 |
Wanting the best mileage possible is a primary goal of many drivers. Hybrid cars are attractive options for purchasers seeking to lessen the impact of fuel costs on their household budgets. Hybrid vehicles use two or more discrete sources of power; the most common combination of power sources is an internal combustion engine coupled with at least one electric motor. Besides reducing fuel costs and consumption, some consumers who select hybrid cars do so in part because of their perceived lesser impact on the environment and air quality.
With new hybrid models coming to market all the time, savvy consumers are ferreting out information that will help them compare options, performance, body style and safety data easily, so they are ready to make informed purchase decisions. In addition to government agencies and the vehicle manufacturers themselves, some reputable voices in the automotive publishing world have created electronic resources so that customers have a reliable source of information that they can trust. Learning more about hybrid cars has become much simpler, thanks in part to the efforts of these companies.
2012 Best Hybrid Cars: FuelEconomy.gov
This website is maintained as a joint effort of the Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency. In addition to making available a plethora of tips and strategies for drivers to maximize the performance of their vehicles, this portal offers consumers detailed facts about mileage standards and vehicle performance estimates among many other features. FuelEconomy.gov’s research tools are easy to use, as the list below of 2012 top hybrid cars shows. Additionally, consumers have the ability to search through past years’ EPA rankings to compare a vehicle’s performance improvement over time, which is a great way to compare new hybrid models against more established brands.
The Top 10 EPA-Rated Vehicles are ranked by their combined rating (weighted 55% city, 45% highway), then by their city rating. Vehicles of equal rank share the same position on the list. Including electric (EV) and plug-in hybrid electric (PHEV) vehicles, the 2012 Top Ten vehicles, in ascending order are: Toyota Camry Hybrid LE, with a combined MPG rating of 41; Honda Insight; Lexus CT 200h; Toyota Prius V; Honda Civic Hybrid; Toyota Prius; Chevrolet Volt; Azure Dynamics Transit Connect Wagon/Transit Connect Van; Nissan Leaf; and the Mitsubishi i-MiEV, topping out at a combined 112 MPG. The top 3 models are purely electric vehicles, while the remainder of the list is comprised of gas/electric hybrid cars. Compare statistics and learn more about hybrid cars and fuel economy topics at the website, http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/topten.jsp.
There is a also a page on the site that allows consumers to compare hybrid performance head-to-head, as well as one that has links to every manufacturer of hybrid vehicles in the U.S. Currently, there are nine manufacturers of hybrid cars. To see the former, visit this link: http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/hybrid_sbs_cars.shtml. For the latter, see http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/hybrid_links.shtml.
MotorTrend.com: Comparing Hybrid Cars
Consumers looking for a simple way to review and compare 37 different models of hybrid cars will enjoy the clean interface at MotorTrend.com. Vehicle buyers can select model year (2010, 2011 and 2012 data are available depending upon the make) to check year-over-year differences. Site editors have written up bullet points on engine performance and efficiency, along with average MSRP, fuel economy and mileage per gallon, body style and base engine. Consumers will also find links to free dealer price checks. MotorTrend.com does not make independent rankings, but instead provides complete specifications and details about each model. That way, consumers’ decisions aren’t swayed by an expert endorsement. Ranging in price from a high of $108,800 to a low of $15,455, there are hybrid cars to fit every need and budget. Learn more by visiting the website, at http://www.motortrend.com/new_cars/27/hybrid_cars/, or get started comparing models at this link: http://www.motortrend.com/new_cars/comparisons/.
Manufacturer Websites: Selling Top Hybrids
Chevrolet
Chevrolet has created a web space devoted to its 2012 Chevy Silverado Hybrid. Customers can choose color and options, and learn about the extensive safety features and performance specs of this great vehicle. Stop by the website to learn more, at http://www.chevrolet.com/silverado-hybrid-pickup-truck/.
Hyundai
Hyundai has a detailed website dedicated to its 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. Customers can browse a photo gallery, and learn about options for the interior, exterior, specs and trim, safety (as a 2011 IIHS Top Safety Pick), and performance. Pricing and packages let shoppers know exactly what it costs to build their dream hybrid. Visit the website for more details, http://www.hyundaiusa.com/sonata-hybrid/.
Toyota
Toyota has a well-established web presence for its 3rd-generation Prius. There are tabs on this page for Models & Pricing, Photos & Colors, Features & Specs, Options & Accessories, Compare Vehicles, Demos and Videos, Build Your Prius, and Shopping Tools. Intellichoice named the Prius 2011 Best Overall Value of the Year in its class. This site has links to other hybrid vehicles made by Toyota, so that consumers can browse vehicles large or small. See all of the options at the website, http://www.toyota.com/prius-hybrid/.
Lexus
Contrary to what many might believe, Lexus has a wide selection of hybrid vehicles currently on the market. Models range from the modestly priced CT Hybrid (starting at $29,120) all the way to the LS Hybrid (starting at $112,250). Customers can use the tools at the site to explore pricing and options, safety and security, warranty and protections, and service and maintenance. Other categories like interior, exterior, performance, and detailed specifications are also customizable based on the consumer’s needs and preferences. Shopping tools on the site include financial services such as understanding available programs and applying for credit; accessories; special offers; and a place to sign-up to receive news and communications from the manufacturer. There are also resources for owners, and search tools to help a consumer locate a pre-owned Lexus if desired. Browse all of the high-quality offerings at the Lexus website, http://www.lexus.com/hybrids/.
|
