Buying a hybrid car gives car owners several advantages. Some of the hybrid car facts are convincing enough for the consumer to consider switching to hybrid cars.
A hybrid car has lower emissions and better mileage than a conventional gas-powered car. With the government’s aggressive hybrid car program, potential car owners can benefit from tax cuts and incentives. Hybrid cars generally have a lower cost of ownership even if you have to pay a higher price up front.
The top hybrid cars today are made by Asian car companies like Toyota and Honda. The Toyota Prius and the Honda Insight are considered two of the best hybrid cars in the market today. American built hybrid cars are close behind with Ford Fusion and Chevy Malibu. While American carmakers are admittedly behind in hybrid technology compared to their Japanese competitors, they are quickly closing the gap. Before long, the car-buying public can choose from a large selection of hybrid cars with better competition from American car makers.
Ford Escape Hybrid
The Ford Escape Hybrid is the most fuel-efficient hybrid car in the SUV class. The Escape’s fuel economy rating is 34 miles per gallon on the city and 31 miles per gallon on the highway. With this kind of efficiency rating, the Ford Escape is a class above the rest among hybrid SUVs.
The Ford Escape offers plenty of comfort, space, and versatility for a hybrid-run vehicle. The 2009 edition replaces the 2.3 liter engine with a more powerful 2.5 liter engine capable of running up to 177 horsepower. This model also includes a refined hybrid braking system for more efficient energy consumption. The braking system allows better traction and stability for a smoother driving feel and a more effective transition between speeds. Noise and vibration have also been reduced compared to the previous models.
The Ford Escape is an ideal hybrid car for the family. However, it may not be ideal against harsh weather and poor road conditions. The Escape Hybrid is also 300 pounds heavier compared to the conventional gas-powered Escape, which makes your driving experience sluggish. Even so, the Ford Escape Hybrid is more than adequate for families looking for more space in a sleek package.
Ford Fusion Hybrid
Although many will admit that Japanese hybrid car technology has gone far ahead than American cars, the 2010 Ford Fusion looks like a worthy contender to the leading 2010 Toyota Prius.
The Ford Fusion Hybrid has a 2.5 liter four-cylinder engine supported by a full hybrid system. This hybrid car can run up to 191 horsepower. Although the Fusion’s engine power pales compared to other hybrid cars, the Ford Fusion delivers well with seamless driving experience and precision handling. This car can reach up to 47 miles per hour on electric power alone, and its fuel economy is rated 41 miles per gallon in the city and 36 miles per gallon on the highway.
The fuel efficiency of this top-class hybrid car is complemented with a luxurious interior. The Ford Fusion features leather seats and leather wrapped steering wheels, LCD instrumental panel, and customized gauging. The Ford Fusion is further enhanced by a navigation system with Sirius Travel Link and multiple connections for phones and MP3 players.
Although the Toyota Prius is still the leading hybrid car, this American hybrid car is quickly catching up and is a perfect second option if you are considering a hybrid car for the family.
Chevy Malibu Hybrid Sedan
The Chevy Malibu Sedan is GM’s answer to the trend of hybrid cars. This hybrid car model uses a mild hybrid system rather than the dual mode full hybrid system. As a result, the Chevy Malibu offers less fuel efficiency at a lower price compared to other top hybrid sedans. The Chevy Malibu offers a 15% increase in fuel economy compared to conventional models. The Chevy Malibu is General Motors’ attempt to penetrate a market dominated by Toyota and Honda.
This hybrid car compares favorably to other luxury sedans with its crisp tailored lines and upscale styling. The material and build quality of this car is what is expected from classic GM craftsmanship. This mild hybrid car runs with a 2.4 liter four cylinder engine, although you have the option of putting a 3.6 liter V6 engine.
Mercury Mariner Hybrid
The Mercury Mariner Hybrid has a similar build compared to the Ford Escape, with the Mariner having a more luxurious interior and grill. This hybrid car, along with the Ford Escape, is the most efficient SUV today. The Mariner can run on pure electric power at a speed of 25 miles per hour while offering smooth handling and excellent driving feel. The 2009 Mariner also has an added electronic stability control.
The Mariner’s extensive exterior was restyled and upgraded for the latest release. The interior includes automatic climate control, in-dash CD changer, and MP3 audio input. The optional package includes features like rear parking sensors, heated leather seats, and upgraded speakers.
The Mercury Mariner is an ideal hybrid car for owners who want a luxurious SUV without having to go to the oil pumps frequently. The Mercury Mariner Hybrid and the Ford Escape are definitely two of the best hybrid cars in the U.S. regardless of vehicle class.
Saturn Vue Green Line
The Saturn Vue Green Line has the same hybrid system as the Chevy Malibu Hybrid. The 2009 model presents a 50% increase in fuel efficiency compared to the previous model, thanks to the two-mode system that resembles Toyota’s technology standard for hybrid-powered engines. The new development from General Motors will allow this hybrid car to go 500 miles between fill-ups while maintaining the engine horsepower that this SUV is known for. The same technology will also be used in Dodge Durango Hybrid and Chrysler Aspen Hybrid.
|
