Mercedes-Benz S400 Bluetec Hybrid

Mercedes-Benz S400 Bluetec Hybrid

Mercedes-Benz S400 Bluetec Hybrid - John Lamm, Road and Track
Large, luxurious sedans - a vehicle type synonymous with Mercedes-Benz - have not been historically the most fuel-efficient of vehicles. But that will soon change with the new Mercedes 4-door that bowed at the L.A. show, the S400 Bluetec Hybrid.
Expected to arrive in U.S. dealer showrooms in 2010, the S400 combines one of the German company's Bluetec V-6 diesel engines with a 20-horsepower electric motor for a hybrid drivetrain that offers "the performance of a V-8 with the fuel economy of a 4-cylinder," says the company. The marriage yields performance figures of 265 bhp and a full 465 lb.-ft. of torque and is said to help the Teutonic heavyweight earn an impressive 0-60-mph time of only 7.2 seconds - while attaining 40.5 mpg on the highway. What's more, the S400's diesel-hybrid drivetrain will be compliant with emissions regulations in all 50 states upon its rollout in a couple years' time.

2008 Saturn VUE Hybrid - Review

The 2008 Saturn VUE Hybrid, also commonly known as the Saturn VUE Green Line, is a 5 passenger midsize SUV that has been redesigned for the 2008 model year. The newly revamped version is much more attractively designed both inside and out and manages to achieve a commendable balance between safety, comfort and utility in a fuel efficient and environmentally friendly package.
Boasting the highest fuel economy of any midsize SUV on the highway as well as the lowest base model sticker price for its class, this hybrid is both economically and environmentally friendly. The hybrid engine consists of a combination of a gasoline powered 2.4 liter, 4 cylinder engine and an electric motor that together deliver 172 horsepower. The electric motor is recharged via regenerative braking and kicks in when the car is brought to a stop and during deceleration, thus saving fuel. In addition to having the best mpg ratings for a midsize hybrid SUV, the VUE Hybrid Green Line has also beat out some of the most popular hybrid sedans, despite its larger size, heavier weight and increased utility. Gas mileage is rated at 25 MPG in the city and a very impressive midsize SUV 32 miles per gallon on the highway and the base model starts at only just under $25,000.
The exterior has been redesigned for the 2008 model year to reflect European design elements that include a sweeping, more rounded and less angular profile and well positioned and attractive sporty side vents. The interior has also been redesigned and now features a much more refined visual appearance as well as a very comfortable seating and user friendly operational controls. In addition to being roomy enough for 5 adults, there is just a tiny bit less than 30 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seat. When the rear seat is folded down, cargo space increases to 56 cubic feet and there is an adjustable cargo net that rides in both upper and lower rails to secure possessions that are being transported. Although there is no third row option like some other midsize SUVs, rear passengers enjoy the luxury of reclining seats and extra comfy seats with a fold down center armrest with storage compartment. Storage is more than ample in the locking glove compartment up front, which is large enough to hold a lap top computer or pocketbook in addition to your owner's manual.
The ride is smooth and the vehicle handles well thanks to a well integrated McPherson strut suspension system and responsive steering. Like many mid size SUV's, although capable of mild off road experiences this SUV performs best on paved roads and during inclement weather. The 2008 Saturn VUE is well equipped, stylish and a very good value for the money, emphasizing the point that if you 'go green' you don't have to go broke too.

2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid - Review

The 2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid midsize SUV is completely redesigned for the new model year, boasting a wider, longer and more aggressively curvaceous stance. Also new this year is a new chassis that boasts improved Hybrid technology. Despite its larger dimensions and brisk acceleration, this is the most fuel-efficient seven-passenger vehicle on sale for 2008. An environmentally friendly V6 gasoline engine works in conjunction with three electric motors that have resulted in frugal midsize SUV EPA estimates of 27 miles per gallon in the city and 25 miles per gallon on the highway. Electric propulsion is used to a greater degree at slower speeds, which is why the Highlander Hybrid gets better mileage while driving in the city. It is estimated that battery replacement and disposal fees fot the Highlander Hybrid would run around $5000.The Base Model has seating for 5 occupants and is equipped with 17" alloy wheels and a comfortable, versatile interior featuring a multiple function display screen centrally located within the handsome wood grain trim. The display projects the images captured by the back-up camera as well as other information, including gas mileage. Versatility is optimized with the 40/20/40 second row bench seat featuring a remove and stow 'jump seat' in center section of the bench that can easily be removed and stored away creating 2 second row captains chairs and a pathway to the rear seat. The Base model also features a tilt/telescopic steering wheel, a CD/MP3/WMA-capable stereo system with auxiliary audio jack, and power windows, mirrors and door locks. Additional options for the Base model include a third row seat, dual zone automatic climate control in the front and the rear of the cabin. The Limited model has room for up to 7 passengers due to the standard 3rd row seat configuration. The Limited also features larger 19" wheels, power rear lift gate, leather wrapped steering wheel, power driver seat and an upgraded audio system that includes a 6 disc in dash CD changer. The Limited model is furthermore eligible for heated leather seats, a premium JBL audio system integrated with Bluetooth technology, a rear seat DVD player, navigation system and a sunroof.3 electric motors supplement the 3.3 liter V6 gasoline engine resulting in a sizable combined effort of 270 horsepower. Full time all wheel drive is facilitated by a continuously variable transmission and the incorporation of two separate electric motors driving the front and rear wheels. The electric motors are used to start the gas engine and fuel its nickel metal hydride battery pack, as well as provide additional and admirable driving force. In 'EV' driving mode, the vehicle will operate solely on electric power; however this is only economically useful and practical when the vehicle is traveling short distances at low speeds. Econ mode is more realistic a choice for daily travels that restrains throttle acceleration to increase fuel economy. Switching from one mode to the other during sluggish traffic jams is simple enough and operations are unrecognizable. What you will recognize is the fuel savings.The 2008 Toyota Highlander has a visually sophisticated and roomy interior. Cabin noise is minimal at best and the easy to operate fold flat 3rd row seat and 2nd row jump seat makes increases or reductions in passenger or cargo space quick and easy. Overall performance is strong, the ride is smooth and the handling capably delivers a smooth ride. The hybrid system operates virtually undetected, quietly saving the environment and saving you money at the same time. This may just be one of the easiest to drive earth friendly vehicles available today.