Hybrid Vehicles Guide

A hybrid vehicle has always been associated with a small, oddly shaped car with a horribly underpowered engine and a stratospherically high economy rating. As the technology begins to mature, however, manufacturers are becoming more prone to introducing it to different segments of the market. The upcoming Lexus GS 600h is a prime example of a sedan pushing the limits of conventional and hybrid technology; featuring over 430 horsepower, it will be the most powerful hybrid on the planet, dethroning the venerable Lexus GS 450h.

When it comes to SUVs, however, the hybrid market is just beginning to develop. Ford has released two strong entrants, the Escape and Mariner hybrids, and Saturn has introduced the phenomenal Vue Green Line. Already well established are the Lexus RX 400h and the Toyota Highlander Hybrid.

Economy

All of the major hybrid SUVs we mentioned earlier achieve similar mileage, with the rating hovering right around 29 miles per gallon. The Escape hybrid, in two wheel drive trim, achieves an average rating of 34 miles per gallon. The Mercury Mariner also leads the four wheel drive pack with an average consumption rating of 31 miles per gallon.

Top Pick: Ford Escape Hybrid. In two wheel drive trim, the Escape is capable of achieving a compact-car like 34 miles per gallon. It still achieves 31 miles per gallon in four wheel drive trim.

Versatility

Comparing storage capacity, overall range, towing rating, and power train options, it become difficult for us to determine a clear-cut winner. The vehicles that we felt confident taking off-road were actually subjected to some mild abuse on the trails, and of course, every SUV was loaded up with the wife, kids, and groceries.

After some serious city driving, as well as some dirt roads, we realized that a couple of these SUVs weren’t up to the task of off-roading. The Escape and Mariner fell short, as did the Vue Green Line. The Toyota Highlander and Lexus RX 400h both held up well, having enough power and weight to run with the best of them.

Top Pick: Toyota Highlander and the Lexus RX 400h. Great interior and storage space; lots of power for the trails; capable four wheel drive system.

Overall Value

This is always the hardest segment to judge, as each vehicle brought its own character and traits to the table. The Escape and Mariner hybrids both got great mileage, yet were comfortable to drive and were homey and attractive. The Vue Green Line was the most inexpensive hybrid SUV tested, though you’d never know from its confident road manners and excellent characteristics. The Highlander and RX 400h were both more powerful and luxurious, though at a premium over all of the other SUVs tested.

However, when it comes down to value, we considered much more than the price. We looked at the fit and finish of each vehicle, carefully trying to point out defects of mistakes. We examined the economy and power, as well as the usability of the vehicle on the street.

Top Pick: Saturn Vue Green Line. No matter how you slice it, this hybrid SUV is a shoe-in for this spot. Besides being the least expensive, the Vue Green Line features a surprisingly capable power train and a comfortable interior. The vehicle is well equipped, and even includes an auxiliary input on all trim levels, making connecting your iPod easy.