Hybrid SUV 2012: Money Or The Environment; Most Of Us Have To Make A Choice

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

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