Hybrid SUVs
While SUV sales have declined in recent years, SUVs continue to be a popular vehicle choice for many consumers. Whether it's the safety, passenger capacity or towing capabilities that SUVs provide, some consumers simply won't buy anything but an SUV.
Fortunately, there is a very good selection of hybrid SUVs. From small, fuel efficient hybrids, to large hybrids with significant towing capabilities or luxury hybrids, a plethora of hybrid SUV choices exist today.
Fortunately for you, the hybrid SUV segment offers a
number of choices for hybrid buyers. However, if you want the best hybrid SUV based on fuel economy, greenhouse gas emissions and ‘forced’ options, the Union of Concerned Scientists recommends the Cadillac Escalade hybrid, Lexus RX 450h hybrid, and the Toyota Highlander hybrid.
In terms of fuel economy, the Ford
Escape hybrid is the most fuel efficient hybrid SUV
currently available, including its cousin, the Mazda
Tribute hybrid.
Then comes the Toyota
Highlander hybrid, offering less fuel
efficiency than the Escape hybrid, but more seating and more
power. In fact, some Highlanders offer 3rd row seating
that can accommodate up to 7 passengers.
Still, it is important
to remember that the Highlander hybrid was not built
purely for fuel economy. This is a hybrid SUV that
provides V6 performance, but with better economy. So, if a fuel
efficient SUV is critical, then the Highlander hybrid
might not be your best pick.
But you need to tow
If you want to buy a hybrid, but you know that towing capabilities are critical, then neither the Escape nor Highlander hybrids are going to workl, but there are still plenty of other hybrid options.
GM offers both the Chevy
Tahoe hybrid and the GMC
Yukon hybrid, each offering the ability to tow up 6,200 pounds. These GM hybrids simply offer full SUV
functionality, but with hybrid fuel economy. For example, in
city driving these hybrid SUVs can achieve 50 percent
better fuel economy than their conventional cousins.
And, while this isn't the luxury hybrid SUV section, if both luxury and towing capabilities are required, the Cadillac Escalade hybrid is a great choice.
Not enough towing power? Don't like the styling of GM's hybrids? Too big and bulky?
Not to worry, the Volkswagen Touareg hybrid can tow up to 7,700 pounds, but in a more compact SUV package.
Luxury hybrid SUVs
Of course, last but not least is the luxury SUV fan.
If you have to have a luxury SUV, but you want to be as green as possible, then the Lexus RX 450 hybrid offers the cleanest, most fuel efficient option.
Not a Lexus fan?
How about the BMW ActiveHybrid X6 or the Mercedes ML450 hybrid?
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