves up to 28 mpg on the highways and a towing capacity of up to 3,450 pounds according to the Environmental Protection Agency.

The third most fuel efficient SUV is the 2011 Mercury Mariner Hybrid 4WD. It packs 3,500 pounds of towing power and drives just like any other conventional Mariner. This gas electric hybrid comes with both front wheel and four wheel drive. Its 153hp Atkinson cycle engine works in conjunction with a 70 KW electric motor. All of this is coupled to a continuously variable transmission (CVT) which is controlled electronically. It is rated 27 mpg on the highway and 30 mpg in the city by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). It has a MPRS of $29,995.

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Image Source Ford Escape Hybrid By IFCAR (Own work) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

There are many excellent models of SUV available in today’s competitive market. With gas prices expected to rise in the future, SUV gas mileage becomes one of the primary concerns for consumers looking to purchase a vehicle. Many different factors can reduce or maximize an engine’s ability to optimize fuel. SUV MPG depends on the amount of space available, interior additions, hybrid alternate energy technology, and the performance of the suspension system. When considering a vehicle with available cargo space and a generous seating capacity, the SUV is the most logical conclusion.

With Great Power Comes Less Than Great SUV Gas Mileage

Ultimately, designers consider the vehicle’s total weight when determining how large the engine will need to be. As larger motors require more fuel, it has been up to the innovators of the industry to find ways to shed pounds and shave corners in an attempt to add those precious miles to an SUV MPG rating. As a rule, SUVs with seating for eight and the larger SUV’s will have poor fuel consumption; consumers should consider this before making a decision. Some unique SUVs that have emerged in recent years are the Crossovers. These vehicles are capable of seating roughly the same number of people as their larger cousins, admittedly less comfortably, but with a smaller, more compact power train. If space and seating are of the utmost important to the customer, they can expect to sacrifice in the form of SUV gas mileage.

The Role of the Hybrid in Increasing SUV Gas Mileage

Many SUV reviews applaud the role of hybrid engineering in reducing dependency on precious natural resources, and for good reason. Alternate energy drives such as solar and electric work to supplement the power demanded of the motor. It is common for such drives to initiate during preprogrammed intervals. In some electric-drive hybrids, the SUV ratings for mileage are astounding because the combustion engine only works half of the time. The powerful thrust of an internal combustion engine is needed for accelerating from a stop, or during passing, however, after roughly thirty miles per hour, the alternate engine can provide the energy to keep the momentum constant.

There is another revolutionary way of conserving fuel by turning of unused cylinders. While this method does not fall into the category of alternate energy, it certainly qualifies as hybrid technology. In this case, the motor is equipped with either six or eight cylinders that operate together when the demand for power is made by the driver. When the vehicle’s computer recognizes that the throttle is being idle or remaining at a constant such as during highway driving, the motor will shut down a fraction or half of the cylinders available. This reduces the fuel consumption and increases the SUV fuel economy. This technology has made it possible to engineer an SUV that has the capacity of a large vehicle, but the versatility of being a daily driver.

A popular consumer reporting company recently released its preliminary report regarding SUVs in various price ranges that received the best SUV gas mileage. While each of these included on their SUV gas mileage list have their individual merits that make them better suited for different buyers, these were categorized according to most fuel efficient SUV to the least fuel efficient. It is important to note that the top three performing vehicles on the list in the SUV gas mileage category are all utilizing some form of hybrid technology.

From best mileage to worst, below is a list of the current SUVs and their city/highway MPG:

• Ford Escape Hybrid- 31/34
• Toyota Highlander Hybrid Limited- 23/29
• Lexus RX 450h- 22/31
• Mini Countryman S- 19/33
• Nissan Juke- 18/31
• Subaru Forester 2.5X (MT)- 18/30
• Volkswagen Touareg- 17/31
• Mitsubishi Outlander- 18/28
• Toyota RAV-4 (4-cylinder)- 16/29
• Nissan Rogue SL- 17/27
• Mitsubishi Outlander LS (V4)- 16/30
• Kia Sportage LX- 16/30
• Hyundai Tucson GLS- 16-26

There are many other aspects of the new SUVs that add value to the consumer. The features and packages that cater to specific needs and services are crucial to demanding customers. In many SUVs space is of major concern, both for the transport of goods and supplies and that of people. Cargo room and interior amenities are improving with each new model as engineers discover new space-saving designs and utilize popular technology to improve ride quality.

SUV gas mileage is becoming a more important consideration for buyers that are looking for ways to save money. If the fuel economy is the primary concern, SUV reviews are the best way to glean information about the various models. In-depth research is vital to the buying process, saving consumers thousands of dollars, and more importantly the nauseating feeling known as buyer’s remorse. The most economical SUVs on the market in recent years have optimized the use of current technology to bring consumers what they demand.

SUV Gas Mileage – Ford Escape Hybrid Review Video

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Image Source Ford Escape Hybrid By Ford Motor Company [CC-BY-2.0 (www.creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

A keen observer of motoring trends will by now have noticed a significant increase in the number of small SUV cars in show rooms as well as on the roads. While the SUV vehicles have over the years been becoming bigger and less fuel efficient, there has clearly been a turn around in recent times that has seen manufacturers move away from the production of huge gas guzzlers to the more economical small SUV. A major reason for this new trend is obviously the tough economic times being experienced all over the world. Developed and developing countries have found themselves faced with very tough economic situations. This has ultimately pushed consumers to reduce their budgets in every way possible.

Economic Benefits Of A Small SUV

The fuel bill which has significantly gone up due to economic and political crisis in various parts of the world has been one of the key areas when working on financial adjustments for most families. The huge fuel guzzlers have been given up for the more economic compact SUV. This has allowed those who have become accustomed to the higher performance vehicles retain some benefits afforded by the bigger vehicles they were used to. These benefits include better handling on all types of roads, roomy interiors, better luggage capacity, power and much more. Though they will definitely be on a lower scale as compared to the bigger vehicles, a small SUV still delivers each of these to a reasonable level.

When doing a small SUV comparison, cost will often be the area of focus especially now that the economy is what has driven most to the smaller vehicles. For this reason, it must be pointed out that the Jeep Patriot is the cheapest small SUV found within the top 10. Not only is it cheaper at the time of purchase, but it also happens to have lower operation costs. On average, the Jeep Patriot delivers 21 miles per gallon in city driving environments and 26 miles on the highway. The cost factor makes it an excellent choice for those who are looking to drive an SUV vehicle but have a very tight budget.

The Small SUV Delivers Just Like The Bigger Vehicles

Looking at most of the small SUV list of cars written up by a majority of vehicle reviewers on the internet, the best small SUV at the moment is the Audi Q5 S Line. This vehicle has maintained the sleek style of the Audi family and continues to deliver performance, safety and sex appeal while incorporating greater levels of efficiency. Though it is a smaller vehicle as compared to other Audi SUVs, the Q5 S Line is spacious and a comfortable ride on long drives.

This Audi has however mot been voted as the best small SUV due to its appearance alone, it also has some very good mechanical specs. It comes with a V-6, 3.2l DOHC engine which delivers 270hp at 6500 revs per minute. Its maximum torque is 234lb per ft and this power is transmitted through a 6 speed Tiptronic automatic gear. As you can see, this small SUV still has what it takes to deliver the performance needed of vehicles in its class.

The crossover SUV has also gained a fair amount of popularity with drivers in many parts as it delivers all the comfort and benefits of traditional SUV cars while affording you the efficiency and convenience of a sedan. The Honda Accord Crosstour is an excellent example of that brings you the best of both worlds. While some do not approve of the looks most crossover SUVs have, there is no doubt that they are an excellent option for those who need to get a practical compact SUV that can be used everyday in the city as well as on country roads.

The small SUV 2012 selection is largely expected to be hybrid SUVs in line with the anticipated move in the same direction in almost all other vehicle categories. This is because car manufacturers have realized that fuel economy and environmental conservation are now the main considerations for most car buyers. Those who have failed to catch on to this are well on their way to failure. Vehicles such as the Ford Escape Hybrid which is the most popular SUV hybrid in the United States are expected to do even better in coming months.

To sum it all up we can safely conclude that the small SUV is now dominating the roads due to demand from drivers who are looking to continue enjoying comfort and performance but at a much lower cost. This has spurred car manufacturers to take up the development and production of compact SUVs that are cheaper to buy, maintain and run. We should expect the small SUV to continue dominating the vehicle market for sometime into the future.

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Audi Q5 Image Source By S 400 HYBRID (Own work (own photo)) [Attribution], via Wikimedia Commons
Ford Escape Hybrid Image Source By Bull-Doser (Own work.) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons
Jeep Patriot Image Source By Bull-Doser (Own work.) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons
Honda Crosstour Image Source By Tabercil (Flickr) [CC-BY-SA-2.0 (www.creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

The influx of diesel SUV models has proven so popular that all fifty states now have available models from dealerships for customers looking to take advantage of the lower costs of diesel fuel. Unlike standard gasoline engines, these models are capable of high performance at a low fuel consumption cost, making them ideal choices for families or individuals looking for long distance travel or living in areas where gasoline costs have skyrocketed. Both American and foreign car companies have produced a large number of new models for the public, making it possible to choose different features and price tags that best fit your needs.

German Efficiency Has Created Great Diesel SUV Models

European car companies were hopping on the diesel bandwagon long before American companies were even thinking about putting these types of engines in passenger vehicles. The lower costs of refining diesel in Germany would be the initial impetus for refining truck engines to fit within smaller vehicles. As such, many of the best diesel SUV models have come from German car manufacturers, with some models entering the fourth or fifth generation. Like most European cars, these value fuel economy more than interior space, but there are several SUVs that do not compromise on either.

The second-generation Volkswagen Touareg may be the most popular diesel SUV 2012 markets have to offer. Named after the Saharan nomad tribes, the Touareg lives up to its namesake by offering excellent reliability and efficiency over the course of long distance travel. Potential owners can either choose a standard V6 engine or choose the turbo diesel three liter engine for better top speeds (but poorer gas mileage). This eight-speed transmission offers an industry-leading twenty-four miles per gallon of fuel, making it practical and affordable for budget-oriented buyers. The starting price of forty-eight thousand dollars is also more amenable than some competing models.

The Mercedes-Benz M-Class offers a step up from budget-sized models, with a luxurious five-person interior that combines features like lumbar support, heated seats, driver memory, and MB-Tex leather seat trim. Mercedes-Benz has long since valued style and comfort over lower prices and the M-Class is no exception to their formula. With a price tag of fifty-three thousand dollars, it may be expensive enough to scare off buyers looking for a smaller investment, but the M-Class has been proven to be worth every penny.

The safety features are superb and among the best of all diesel SUV models. Featuring five-star crash test ratings and some of the highest airbag performances of any German car, the M-Class is designed to keep family and friends comfortable and safe. At six thousand pounds it is one of the heaviest SUVs around and the gas mileage suffers: a mere twenty-one miles per gallon.

The 2012 Audi Q7 has been the company’s introduction to the luxury SUV market. This diesel SUV used a new type of interior spacing for the original model while the 2012 design has changed very little. The Q7 has more interior space than any other German diesel model, boasting seventy-two feet of maximum cargo capacity and seating for seven. For larger families, this is the best buy, as it not only has enough space but also is much less expensive. At forty six thousand dollars, it is the cheapest model you can find, and at twenty-two miles per gallon it performs with distinction. Featuring auto-dimming mirrors, BlueTooth capacity, and xenon headlights, this is a vehicle that can offer solutions for nearly any automobile problem.

On Our Side Of The Pond

While American diesel production has lagged behind European competitors, there have been several breakthroughs in development that appear poised to enter into the market. Ford and General Motors have been reluctant to break into the diesel market even though their lines of pickup trucks have been running on the fuel for nearly as long as they have been in production. More customers are importing their SUVs from overseas, making it difficult for United States companies to catch up. Not all companies are looking into production, but there is one hopeful for 2012.

Headlining the short list of American SUVs is the 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee, the most popular SUV model from American markets, now refitted with diesel capacity. With a powerful 290 horsepower engine, this SUV can be fitted with a Hemi engine that gets a modest 20 miles per gallon performance (or five hundred miles on a full tank). The Grand Cherokee has won numerous awards for safety, featuring superb crash-test ratings to go along with passenger comfort. The interior of the Cherokee has heated leather seats in both rows, rear back-up cameras for parking assistance, rain-sensitive handles, and standard navigation assistance. At forty-three thousand dollars, it is the least expensive American diesel SUV model.

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Volkswagen Touareg Image Source By M 93 (Own work) [CC-BY-SA-3.0-de (www.creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/de/deed.en)], via Wikimedia Commons
Mercedes-Benz M Class Image Source By Alexander Johmann (aj82) from Freiburg, Deutschland (Flickr) [CC-BY-SA-2.0 (www.creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0)], via Wikimedia Commons
Audi Q7 Image Source By M 93 (own photo) [Attribution], via Wikimedia Commons
Jeep Grand Cherokee Image Source By IFCAR (Own work) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

The SUV has been America’s favorite car since it came out in the 1990s. Soccer moms as well as professional fell in love with the versatility the SUV has to offer. SUVs have never been gas savers and the numerous spikes in gas prices have contributed to the fact that prospective buyers looked at alternatives to the SUV. The alternative is to look and compare hybrid SUV models. Which car brand offers the best hybrid SUV depends on the individual situation? Contenders for this title are certainly the Mercury Mariner hybrid, the Ford Escape hybrid, the Toyota Highlander hybrid, and the Audi hybrid.

The Mercury Mariner hybrid and the Ford Escape hybrid are essentially the same SUVs. Mercury cars were essentially meant to be a upscale version of their Ford counterparts, but for the most part only received small, mostly visual changes, like a different grille and taillights.

How to Compare Hybrid SUV Vehicles That Are Essentially Identical

Comparing the key features of the hybrid SUVs gives potential buyer a good idea which vehicles will serve them best in their particular situation. Key features include engine, cargo, interior, price, fuel consumption, technical details, and security features.

The Mercury Mariner hybrid is a compact crossover SUV. It is available either as a front wheel, or four-wheel drive. High end features like a leather wrapped steering wheel, wood-grain interior trim and dual zone climate control are standard on the Mariner, MyKey parental controls, the Sync electronics interface, and Satellite radio are also included. The Mariner is available with a leather package, which adds heated leather front seats. The Hybrid premium package also adds parking sensors, a navigation system, and other features.

Key features of the Mercury Mariner hybrid include:

• 2.5-L four cylinder gasoline engine plus an electric motor with a continuously variable transmission
• Combined 177 hp
• 34 mpg/city and 32 mpg /hwy
• 29 cubic feet of cargo room, 66 cubic feet with the backseats down
• Security features: ABS, stability control, airbags for front seats, and side curtain airbags with rollover sensors.
• MyKey lets the parents program the vehicle’s speed and control the stereo volume
• Interior: functional
• Base price $30,115; with options: $31,865

The Ford Escape hybrid has many of the features that are available in the Mercury Mariner hybrid. The Escape has been around for five years now, and changed very little since it was first introduced. The Escape features the same engine as the Mariner, achieving the same fuel economy. Technical features include an automated parallel-parking system, and Ford’s Sync voice activated multimedia system. The Ford Escape is available in two trim levels: base or limited. Key features of the Mariner are also featured in the Escape. Included are the MyKey feature, as well as the safety features. The Mariner and the Escape earned 5 stars in crash tests. The base model Ford Escape costs $30,570, the Limited is available for $33,080. It is certainly a good idea for a potential buyer to compare hybrid SUV models before making a decision.

The Toyota Highlander hybrid is also a contender for the title of “best hybrid SUV”. The Highlander is available in two different trim levels; the base and limited. This vehicle features a 3.6-L hybrid engine with 280 hp, and a continuously variable-speed automatic transmission. The base model has a 8-way power adjustable driver seat, premium cloth upholstered bucket seats, plenty of storage, interior air filtration, front and rear air conditioner, and audio and cruise controls on the steering wheel.

Key features of the Highlander hybrid include:

• 3.5-L hybrid engine, V-6
• 280 hp
• 28 mpg/city and 28 mpg/hwy
• Cargo capacity: 10.3 with all seats in place; max. 94.1 cubic feet
• Security features: stability control, traction control, engine immobilizer, emergency braking assist, and 4 wheel ABS.
• Interior: functional with bucket front seats and premium cloth, tilt and telescoping steering wheel, audio and cruise controls on the steering wheel.
• Price: Base model at $38,140, the Limited at $43,795.

Even though the Toyota Highlander hybrid is priced considerably higher it deserves a second look when you compare hybrid SUV vehicles.

Then there is the Audi Q5 hybrid. This luxury hybrid SUV has a 2.0-L engine with 4 cylinders. With 200 hp it is not the most powerful SUV. The Audi Q5 has all-wheel drive, and a 6-speed shiftable automatic transmission. Safety features include stability control as well as traction control. A post-collision system is something other hybrid SUVs do not offer. Electronic brake force distribution is standard in the Audi Q5. The interior is luxurious and functional as it is in all other Audi vehicles. A premium sound system and 14 speakers complete the interior. The cargo space is listed with 29.1 cubic feet, which is actually the average of these hybrid SUVs.

At this time, fuel consumption data, and the price of this vehicle, are not available. The hybrid SUV reviews do not list this vehicle which was released late 2010. This luxury SUV is most likely the vehicle with the highest price when potential buyers compare hybrid SUV models.

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Mercury Mariner Hybrid Image Source By Mariordo Mario Roberto Duran Ortiz (Own work) [CC-BY-SA-3.0 (www.creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)], via Wikimedia Commons
Ford Escape Hybrid Image Source By IFCAR (Own work) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons
Toyota Highlander Hybrid Image Source By Bull-Doser (Own work.) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons
Audi Q5 Image Source By S 400 HYBRID (Own work (own photo)) [Attribution], via Wikimedia Commons

A fuel efficient SUV, the words alone are enough to get us drooling. Having a big spacious car to drive your whole family in and load up with groceries without cutting into your monthly budget sounds too good to be true, but there are quite a few models out there that you might want to consider. It is wrong to think that only small cars are fuel-efficient. There are several SUV models that are quite fuel efficient.

A Range of Fuel Efficient SUV Models

Featured in the best SUV list is the Ford Escape Hybrid. It gives you:

• 34 MPG in the city, 34 MPG on the highway and an average of 32 MPG
• It comes in a 2.5 liter, a 4-cylinder engine with 177 HP
• This fuel efficient large SUV goes from 0-60 mph in around 9.5 seconds.

A fuel efficient luxury SUV is the Lexus RX 450h. This beautiful looking model stands quite high on the list of fuel efficient SUV models because of its mileage. This can also falls in the hybrid SUV range and gives you:

• 32 in the city, 28 on the highway and an average of 30
• It comes with a 3.5 liter, V6 engine and a powerhouse of 295 HP

If you are looking for a sports-like SUV, then the Nissan Juke is as far as you will have to look. It is an affordable sports model and seems like a cross between a sports car and an SUV packing in the advantages of both. You may want to opt for this fuel efficient midsize SUV if you are sporty and young at heart. It gives you:

• 27 MPG in the city, 32 MPG on the highway and an average of 29 MPG
• It comes with a 1.6 liter, V6 engine and 188 HP
• This model goes from 0-60 mph in 7.3 seconds

Everybody looks for a good bargain, even in fuel efficient SUV models and the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is the ideal purchase. Falling in the less than $19,000 category, this car is a bargain for those big on budget cars with great performance. With this model you will get:

• 25 MPG in the city, 31 on the highway and an average of 27 MPG
• It comes with a 2.0 liter, 4-cylinder engine and 148 HP
• This model goes from 0-60 mph in 8.4 seconds

Another quality fuel efficient SUV model is the GMC Terrain. Despite the fact that it comes with a 26 mpg combined fuel capability, you do not have to compromise on space with this model. It offers you:

• 22 MPG in the city, 32 on the highway and an average of 26 MPG
• It comes with a 2.4 liter, 4-cylinder and 182 HP
• This model goes from 0-60 mph in 9.2 seconds

The Jeep Patriot is good on the budget, scores well in the looks department and falls in the $15,000 category. It looks quite like the Jeep Cherokee and is great if you need to tow a vehicle or do some off-road driving. It scores really high on the national crash tests and therefore, it is also a very safe vehicle to own. You can look forward to:

• 23 MPG in the city, 29 MPG on the highway and an average of 25 MPG
• It comes with a 2.0 liter, 4-cylinder and 158 HP
• This model goes from 0-60 mph in 10.1 seconds

Making The Right Choice In fuel Efficient SUV Models

When SUVs first came into the market, many people felt that they were nothing more than gas-guzzlers. Today, they have quite a good reputation for being fuel efficient, sometimes more so than smaller cars in the market. When making a choice, keep in mind that an SUV in general will give you around 20 mpg more when you put together its performance on the highway and in the city. Larger SUVs may not really stick to this number, but the mid-size ones are definitely a better bet.

There are three kinds of SUVs that you can consider. There are SUVs that are categorized as small crossovers, mid-size SUV crossovers like the the Nissan Juke and finally the large crossover SUVs. Each of these has their own set of plus points and ways of giving you some great mileage. You will have to do your research on all the models and their offerings. Almost anywhere you look online you will be able to find a fuel efficient SUV 2012 model that you can take into consideration.

Finding the right kind of fuel efficient SUV will completely depend on the kind of time and effort you put into researching the vehicle, online and in person. This is not a decision to be hurried and one you should make after careful comparison of the various models, your budget and you and your family’s needs.

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Ford Escape Hybrid Image Source By IFCAR (Own work) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons
Lexus RX450H Image Source By M 93 (Own work) [CC-BY-SA-3.0-de (www.creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/de/deed.en)], via Wikimedia Commons
Nissan Juke Image Source By S 400 HYBRID (own photo) [Attribution], via Wikimedia Commons
Mitsubishi Outlander Image Source By IFCAR (Own work) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons
GMC Terrain Image Source By IFCAR (Own work) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons
Jeep Patriot Image Source By IFCAR (Own work) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

SUV’s are known fuel-guzzlers. It is no secret that they have a tendency to deplete the cash in your wallet as their exhaust emissions are depleting the earth’s ozone layer. A used hybrid SUV, however, defies every stereotype associated with sports utility vehicles. Like all hybrid vehicles, it uses a combination of petroleum and alternative fuel sources, greatly cutting its emissions and greatly cutting its need to be fed constantly with gas. Like regular SUV’s, however, the hybrid SUV is appreciated for its strength, its rugged appearance and the ability to drive off road. Combined with the ecological and economic benefits, these cars are the perfect balance of form and heightened function.

Used Hybrid SUV: Ecology and Economy

The most immediate benefit for most people who buy a used hybrid SUV is the reduction of fuel costs. Hybrid SUV’s run by combining a traditional combustion engine with electric battery power. The added battery power can greatly cut the amount of fuel needed to run the car. In fact, some of the best hybrid SUV’s can drive twenty-five miles using around $2 worth of gas. This means that while it may cost the same amount to fill up the tank, you will have to fill it up far less often. Depending on how much you drive, you could save hundreds of dollars each year on fuel costs.

While most people appreciate the money saved, hybrid vehicles are also known for their lessened impact on the environment. As people reduce their oil consumption, they reduce the amount of oil that must be drilled. While this reduces the impact of oil rigs and drill companies, it also reduces the chance of ecological disasters such as spills, leaks and explosions. Additionally, hybrid cars emit fewer greenhouse gasses than their traditional counterparts. While a regular SUV may spew as much as 15 tons of greenhouse emissions into the air each year, a hybrid SUV may produce as little as 5 tons a year.

Used Hybrid SUV: The Sports Utility Vehicle

When thinking about a used hybrid SUV, many people focus on the economical and ecological impacts of used cars SUV. While these are important, however, it is also important to remember that these cars are still the sports utility vehicles known and loved by millions. In fact, many hybrid models are simply regular models with hybrid engines. They look the same, and drive with the same power. They have enough cargo space to be used for everything from grocery shopping to camping. Their seats are padded and comfortable, as suited to a road trip as they are to your daily commute and they come with all of the security features, such as airbags and alarms, which are standard issue for regular SUV’s.

There are, of course, both risks and benefits to buying a used vehicle. The main benefit is cost, which goes down substantially the moment a car is driven off the lot. This means that while a new hybrid SUV may be out of your price range, a used model, such as a used Toyota hybrid SUV, a used Ford hybrid SUV or a used Lexus hybrid SUV, may sit comfortably within it. Additionally, it is often easy to find a model that has barely been driven. Many car aficionados trade their old car each year for the latest model.

While this may seem extravagant, it means that you may be able to find a used hybrid SUV for sale, with few miles on it, for a fraction of the cost of the new vehicle. While there is always some risk that a car has been in an accident or is flawed in some way, there is an increasing number of online car reports that detail a vehicle’s history. Services such as these are making it much easier to verify that a used vehicle really is what it says it is.

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Image Source Lexus RX 450H By Bull-Doser (Own work) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

The Evolution of Hybrid Vehicles

The concept of hybrid vehicles began in the 1600s, when a Flemish astronomer designed the first steam-powered vehicle. Other European designers then followed suit. Eventually, they came up vehicles powered by electricity, batteries, or a combination of both. By the 1900s, Americans were building cars powered by steam, gasoline, and electricity. At the first National Automobile Show in New York, the people’s favorite was the electric car, followed by the steam-powered engine. In 1916, the first hybrid cars came out, but with less power and high operating expense, they did not sell well.

Self-starting gas engines came on the scene in the 1920s, and were so popular that electric and steam engines ceased production. By 1966, pollution was such a problem that Congress recommended electric cars. Car manufacturers quickly came up with a hybrid car powered by electromechanical transmission, or EMT, with backup of a small combustion drive engine. Many of today’s hybrid vehicles were inspired by that concept.

Hybrid Vehicles List

There is now a constantly growing hybrid vehicles list, primarily from Chevrolet, Toyota, Ford, Lincoln, Honda, Lexus, GMC, Cadillac, BMW, Porsche, Mercedes, Infiniti, Audi, Kia, Buick, Mitsubishi, Fisker, and Volkswagen.

Used Hybrid Vehicles

Car buyers searching for new hybrid vehicles will find local selections limited, and often they must travel to other areas, so often they choose used hybrid vehicles. These are cheaper, will hold their value, and will still be in demand when the car owner decides to sell.

All hybrid vehicles are fuel-efficient, whether used or new. The top five in the mileage category are the Mitsubishi PX-MIEV at 117 mpg, Fisker Karma at 67 mpg, Chevrolet Volt at 60 mpg, Toyota Prius at 50 mpg, and the Honda Civic Hybrid at 44 mpg.

Customers who customarily drive SUVs will find the same space inside a hybrid SUV, and the same ride. If efficiency and affordability are the most important features, then the Ford Focus Hybrid should be at the top of the list. For the most luxurious choice, consider a Cadillac Escalade Hybrid or Lexus RX 450h. If 7 passenger seating is critical, the choices are the Chevy Tahoe Hybrid, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid, and the Cadillac Escalade Hybrid. If towing and V8 performance are a priority, then the GMC Yukon Hybrid and Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid are the top choices.

Alternative Fuel Vehicles

Alternative fuel vehicles are not hybrids, but they provide some of the same benefits. There are electric cars like the Chevrolet Volt, which can go 25-50 miles electrically, then another 300 miles on gas. The Nissan Leaf can go 60 to 110 miles, and costs about $33,000. The Fiskar Karma can go 50 miles on the electric charge, then 200 miles on the gas engine, and costs about $87,000.

The Wheego Life will go 100 miles, and costs about $33,000, and the Smart EV can go 83 miles and sells for about $45,000. The Coda can go 90 to 120 miles, and will cost about $44,000 when it is released. The City goes 125 miles, costs about $35,000, but has no U. S. dealerships.

There are also new clean diesel vehicles, mostly made by Volkswagen. These include the Golf TDI, 2011 Jetta TDI, 2011 Jetta SportWagen, and the Audi A3 TDI, among others. Most get approximately 34 mpg, and cost from $25,000 to $30,000.

Which Hybrid Vehicle to Purchase

With so many choices, it may be hard to decide which fuel efficient vehicles are a consumer’s best fit. It all depends on priorities. However, if that car is not available, it is worth looking at used hybrid vehicles to get what a customer wants, when they want it.

Hybrid Vehicles – Fisker Karma

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Image Source Fisker Karma By Overlaet (Own work) [CC-BY-SA-3.0 (www.creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0) or GFDL (www.gnu.org/copyleft/fdl.html)], via Wikimedia Commons
Image Source Chevrolet Volt By Mariordo Mario Roberto Duran Ortiz (Own work) [CC-BY-SA-3.0 (www.creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

Hybrid cars are a meaningful way to lessen your environmental impact and save money, too. Getting much greater gas mileage than their non hybrid counterparts, used hybrid cars consume fewer fossil fuels mile per mile helping lessen our society’s dependence on gasoline and oil. Additionally, buying used hybrid vehicles is another way to lessen your environmental impact by reusing and recycling a great used car.

When shopping for any automobile, it is important to do your research. Make sure you gather information on hybrid cars before your shop so you will feel confident when you walk on the lot. Hybrid cars are comfortable and reliable, so it is often personal preference and the listed hybrid cars prices that determine what consumers buy. The Honda Civic hybrid and the Toyota Prius hybrid are perennial favorites on lists from consumers and automobile review experts, so be sure to check out both these exciting options.

How Much Do Hybrid Cars Cost?

When hybrids were first introduced, the high cost kept many people from ownership. Now that there are more and older models available, the prices have lowered and buying used saves consumers even more. Pre-owned Honda Civic hybrid cars can be purchased from a range of three to ten thousand dollars depending on year, mileage and condition. Compared to the base model cost of a new Civic Hybrid at twenty-four thousand dollars, a pre-owned model makes good financial sense. Similarly, previously owned Toyota Prius hybrids range from two to fourteen thousand while buying one new will start at a cost of twenty-three thousand dollars. It is clear that helping to save the environment by buying a previously owned hybrid will also help save you money.

Gas Mileage in Hybrid Cars

The Toyota Prius gets an impressive fifty-one miles per gallon on highways and forty-eight gallons per mile in the city. The Honda Civic hybrid clocks in at forty-four miles per gallon regardless of city or highway conditions. Compared to the mileage of similar sized Toyota cars getting between twenty-two and thirty-three miles per gallon depending on conditions and Honda vehicles getting twenty-eight to thirty-nine mile per gallon, the advantage of buying hybrid is in the numbers.

Just a few years ago, shopping for a hybrid car was daunting, expensive and seemed somewhat elitist to many buyers. Thankfully, advancements in thinking and technology have changed all that. Auto makers, engineers and designers have worked hard to advance hybrid technology. These advancements allow greater selection, reliability, options, and prices for consumers. Today’s hybrid vehicles are safe, reliable and comfortable. Trading in your reliance on gas does not mean trading in comfort and style, hybrids are sleek and beautifully designed.

Buying a previously owned hybrid vehicle is a smart way to stretch your gas dollar and reduce your consumption of fossil fuels. Driving a used hybrid is a great example of recycling and reusing in action and shows your commitment to making environmentally friendly choices whenever possible. Go online to research previously owned Honda Civic hybrids and Toyota Prius in your area and get an idea of available price and selection. Take your favorite models out for a test spin and see for yourself how impressive the technology behind these green cars truly is.

Once you have experienced the comfortable, smooth quiet ride hybrid cars offer you will want to own one for yourself. If you do your research, shop smart and buy used, fitting a great used hybrid car in your budget will be easy. Saving the earth while saving money is a lofty goal, but choosing to buy a used hybrid car is one step that fits the bill.

Hybrid Cars – Toyota Prius Review Video

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Image Source Toyota Prius By Mariordo Mario Roberto Duran Ortiz (Own work) [CC-BY-SA-3.0 (www.creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)], via Wikimedia Commons
Image Source Honda Civic hybrid By Bull-Doser (Own work) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

The hybrid truck is a relatively new concept, when you consider the history of hybrid vehicles. However, this vehicle is fast becoming popular, as many popular auto manufacturers are coming up with better models each year. Hybrid technology, tries to make the best use of dual motive power of electricity and liquid fuel. A hybrid car typically has an electric motor powered by batteries, and a gasoline engine. To get the best fuel efficiency, these cars have a sleek design and are much lighter than the regular cars. However, applying hybrid technology to a truck is much more difficult, as the vehicle needs a much sturdier design, and the capacity to pull a heavier load.

Several attempts were made to introduce an efficient hybrid pickup truck in the past, but these models did not become popular. The main problem was the pulling power was not adequate, and electric motor needed recharging quite fast, and the recharging time was quite long. There were many technological advances made after that, and the latest models of hybrid truck have much better features that have overcome most of the problems. Here we will discuss the main features, and compare the most popular models in the market today.

Silverado Chevy Hybrid Truck

This hybrid truck is a full-size pickup with one of the best fuel economies you can get. It gives 23 MPG on the highway and 20 in the city. The truck has a sophisticated instrumentation panel that lets you monitor you efforts at conserving fuel, and indicates the operational efficiency of the engine. You can operate the vehicle with the electric motor, or gasoline engine, or in a mode, that is a combination of both. These three modes are ideal while traveling with a lighter load at low speeds. While carrying heavier loads or towing, you can additionally use the electric assist for more power, apart from the power of the eight-cylinder engine. In 2WD, this hybrid truck provides a towing capacity of 6,100 lbs and a payload capacity of 1,553 lbs. The safety features include a steel cage, six air bags, and a sensor that can automatically request an emergency response.

A-Bat Toyota Hybrid Truck

The A-Bat has a sleek aerodynamic design that is unique among pickups. This hybrid truck can be transformed into a two-person cab with an eight-foot truck bed, or you can keep it at the four-passenger setup with a 4-foot truck bed. The power system allows you operate the vehicle with either the gasoline engine or electric motor, or you could operate the gasoline engine to provide power to the electric motor. The company boasts a 40% fuel economy under normal driving conditions. This compact hybrid pickup almost looks like a SUV, and is quite a lightweight. There is an additional power pack that is portable, and a retractable unit for navigation. The vehicle also sports solar panels on the dashboard, which are used for powering the portable pack, and the unit for navigation.

Ford Hybrid Truck

Ford has mainly been able to develop the Escape SUV into a hybrid. However, the company is about to release the hybrid version of its famous F-150 pickup truck. This hybrid truck will have the same size and all the features and power of the regular F-150, and be able to travel about 400 miles on the hybrid mode. Many people are highly optimistic about this model, and independent testing has shown good promise.

If you want, good fuel economy, and want to cut down fuel emissions, then a hybrid truck is the best option. The Silverado seems to be the sturdiest and most powerful of the lot, and its price starts from $38,725. However, the Ford F-150 will be a close contender, once it is on the road. Toyota and Ford are also going to collaborate with their existing hybrid technologies to come up with better models.

Hybrid Truck – Chevrolet Silverado Hybrid Instant Impression

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Image Source Chevy Silverado Hybrid By IFCAR (Own work) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons
Image Source Toyota Hybrid A-Bat DDima [CC-BY-SA-1.0 (www.creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/1.0)], via Wikimedia Commons
Image Source Ford Hybrid truck By Bull-Doser (Own work.) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

The SUV hybrid market has experienced rapid growth in recent years and for good reason. This growth has been generated by the skyrocketing gasoline prices and a push for fuel emission reductions. The sport utility vehicle has been a popular model for manufactures for several decades. The additional comfort and increased interior space provided by these hybrid vehicles is hard to match with alternative body styles. When you combine the attractive features of the sport utility vehicle with the fuel efficiency of the hybrid SUV, you receive the best of both worlds. It is no longer necessary to drive a smaller, less comfortable sedan in order to conserve fuel.

This shift in demand for comfort, combined with fuel economy, has motivated automobile manufactures to create a product that would satisfy both requirements. That product is the SUV hybrid.

This Is A List Of The Top 4 SUV Hybrids For 2011

when considering fuel economy and miles per gallon:

1. Ford Escape Hybrid 2WD: 34 city and 31 highway

2. Mazda Tribute Hybrid 2WD: 34 city and 31 highway

3. Mercury Mariner Hybrid 2WD: 34 city and 31 highway

4. Lexus RX 450h: 32 city and 28 highway

The top three show identical numbers because of the general similarities between them. Each of these three vehicles is equipped with a four cylinder, 2.5-liter engine with automatic transmissions. The Lexus RS 450h has six cylinders, a 3.5-liter engine with an automatic transmission. All four of these vehicles are in the sport utility class and can outperform almost all other traditional cars on the road with respect to fuel economy and miles per gallon.

While fuel economy is an important aspect to consider when choosing your next vehicle, the hybrid SUV class offers so much more. Now that we have selected the top four in gas savings alone, we can look at some additional features.

SUV Hybrid – Additional Features

The 2011 Ford Escape has incorporated many of the features you would expect to find in older models while making a few technological updates. This year’s model comes with HD radio, Active Park Assist, and Electric Power Assist Steering that are all new features. MSRP: $29,865.

The 2011 Mazda Tribute provides a more affordable alternative to the other gas saving SUV hybrid models listed by refraining from filling it full of extras that you may not want or need. This is still a comfortable and roomy sport utility priced at, MSRP: $20,555.

The 2011 Mercury Mariner could be the safest choice on this list as it has received 5 out of 5 stars for all occupants during government crash testing. Similar to the Ford Escape, the Mariner provides some high-tech features such as the Sync voice-activated multimedia system and the parallel parking assistance. MSRP: $30,115.

Last on this list, but certainly not least is the 2011 Lexus 450h. With the additional power provided by the 3.5 liter V6 engine and sleek design, this is a sport utility anyone would be happy to drive. Lexus has the reputation of sparing no expense when it comes to luxury and comfort. The 450h lives up to that reputation. The combination of power, technological gadgetry, fuel economy and comfort makes this a total package. MSRP: $43,235.

There are many options available when considering buying a new SUV hybrid. Determining which one is right for you will depend on your specific preferences. Fuel economy is an important aspect to consider but having a vehicle that you will enjoy and be happy with matters. The initial price of the various hybrids available will depend on the dynamic features included. The price range varies significantly so finding the right SUV hybrid at the right price should be possible.

SUV Hybrid – Ford Escape Hybrid – Kelley Blue Book’s Review Video

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