Sunday, January 24, 2010

Hybrid SUV Roundup


Hybrid SUVs
combine the interior space and ride quality of an SUV with fuel-saving capabilities of hybrid cars. Some environmentalists have criticized the hybrid SUV as a misapplication of gas-electric technology. It’s true that hybrid SUVs do not reach the level of fuel efficiency of smaller hybrids in terms of miles-per-gallon. Yet, miles-per-gallon is a non-linear and counter-intuitive form of measurement. An apparently small jump in fuel efficiency—for example, from 14 to 16 mpg—saves as much oil as increasing fuel economy from 35 to 50 mpg, according to the Union of Concerned Scientists.

Which are the Best Hybrid SUVs? That Depends on Your Needs.

With more than 10 hybrid SUVs currently on the market—and more in the works— consumers can choose features and pricing for the best hybrid SUVs suited to their specific needs:

  • Affordability and Maximum Efficiency: Ford Escape Hybrid, Mazda Tribute Hybrid, Mercury Mariner Hybrid
  • V8 Performance and Towing: Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid, GMC Yukon Hybrid
  • Seven-Passenger Seating: Toyota Highlander Hybrid
  • Luxury: Cadillac Escalade Hybrid, Lexus RX 400h

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