The 2012 Hybrid SUV – Three Of The Top Models
This is an exciting year in the hybrid vehicle market as more and more models become available. If you are an SUV kind of person, the 2012 Hybrid SUV models will not disappoint.
So why choose a hybrid SUV over a conventional model? Hybrid SUVs combine the great features of SUVs along with a duel power source. They operate with both gas engine and electric motor making for a highly efficient driving experience.
The 2012 Hybrid SUV models are high end vehicles that provide fuel efficiency far surpassing what a conventional SUV can offer. Plus, along with better fuel economy, hybrids have lower emission levels.
Let’s compare three of the top Hybrid SUVs of 2012. These three represent a good cross-section of the available SUV hybrids.
As you might expect, the major drawback to any 2012 Hybrid SUV is the cost. You’ll need to put quite a few miles on to recover this additional cost, especially for larger size models.
As far as hybrid SUVs are concerned, there’s no denying the appeal of the 2012 Ford Escape Hybrid. The gas powered model has traditionally been the best selling SUV manufactured by Ford. With the introduction of the hybrid version of the Escape, consumers have even more options.
Ford Escape Hybrid
The Ford Escape Hybrid version is a smaller SUV which seats five passengers comfortably and has cargo space of about 66 cubic feet.
The Escape comes with a 2.5 liter, 4 cylinder gas powered engine which operates along with an electric motor. You can travel at speeds of up to 44 mph powered by the electric motor alone, for limited distances. At higher speeds or over longer distances, the gas motor kicks in to supplement the electric motor.
Where the Hybrid Escape comes out ahead is in fuel efficiency. And it does that well compared to other hybrid SUVs. Coming in at 34 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway, this is the most fuel efficient SUV in its class
The suggested retail price for a base model is around $30,500 making it possibly the most affordable hybrid SUV on the market.
The Toyota Highlander Hybrid has been on the market for seven years. It’s certainly earned its reputation as the most popular of the mid-sized SUVs. The 2012 Toyota Highlander Hybrid should have no trouble maintaining that popularity.
Toyota Highlander Hybrid
Although rated as a seven seat SUV, the third row seats do tend to be on the small size. Adults may find them a bit cramped for real comfort. But by limiting the size, the Highlander Hybrid is able to achieve great fuel economy.
It’s rated at 28 mpg for both highway and city driving, which is even better than earlier models and great for an SUV of this size.
Credit goes to the 3.5 liter V6 engine combined with 2 electric motors. The Highlander can run for up to 1 mile entirely on electric power at low speeds, making it ideal for use in stop-and-go city driving.
Although the Highlander Hybrid SUV is an all-wheel drive vehicle, it’s not suitable for off-roading which may disappoint if you’re expecting the 4-wheel drive experience. The trade-off though comes in a smoother ride.
The cost of the base model which starts at just over $38,000 is good value for this 2012 Hybrid SUV.
If you’re looking for an SUV heavy enough to do some towing, the 2012 GMC Yukon Hybrid is the one for you. The Yukon is a full-sized SUV with a roomy seating capacity of 8. Cargo space of about 110 cubic feet is included to provide lots of room for just about anything you want to bring along.
GMC Yukon Hybrid
The Yukon Hybrid is powered by a 6.0L Vortec V8 engine along with an electric motor. Even with a V8 engine, the Yukon gets an impressive 20 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway.
This kind of fuel efficiency is achieved with an engine that’s designed to conserve fuel whenever possible. If less power is needed while you’re on the road, smart technology shuts down four of the eight cylinders.
This 2012 Hybrid SUV has optional 4 wheel drive available if you’d like to do some of-roading,
Although pricier than the Escape or Highlander, with a base price of about $52,000, the Yukon provides good value for what you’re getting.
Discerning consumers will be hard pressed to find a better alternative than the 2012 Hybrid SUV models. By combining fuel efficiency with the many features loved by SUV enthusiasts, you have a winning combination.
Related posts:
- Review Of The Top 2012 SUV Models
- Review Of Four Top Rated 8 Passenger SUV Models
- The 4×4 SUV – Best Models For 2012
- Hybrid SUV – Review of the Top Sellers
- Review Of Some Of The Top 2011 Cars With The Best Gas Mileage