2011 Ford Fusion Hybrid

Ford Fusion Hybrid

The Ford Fusion Hybrid has the typical hybrid performance characteristics, at least on paper. The Fusion Hybrid is one of our favorite gas-electric vehicles to drive. Better yet, Fords innovative graphics and gauges egg drivers on to greener driving behavior. The Ford Fusion Hybrid gets its own 17-inch wheels, a standard 110-volt power outlet and recycled-material seats.

For 2011, the Ford Fusion Hybrid sees only a few minor standard equipment changes. Unlike hybrids that have gone before, the 2011 Fusion Hybrid is rewarding to drive thanks to relatively brisk acceleration and crisp handling.

Of course, the fundamental appeal of a hybrid car still remains within this Ford sedan. The EPA estimates youll get 41 mpg city and 36 mpg highway, which is considerably better than the numbers posted by other midsize hybrid sedans that compete with the Fusion Hybrid.

As with the regular Fusion, the hybrid also boasts a spacious, well-finished cabin loaded with thoughtful luxury features. Highlights of the latter include dual-zone automatic climate control, rear park assist and Fords superb Sync multimedia voice control system. As hybrid sedans go, the 2011 Ford Fusion Hybrid is certainly one of our favorites. The only other hybrid sedan wed recommend checking out is the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. The 2011 Ford Fusion Hybrid is a midsize sedan available in a single trim level.

Standard equipment includes 17-inch alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, blind-spot mirrors, the My Key system (limits top speed and audio volume), a keyless-entry security code pad, automatic headlamps, fog lamps, cruise control, dual-zone automatic climate control, eight-way driver and six-way passenger power seats, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, eco-friendly cloth upholstery, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a specialized gauge cluster, the Ford Sync electronics interface (includes voice commands, Bluetooth and iPod control) and a six-speaker sound system with CD/MP3 player, satellite radio and steering-wheel controls.

The Ford Fusion Hybrid utilizes a 2.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine that produces 156 hp and 136 lb-ft of torque. Fuel economy is an EPA-estimated 41 mpg city/36 mpg highway and 39 mpg combined.

Safety
The 2011 Ford Fusion Hybrid comes standard with antilock disc brakes, stability and traction control, front-seat side airbags, side curtain airbags, My Key and rear parking sensors. A blind-spot warning system and rearview camera are optional. At the Edmunds test track, the Fusion Hybrid stopped from 60 mph in 126 feet, which is a short distance for a hybrid car on low-rolling-resistance tires.

The Ford Fusion Hybrid also earned four stars for rear side protection. The Fusion Hybrids high-quality cabin features abundant soft-touch materials, and the overall look is austere but attractive. The Fusion Hybrid gets a distinctive gauge cluster dubbed Smart Gauge, featuring a pair of color display screens flanking a traditional speedometer. Interior storage space is adequate, although trunk capacity is compromised by the cars battery pack, which is typical of hybrid sedans.

Driving Impressions
Other than the Altima Hybrid (which is only sold in 11 states) and the new Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, the 2011 Ford Fusion Hybrid is the most engaging hybrid sedan to drive; its a car, not just a transportation pod.

The 2011 Ford Fusion carries over largely unchanged from the 2010 Fusion, which underwent revisions inside and out and added the 41-mpg Ford Fusion Hybrid. Should you wait for the 2012 Ford Fusion or buy a 2011 Fusion? Buying a 2012 Fusion, however, places you just one model-year away from the anticipated all-new 2013 Fusion. Styling: There are no styling changes for the 2011 Ford Fusion. On 2011 Ford Fusion Hybrid models, the instrument cluster is interactive, animated by Ford’s EcoGuide. The 2011 Fusion SE and SEL models are again available with an optional 240-horsepower 3.0-liter V-6. All-wheel drive (AWD) is available on the 2011 Fusion SEL V-6 and Fusion Sport models. The 2011 Ford Fusion Hybrid again pairs the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor to generate the equivalent of 191 horsepower.

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Chrysler planning hybrid minivan for 2013

Chrysler, the automaker at the forefront of the minivan movement back in the 1980s, is seriously rethinking its family-hauler business. As we reported earlier, Chrysler will be scrapping one of its two minivan twins by 2013, making room for a smaller micro-van to launch within the next few years – a vehicle that will compete with the likes of the Ford C-Max and Mazda5. Now, Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne has reportedly confirmed that a hybrid version of the company’s next-generation minivan is on its way, scheduled to debut by 2013.

The powertrain slated for use in the hybrid minivan will use the same powertrain technology that we’ll be seeing in the gasoline-electric version of the Chrysler 300 sedan, also set to launch in 2013. The new van will be built at the automaker’s Windsor Assembly Plant in Canada – the factory where both the Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan are built today.

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Suzuki Kizashi Revealed – Hybrid Model to Follow Mega Gallery with 100 High Res Photos

The production version of the Suzuki Kizashi sedan was officially revealed today in a special launch event in Detroit. Built at Suzuki’s new manufacturing plant in Sagara, Japan, the Kizashi will serve as the company’s flagship model when it arrives in North American showrooms this winter. Available in both front- and all-wheel drive versions, Suzuki’s Mazda6 and VW Passat rival will initially be offered with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine linked to either a 6-speed manual transmission or optionally, a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

While the Japanese automaker did not disclose any output figures for the base four-cylinder engine, Suzuki did reveal that other powertrain options are also under development for the Kizashi including a fuel efficient hybrid version that will be added to the lineup in the very near future.

Built on a brand-new platform, the Kizashi features MacPherson struts up front and a multi-link setup in the back with Suzuki supporting that the sedan will offer drivers “a dynamic and exhilarating driving experience”.

An Electronic Stability Program and anti-lock braking system with electronic brake-force distribution as well as the Suzuki-developed synergetic vehicle dynamic control system that assists drivers control will be offered as standard on the Kizashi.

Measuring in at 183.1 in. (4,650 mm) long, 71.7 in. (1,820 mm) wide and 58.3 in. (1,480 mm) high with a wheelbase of 106.3 in. (2,700mm), the Kizashi is roughly the same size as the latest generation Audi A4 Sedan.

Despite the fact that the Kizashi originated from the Concept Kizashi series introduced over the last two years, the production model’s styling is far less dramatic, which is a shame as the concept study featured an extremely well executed design that received positive reactions from European and North American consumers alike.

As for the mid-size sedan’s interior, Suzuki’s designers crafted an elegant looking dashboard that features an Alfa Romeo-esque instrument panel with two deeply set gauges and an uncluttered center console.

More details as well as North American prices are expected to be released closer to the sedan’s sales launch in December. Suzuki has yet to announce when the Kizashi will arrive in other international markets.

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2011 GMC Yukon Hybrid SUV

The 2011 GMC Yukon Hybrid SUV delivers relatively good gas mileage and solid towing and hauling performance in a hybrid vehicle. A full-size SUV that seats eight passengers comfortably, the Yukon delivers solid comfort for drivers and passengers and incorporates a wide range of standard and optional features to make the ride even more pleasant.

Cruise control, power accessories, rear parking camera, sensors, and power adjustable driver’s seat ensures that the GMC Yukon hybrid is as much fun to drive as it is practical to own The 2011 Yukon Hybrid offers quiet performance in a large-sized SUV. Hefty towing power and payload capacity are the primary reasons to choose the Yukon Hybrid over competing crossover SUVs that may offer comparable gas mileage and improved handling due to their lower curb weight.

The 2011 GMC Yukon Hybrid looks much like a standard Yukon and allows about the same level of performance and comfort. From the outside—or even inside the cabin—theres very little to distinguish the GMC Yukon Hybrid models from the standard Yukon ones, save for some slight aerodynamic modifications and subtle budging. That said, theres a lot thats different about the Yukon Hybrid. There are few compromises in the Hybrid. While the price premium for the GMC Yukon Hybrid over the standard versions of the Yukon is quite steep, it nearly evens out when youre comparing Denali versions.

The addition of hybrid technology to the Yukon Denali makes the Yukon Denali Hybrid the flagship model in the GMC lineup. GMC says theYukon Hybrid can achieve up to 21 mpg around town, along with 22 mpg on the highway. Luxury upgrades for the Denali Hybrid include new 22-inch alloy wheels, heated and cooled 12-way power (front) leather seats and otherwise upgraded interior accommodations. The GMC Yukon Hybrid retails for $59,185 for a two-wheel-drive variant and $62,030 for the all-wheel-drive model, including the $950 destination charge.

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2010 Lexus LS Hybrid Awards

Notable examples of awards received by the Lexus LS include World Car of the Year (2007 WCOTY), International Car of the Year (2007 ICOTY), Japan Car of the Year (2006–2007 JCOTY),Canadian Car of the Year, Wheels Car of the Year, and Top Gear Limousine of the Year.

The Lexus LS has been the highest-rated luxury car in Automobile Magazine, Car and Driver, Consumer Reports, Fleet World, and MotorWeek. In J.D. Powers long-term Vehicle Dependability Study, the Lexus LS has been the most reliable car for fifteen consecutive years,the most for any manufacturer, and Consumer Reports has ranked the sedan as the most reliable vehicle tested.

Safety awards include Auto Bilds 2007 Innovation Prize for the LS 460 pre-collision system,consecutive first place rankings in the What Car? Security Supertest, and Kiplingers "Best in Safety for Cars $40,000 and Over". Technical honors range from Wards 10 Best Engines, to Edmunds.coms "Best Sound System in Cars Over $30,000", and the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) 2007 "Best Engineered Vehicle" award.


2010 Lexus LS Hybrid


2010 Lexus LS Hybrid


2010 Lexus LS Hybrid


2010 Lexus LS Hybrid


2010 Lexus LS Hybrid


2010 Lexus LS Hybrid


2010 Lexus LS Hybrid


2010 Lexus LS Hybrid


2010 Lexus LS Hybrid


2010 Lexus LS Hybrid


2010 Lexus LS Hybrid


2010 Lexus LS Hybrid


2010 Lexus LS Hybrid


2010 Lexus LS Hybrid


2010 Lexus LS Hybrid

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Toyota Recalls Hybrid SUVs

Hybrid SUV

The recall involves about 45,000 Toyota Highlander hybrids and 36,700 Lexus RX 400h hybrids from the 2006 and 2007 model years. Toyota Motor Corp. said today it will recall about 82,200 hybrid sport-utility vehicles to correct an electronic problem that could cause the vehicles to lose power or stop running completely.

At the root of the problem is what Toyota calls the Intelligent Power Module, which is part of the vehicles’ hybrid gasoline-electric power systems. The module has a control board with transistors. In most cases the vehicles will enter fail-safe driving mode, a condition of reduced power under which the cars can still be driven short distances. Owners may contact the car maker at www.toyota.com/recall or 800-331-4331 for the Toyota brand, or www.lexus.com/recall, or 800-255-3987 for Lexus.

If the fuse blows, the hybrid system will stop and the vehicle will coast to a stop. The owners of the effected vehicles will be notified of the recall by first class mail in mid-July, 2011

The car giant said the recall will involve Highlander and Lexus-brand hybrid SUVs from its 2006 and 2007 lines. Wednesdays recall involves about 45,500 Highlander Hybrid and 36,700 Lexus Rx 400h vehicles, the companys U.S. subsidiary said in a news release.

Toyota said the affected vehicles hybrid system has a computer board with inadequate soldering that could be damaged during high-load driving. Saab Automobile, which halted production and stopped paying wages because of a cash shortage, paid its workers the overdue salaries Wednesday and is targeting an assembly restart in two weeks. Swedish Automobile, Saabs Dutch owner, jumped as much as 58% in Amsterdam trading.

Westport Innovations, which develops natural gas engines for heavy-duty vehicles, said Tuesday that it has agreed on a deal with automaker General Motors to help develop natural gas engine technology.

The companies said they will work together to develop natural gas engine controls, emissions and performance strategies. The Canadian company employs 15 people in Farmington Hills and plans to add more people and facilities as demand grows for natural gas-powered, alternative-fuel vehicles.

"The city is excited about that prospect," said Dave Hicks, Moraine city manager. Renault and its alliance partner Nissan aim to reach an agreement next month to assume control of AvtoVAZ, Russias biggest carmaker, two people familiar with the matter said. The Togliatti-based manufacturer dominates the Russian car market with its Lada brand.

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2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Reviews

2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid

The 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. Starting at about $26,000, the Sonata Hybrid costs less than the Ford Fusion Hybrid, Toyota Camry Hybrid, and Nissan Altima Hybrid.

The Sonata has a lower coefficient of drag than its competition, at 0.25 Cd versus the Camry Hybrids 0.27 Cd and the Fusion Hybrids 0.33 Cd.



Inside, all Sonata Hybrids get a digital readout between twin analog gauges that shows hybrid performance and trip computer information. Mileage is rated at 35/40 mpg city/highway, which outdoes the 2011 Camry Hybrids 31/35 mpg rating and bests the Fusion Hybrid in highway mileage; the Ford is rated 41/36 mpg.



The Hyundai Sonata Hybrid has 10.7 cubic feet of trunk space, while the base four-cylinder model has 16.4 cubic feet. The Sonata Hybrids six-speed automatic transmission is also a hybrid first. Hybrids typically use continuously variable automatic transmissions to maximize fuel efficiency. When the Sonata Hybrid isnt in that fuel-sipping mode, shifts are crisp and acceleration is strong. Before hybrid buyers scoff at these seemingly low figures, Ill say that these numbers should be considered the bottom of the Sonata Hybrids mileage spectrum.



That year’s Hyundai Sonata automatic managed fuel economy ratings of only 19/27 MPG from the EPA (2008+ system), well below the 21/31 achieved by the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry. The 2011 Sonata does far better: 22/35. But the glory, of course, goes to hybrids, and so the Sonata will soon be available in hybrid form. Is Toyota’s hybrid leadership in danger?



By arriving late to the hybrid party, Hyundai had ample opportunity to learn from others’ failures. The Sonata Hybrid’s engine also receives one substantial modification. By declutching the engine, the Sonata Hybrid can (allegedly) cruise up to 62 MPH on electric power alone.

Partly as a result the Sonata Hybrid weighs only 3,457 pounds, over 200 less than the Camry and Fusion. Fuel economy. When the 274-horsepower Sonata 2.0T achieved the same. Drive the Sonata Hybrid aggressively, and suburban fuel economy falls below 20. A Ford Fusion Hybrid still managed 27 when subjected to my lead foot.



Taken by itself, the 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid is a very good, even excellent car. Pricing for the Hybrid hasn’t yet been announced.

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2012 Lexus LF Gh hybrid concept

Lexus LF-Gh at the auto show concept in New York. All agreed that this is a model of the Lexus GS in the future, with hybrid concept.

GS-F sedan is probably not the same as the Lexus LFA V10 552 hp, 4.8 liter. It is estimated that production costs far greater half the price of LFA. The answer is most fitting for the engine capacity is 5.0 liter 416 hp V8 in the IS-F.

Lexus is not focused on performance, as the IS-F luxury division of Toyota is still necessary in addition to the performance of the car. This Japanese manufacturer chose not to view a preview version of the 2012 GS based on performance. Instead, the LF-Gh hybrid concept will be shown in New York.

With the new concept, Lexus trying to redefine what they call the L series, the design philosophy of existing luxury brands since 2001. LED lamps are unique and independent L-shaped LEDs create a new hybrid sedan face. Grill depam appear with wide model and seemed frightening with the help of the dark glass windows.

"Although only a concept, the LF-Gh we hope will resonate with customers around the world. It communicates our intention to once again promote the idea of a Lexus luxury face in the coming years," said General Manager Lexus division designs, Kengo Matsumoto.

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Hypermiling Hyundai Sonata Hybrid crosses America in under two tanks

You’ve got to hand it to Wayne Gerdes. He knows how to go the distance in production passenger cars on very little gasoline. In April of 2009, he worked with a team to go 1,445 miles in a Ford Fusion Hybrid on a single tank of gas*. In June of 2010, he went 1,065 miles in a non-hybrid 2011 Hyundai Sonata. His most recent trip was in a Sonata Hybrid, which he drove 2,269.3 miles from San Diego, CA to Jekyll Island, GA on less than two tanks of fuel – a claimed average of 59.58 miles per gallon.

That’s mighty impressive, but for those of us who have been following Gerdes’ recent hypermiling drives, the obvious question is, why was he able to get 66.285 mpg in the regular, gas-powered non-turbo Sonata when the hybrid “only” got 59.59 mpg? (and Fusion Hybrid managed 81.5 mpg.) In part, this can be explained because the trip in the regular Sonata took place in the summer from Chicago to New York, while the hybrid ride was a winter time trek through the mountains – and it was over twice the distance.

In any case, Gerdes has once again showed that it’s quite possible to handily beat the fuel efficiency ratings on a car’s window sticker. In this case, the EPA thinks you will get 40 mpg on the highway, but clearly a lot is left on the table for those whose sole goal is to eke out every last drop of gas.

Just as importantly, we’re not sure if Gerdes and his compatriots employed some of the more radical and dangerous hypermiling staples (drafting semi trucks for lower drag, etc.), but we’ve got a call in to Wayne to learn more about his techniques. In any case, a short video of the Sonata’s mpg display after the first tank is available after the jump.

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2012 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Review

Summary

toyota highlander hybrid

Seen as the Highlander SUV and 3rd row seats a bit cramped for adults - but if you are including children, clan, they must fit properly. Toyota Highlander Hybrid Highlander is based on the popular, gasoline-electric engine boasts a more environmentally friendly hybrid that produces very good fuel economy and lower emissions.

Exterior
Toyota makes it easy to distinguish between the Highlander Hybrid model by adding a unique grille and bumper redesigned with (and arranged vertically) integrated fog lamps, body colored rocker panels, and covered with a blue light and taillight lenses. Chrome accents adorn the rocker panels, and cut the base and SE has 17-inch alloy wheels. Highlander SE is also equipped with fog lamps, glass hatch that opens separately from the lift gate, and black roof rails. The chrome Limited trim level adds 19-inch wheels and roof rails.

Interior
the third row seat is standard, and it folds into the floor 50/50 split. The second row bench seat has a removable chamber that stows in a compartment under the front seat center console. Without it, the second row seats convert into two captains along the center aisle or center console (also removable). Both seats can recline and adjust themselves to the front and rear, and passenger-side seat has a walk-in feature for easier access the third row.

Performance
A 3.5-liter V-6 drivetrain base 2012 Highlander Hybrids. With the help of electric motors, Highlander Hybrid makes 280 hp combined. Equipped with a standard all-wheel drive, hybrid using an electric motor for extra power the rear wheels and driveshaft coupling unusual in almost all-wheel-drive models. Highlander Hybrid can cruise at a slow speed electric power alone. A panel button allows the driver to maximize EV threshold for electric only propulsion, given a sufficiently charge the battery.

safety
Standard safety features include anti-lock brakes with brake assist, electronic vehicle stability and traction control systems, control anti-whiplash active front head, monitor, rearview camera, front side impact airbags, driver knee airbags and overhead curtain airbags for all rows. Hybrid-related components are backed by, 8-year/100 000 mile warranty.

Competitor’s
competitors include the Chevrolet Traverse, Ford Explorer and Honda Pilot. With less competition for buyers who want an SUV 7 passengers also get great mileage. For example the popular Chevy Traverse is rated at 16 mpg city/23 mpg hwy. Honda Pilot gets closer to 18/25. Even the hybrid version of Escalade, Tahoe and Yukon only manage 20 and 23.

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Hyundai I30 Plug in Hybrid Toyota Prius Ready to Challenge

Hyundai recently unstoppable. Evidently, after removing the slick-looking brand-new products, Hyundai is now coming out of environmentally friendly technologies. Channeled via seriousness of their segment model B, Hyundai I30 plug in hybrids.

Although there is still no information about the detailed specifications of the car, or where the car hatchback is offered, but obviously if the Hyundai I30 plug in hybrid is ready to threaten Toyota Prius Plug in version 2012.

Because, in addition to relying on the body of the new Hyundai I30 was introduced at the Frankfurt Motor Show 2011 last month, cars that combine gasoline engines and electric motors are also ready to debut late next year.

Not only are that, reportedly I30 plug in hybrids also ready to be a hybrid car with a cheaper price than the Prius

Hyundai I30 itself rely on the standard version of Hyundais global body design, fluidic sculpture, and has two petrol engines, 1.6-liter GDI (140 hp) and 1.4-liter (100 hp). But there has been no explanation of where the machine will be used on the I30 variant will plug in hybrid.

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