Acura ILX Hybrid

With the 2013 Acura ILX Hybrid, we celebrate two milestones. "ILX" is a brand-new nameplate for Honda's luxury division and it's also the first hybrid the Acura brand has ever offered. And while it shares much with its corporate cousin, the Honda Civic, the ILX Hybrid burst onto the scene with a smarter drivetrain, a more stylish exterior, and greater level of sophistication both in regards to its onboard tech and aesthetically enhanced interior. <br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcyDuHa_60O2WZSBpho_28uXgBO59CzfTMn8WQT1OD9kI3xFmD_qa9rvK4an0alAGKcJ4jI-hACYS9qseTX68_f7CiJHfGtCVq7QFGuS9hKzAYQ2CVreqQ8Sr2V1MFQaOahAa6h2FnMY8/s1600/acura-hybrid-ilx.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcyDuHa_60O2WZSBpho_28uXgBO59CzfTMn8WQT1OD9kI3xFmD_qa9rvK4an0alAGKcJ4jI-hACYS9qseTX68_f7CiJHfGtCVq7QFGuS9hKzAYQ2CVreqQ8Sr2V1MFQaOahAa6h2FnMY8/s400/acura-hybrid-ilx.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> <br /> <br /> Will Acura's newest baby become the luxury segment’s equivalent to the Honda Civic? Or will it suffer the same identity crisis many Acuras of late have undergone? <br /> Most automakers have turned to cramming their hybrid models with all the latest tech features (especially in the luxury segment) by default. Meaning, you don't get the option to opt out, you just automatically get to pay more for the hybrid drivetrain and all the extra goodies thrown in as "standard". Acura has driven down a slightly different road with the ILX, offering both a base hybrid model ($28,900) and an upgraded version that's equipped with a technology package ($34,000). Our review car had the tech package and sported a decent number of welcome features that certainly add up to make the 2013 ILX Hybrid a strong choice for drivers hoping to get a large serving of digital goodness to go along with that fuel-sipping, earth-saving drivetrain. <br /> <br /> Outside, there isn't much to distinguish the ILX Hybrid with the non-hybrid models save for two blue hybrid badges to the side and rear of the vehicle. Overall, the design is handsome if not a little unassuming. It's not as dramatic or refined as we'd come to expect from an entry-level luxury car but we'll take it all the same. And to be fair, it's not the weakest-looking model in Acura's lineup – that honor goes to the TSX's annoying mug. <br /> <br /> Unlike other hybrids, like the <a href="http://neohybridcars.blogspot.com/2013/05/toyota-prius-c.html">Toyota Prius</a> and even the Honda Civic Hybrid, the ILX is unable to operate on electricity alone; however it does employ a regenerative braking system that traps the kinetic energy created during braking and converts it to electricity in order to give the lithium-ion battery a little more zap. <br /> <br /> Apparently, Acura's designers are a lot braver than we are and while its sensitivity calibration is certainly not a dealbreaker, it does become a nuisance.

Acura ILX Hybrid

With the 2013 Acura ILX Hybrid, we celebrate two milestones. "ILX" is a brand-new nameplate for Honda's luxury division and it...

Read more »

With the 2013 Acura ILX Hybrid, we celebrate two milestones. "ILX" is a brand-new nameplate for Honda's luxury division and it's also the first hybrid the Acura brand has ever offered. And while it shares much with its corporate cousin, the Honda Civic, the ILX Hybrid burst onto the scene with a smarter drivetrain, a more stylish exterior, and greater level of sophistication both in regards to its onboard tech and aesthetically enhanced interior.

Will Acura's newest baby become the luxury segment’s equivalent to the Honda Civic? Or will it suffer the same identity crisis many Acuras of late have undergone?
Most automakers have turned to cramming their hybrid models with all the latest tech features (especially in the luxury segment) by default. Meaning, you don't get the option to opt out, you just automatically get to pay more for the hybrid drivetrain and all the extra goodies thrown in as "standard". Acura has driven down a slightly different road with the ILX, offering both a base hybrid model ($28,900) and an upgraded version that's equipped with a technology package ($34,000). Our review car had the tech package and sported a decent number of welcome features that certainly add up to make the 2013 ILX Hybrid a strong choice for drivers hoping to get a large serving of digital goodness to go along with that fuel-sipping, earth-saving drivetrain.

Outside, there isn't much to distinguish the ILX Hybrid with the non-hybrid models save for two blue hybrid badges to the side and rear of the vehicle. Overall, the design is handsome if not a little unassuming. It's not as dramatic or refined as we'd come to expect from an entry-level luxury car but we'll take it all the same. And to be fair, it's not the weakest-looking model in Acura's lineup – that honor goes to the TSX's annoying mug.

Unlike other hybrids, like the Toyota Prius and even the Honda Civic Hybrid, the ILX is unable to operate on electricity alone; however it does employ a regenerative braking system that traps the kinetic energy created during braking and converts it to electricity in order to give the lithium-ion battery a little more zap.

Apparently, Acura's designers are a lot braver than we are and while its sensitivity calibration is certainly not a dealbreaker, it does become a nuisance.

Car Choice: Acura ILX Hybrid
Written By: Ava Olivia 8:06 AM
Popularity: 5
Rating: 168 reviews

Toyota Auris Hybrid

<div style="background-color: white; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; border-collapse: collapse; color: #333333; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 13px; padding: 0px;"> It's almost a year since the mother of all traffic jams entered the record books – Beijing's 60-mile, 12-day monster. It spawned its own micro economy with food sellers and laundry workers plying the lines of trapped drivers, while the rich abandoned their cars and paid others to sit in their static vehicles.</div> <div style="background-color: white; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; border-collapse: collapse; color: #333333; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 13px; padding: 0px;"> The jam put into context the paltry three-hour tailback I was stuck in over the bank holiday. We lay on the grass embankment and chatted to our new neighbours about the Ohio kidnappings, the Padstow boat tragedy – and about the sheer waste of resources a standstill jam causes.</div> <div style="background-color: white; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; border-collapse: collapse; color: #333333; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 13px; padding: 0px;"> Which is why, in some small way, I was glad the car I was stuck in was <a href="http://neohybridcars.blogspot.com/2013/06/toyota-auris-hybrid.html">Toyota's Auris Hybrid</a> – an eco car that does almost 75 miles to a gallon with just a nostril caressing whiff of emissions – 85g/km. The ethically pure Auris is as clean as Jay Rayner's dinner plate…</div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-h6X55Gsub5YOznfQ6Dofku8xX7eMmqn9rVC7tkA53D4ZdH0D9OyzyKkDn1eIpK4CRp9cqrliF_XmtSU9aCu08JEnROkKJ_71JVRvtnm_KxwymTw1hdrTVHAaRpGB-mDVnJuu8U9oUEY/s1600/Toyota-Auris-Hybrid-010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-h6X55Gsub5YOznfQ6Dofku8xX7eMmqn9rVC7tkA53D4ZdH0D9OyzyKkDn1eIpK4CRp9cqrliF_XmtSU9aCu08JEnROkKJ_71JVRvtnm_KxwymTw1hdrTVHAaRpGB-mDVnJuu8U9oUEY/s400/Toyota-Auris-Hybrid-010.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> <div style="background-color: white; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; border-collapse: collapse; color: #333333; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 13px; padding: 0px;"> <br /></div> <div style="background-color: white; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; border-collapse: collapse; color: #333333; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 13px; padding: 0px;"> The notion of a green car will, of course, always be oxymoronic. Like false truths, turkey ham or Arsenal trophies, some pairings seem poles apart. But manufacturers are working hard at pulling the opposing ends together. And with its Auris hybrid, Toyota is doing better than most. Thanks to aerodynamic improvements, weight saving, engine readjustments and technological cunning, this Toyota has beaten off the likes of Volkswagen's Golf Bluemotion and BMW's i3 electric supermini to claim the title of Green Car of the Year 2013.</div> <div style="background-color: white; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; border-collapse: collapse; color: #333333; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 13px; padding: 0px;"> Hybrids, electrics and alternatively fuelled cars have all been hailed as the solution to our motoring ails, but they tend to be over expensive, over complicated and, frankly, over-rated. They're ordinary cars that have been forced into a new template in a vain attempt to capture the green pound. They feel heavy, fragile and unreliable. But they're getting there, and this new Auris is another step forward.</div> <div style="background-color: white; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; border-collapse: collapse; color: #333333; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 13px; padding: 0px;"> With its 1,798cc, four-cylinder petrol engine plus two electric motor generators, this flagship model is fun, responsive, clever, laughingly easy to control and strikingly good looking. It's a hybrid car I'd happily own. Not because it feels like the latest and best of the current crop, but because it feels like the first of the next.</div> <div style="background-color: white; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; border-collapse: collapse; color: #333333; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 13px; padding: 0px;"> <br /></div> <div style="background-color: white; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; border-collapse: collapse; color: #333333; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 13px; padding: 0px;"> <strong style="background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Price from £21,745</strong><br style="background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><strong style="background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">MPG up to 74.3</strong><br style="background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><strong style="background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; border-collapse: collapse; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Top speed up to 112mph</strong></div>

Toyota Auris Hybrid

It's almost a year since the mother of all traffic jams entered the record books – Beijing's 60-mile, 12-day monster. It spawned it...

Read more »

It's almost a year since the mother of all traffic jams entered the record books – Beijing's 60-mile, 12-day monster. It spawned its own micro economy with food sellers and laundry workers plying the lines of trapped drivers, while the rich abandoned their cars and paid others to sit in their static vehicles.

The jam put into context the paltry three-hour tailback I was stuck in over the bank holiday. We lay on the grass embankment and chatted to our new neighbours about the Ohio kidnappings, the Padstow boat tragedy – and about the sheer waste of resources a standstill jam causes.

Which is why, in some small way, I was glad the car I was stuck in was Toyota's Auris Hybrid – an eco car that does almost 75 miles to a gallon with just a nostril caressing whiff of emissions – 85g/km. The ethically pure Auris is as clean as Jay Rayner's dinner plate…

The notion of a green car will, of course, always be oxymoronic. Like false truths, turkey ham or Arsenal trophies, some pairings seem poles apart. But manufacturers are working hard at pulling the opposing ends together. And with its Auris hybrid, Toyota is doing better than most. Thanks to aerodynamic improvements, weight saving, engine readjustments and technological cunning, this Toyota has beaten off the likes of Volkswagen's Golf Bluemotion and BMW's i3 electric supermini to claim the title of Green Car of the Year 2013.

Hybrids, electrics and alternatively fuelled cars have all been hailed as the solution to our motoring ails, but they tend to be over expensive, over complicated and, frankly, over-rated. They're ordinary cars that have been forced into a new template in a vain attempt to capture the green pound. They feel heavy, fragile and unreliable. But they're getting there, and this new Auris is another step forward.

With its 1,798cc, four-cylinder petrol engine plus two electric motor generators, this flagship model is fun, responsive, clever, laughingly easy to control and strikingly good looking. It's a hybrid car I'd happily own. Not because it feels like the latest and best of the current crop, but because it feels like the first of the next.

Price from £21,745
MPG up to 74.3
Top speed up to 112mph

Car Choice: Toyota Auris Hybrid
Written By: Ava Olivia 8:00 AM
Popularity: 5
Rating: 168 reviews

Subaru Outback Hybrid

<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 1.6; margin-bottom: 10px; padding: 0px;"> The 2013 Subaru Outback ranks 1 out of 8 Wagons. This ranking is based on our analysis of 19 published reviews and test drives of the Subaru Outback, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 1.6; margin-bottom: 10px; padding: 0px;"> Test drivers say the 2013 Subaru Outback successfully combines the utility of an SUV with the driveability of a car, making it one of the best wagons in the class.</div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcWpg9RHmG0-NEy2XpFeDEFrT0HCGhAj-ueUc7xmOYmeq6C9YUef2EI-a03wWyRM9YEUQGen91ltCtl5h_yO_MdfpEK0GeAxf61eX-lTg10Ztf4UzhN0uvdeZVxvGmW09ZzLHXBtG4NLk/s1600/subaru_outback.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcWpg9RHmG0-NEy2XpFeDEFrT0HCGhAj-ueUc7xmOYmeq6C9YUef2EI-a03wWyRM9YEUQGen91ltCtl5h_yO_MdfpEK0GeAxf61eX-lTg10Ztf4UzhN0uvdeZVxvGmW09ZzLHXBtG4NLk/s400/subaru_outback.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 1.6; margin-bottom: 10px; padding: 0px;"> <br /></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 1.6; margin-bottom: 10px; padding: 0px;"> The 2013 Subaru Outback has standard all-wheel drive and a choice between a four- or six-cylinder engine. Test drivers note that the four-cylinder engine is best for commuting and in-town driving, but the six-cylinder is better at freeway passing and merging, as well as navigating hilly terrain. Handling is a standout for the Outback, with most test drivers agreeing that it drives like a sedan, with confident handling and a smooth ride. Kelley Blue Book says the Outback is "as spacious and capable as a conventional mid-size SUV, but delivers the fuel efficiency and driving characteristics of a sedan." Safety is another high point for the Outback. The 2012 model, which is similar to the 2013, is an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety Top Safety Pick for its strong crash test performance.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 1.6; margin-bottom: 10px; padding: 0px;"> The Subaru Outback is the 2013 Best Wagon for the Money because it has the best combination of ownership costs and positive reviews in its class. The Subaru Outback is also the 2013 Best Wagon for Families because it has the best combination of quality, size and family-friendly features in its class.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 1.6; margin-bottom: 10px; padding: 0px;"> Reviewers say the interior of the 2013 Subaru Outback is well-built, with nice materials for the price and plenty of space for passengers and cargo. The five-seat Outback features a back seat that reclines, as well as newly-standard Bluetooth phone and music connectivity. Reviewers say the base stereo doesn't sound very good, however, and recommend upgrading to the premium system. Also new for 2013 is Subaru's EyeSight crash mitigation system, which works to detect and prevent or mitigate collisions. </div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 1.6; margin-bottom: 10px; padding: 0px;"> The Outback is available as a 2.5i or 3.6R model. The 2.5i comes in base, Premium and Limited trims, and the 3.6R is offered in base and Limited trims. The Outback was redesigned in 2010 and receives only minor changes for 2013. As a result, this review uses research from the 2010, 2011, 2012 and 2013 model years.</div>

Subaru Outback Hybrid

The 2013 Subaru Outback ranks 1 out of 8 Wagons. This ranking is based on our analysis of 19 published reviews and test drives of the Subar...

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The 2013 Subaru Outback ranks 1 out of 8 Wagons. This ranking is based on our analysis of 19 published reviews and test drives of the Subaru Outback, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

Test drivers say the 2013 Subaru Outback successfully combines the utility of an SUV with the driveability of a car, making it one of the best wagons in the class.

The 2013 Subaru Outback has standard all-wheel drive and a choice between a four- or six-cylinder engine. Test drivers note that the four-cylinder engine is best for commuting and in-town driving, but the six-cylinder is better at freeway passing and merging, as well as navigating hilly terrain. Handling is a standout for the Outback, with most test drivers agreeing that it drives like a sedan, with confident handling and a smooth ride. Kelley Blue Book says the Outback is "as spacious and capable as a conventional mid-size SUV, but delivers the fuel efficiency and driving characteristics of a sedan." Safety is another high point for the Outback. The 2012 model, which is similar to the 2013, is an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety Top Safety Pick for its strong crash test performance.

The Subaru Outback is the 2013 Best Wagon for the Money because it has the best combination of ownership costs and positive reviews in its class. The Subaru Outback is also the 2013 Best Wagon for Families because it has the best combination of quality, size and family-friendly features in its class.

Reviewers say the interior of the 2013 Subaru Outback is well-built, with nice materials for the price and plenty of space for passengers and cargo. The five-seat Outback features a back seat that reclines, as well as newly-standard Bluetooth phone and music connectivity. Reviewers say the base stereo doesn't sound very good, however, and recommend upgrading to the premium system. Also new for 2013 is Subaru's EyeSight crash mitigation system, which works to detect and prevent or mitigate collisions. 

The Outback is available as a 2.5i or 3.6R model. The 2.5i comes in base, Premium and Limited trims, and the 3.6R is offered in base and Limited trims. The Outback was redesigned in 2010 and receives only minor changes for 2013. As a result, this review uses research from the 2010, 2011, 2012 and 2013 model years.

Car Choice: Subaru Outback Hybrid
Written By: Ava Olivia 7:57 AM
Popularity: 5
Rating: 168 reviews

Ford C-Max Hybrid 2013

<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 19px;">The 2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid ranks 5 out of 8 </span>Wagons<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 19px;">. This ranking is based on our analysis of 12 published reviews and test drives of the Ford C-Max Hybrid, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.</span><br /> <div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 1.6; margin-bottom: 10px; padding: 0px;"> The 2013 Ford C-Max gets 47 miles per gallon and is more fun to drive than the Toyota Prius v, yet some test drivers say the ride is harsh, and the C-Max has less cargo space than many other wagons.</div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Hgv2tKZRDt9gppoyE_sgR06X1slmCDBS77UuL3hWO_ZGhPWjJpE5f6FtShWGx2qhJequ5pZj33S01jdvggBjr8vYdddd7R2MM1UrEvdXth5fso0mpAL4MzhpXFRPsDZwCy5d6bQIDwg/s1600/ford_c_max.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Hgv2tKZRDt9gppoyE_sgR06X1slmCDBS77UuL3hWO_ZGhPWjJpE5f6FtShWGx2qhJequ5pZj33S01jdvggBjr8vYdddd7R2MM1UrEvdXth5fso0mpAL4MzhpXFRPsDZwCy5d6bQIDwg/s400/ford_c_max.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 1.6; margin-bottom: 10px; padding: 0px;"> <br /></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 1.6; margin-bottom: 10px; padding: 0px;"> The C-Max is an all-new model for 2013 and has a four-cylinder engine and an electric motor. Reviewers say the C-Max has better acceleration than the <a href="http://neohybridcars.blogspot.com/2013/05/toyota-prius-c.html">Toyota Prius</a>, as well as better handling, but several also say the Prius v is more comfortable. Several critics also complain about the brakes on the C-Max, which they say are grabby and tough to get used to.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 1.6; margin-bottom: 10px; padding: 0px;"> Though it has a lower starting price than the Prius v, test drivers say the five-seat C-Max has a nicer interior, with more upscale materials and more passenger space. Reviewers also like the optional automatic tailgate that can be operated by waving a foot under the bumper. However, they complain that the electronics on the C-Max, particularly the optional MyFord Touch system, are tough to use and several note that the cargo space in the C-Max is somewhat limited for a wagon. </div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 1.6; margin-bottom: 10px; padding: 0px;"> The 2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid is the hybrid version of the Ford C-Max, which has been sold in Europe for years. The U.S. market will only get the C-Max Hybrid and the C-Max Energi, a plug-in hybrid that is reviewed separately. No gas-only version of the C-Max will be sold here. The C-Max hybrid seats five, and gets 47/47 mpg city/highway. The C-Max is available in SE or SEL trims.</div>

Ford C-Max Hybrid 2013

The 2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid ranks 5 out of 8  Wagons . This ranking is based on our analysis of 12 published reviews and test drives of the F...

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The 2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid ranks 5 out of 8 Wagons. This ranking is based on our analysis of 12 published reviews and test drives of the Ford C-Max Hybrid, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

The 2013 Ford C-Max gets 47 miles per gallon and is more fun to drive than the Toyota Prius v, yet some test drivers say the ride is harsh, and the C-Max has less cargo space than many other wagons.

The C-Max is an all-new model for 2013 and has a four-cylinder engine and an electric motor. Reviewers say the C-Max has better acceleration than the Toyota Prius, as well as better handling, but several also say the Prius v is more comfortable. Several critics also complain about the brakes on the C-Max, which they say are grabby and tough to get used to.

Though it has a lower starting price than the Prius v, test drivers say the five-seat C-Max has a nicer interior, with more upscale materials and more passenger space. Reviewers also like the optional automatic tailgate that can be operated by waving a foot under the bumper. However, they complain that the electronics on the C-Max, particularly the optional MyFord Touch system, are tough to use and several note that the cargo space in the C-Max is somewhat limited for a wagon. 

The 2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid is the hybrid version of the Ford C-Max, which has been sold in Europe for years. The U.S. market will only get the C-Max Hybrid and the C-Max Energi, a plug-in hybrid that is reviewed separately. No gas-only version of the C-Max will be sold here. The C-Max hybrid seats five, and gets 47/47 mpg city/highway. The C-Max is available in SE or SEL trims.

Car Choice: Ford C-Max Hybrid 2013
Written By: Ava Olivia 7:55 AM
Popularity: 5
Rating: 168 reviews

Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Hybrid

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhfFcerz8Ejj1ufgVJNJJPl_Ino2IvsaDxemEZNP7ol5K_IP2SDQpWAQpGYqIylijXzhMxvkE_2bY-8_YjeH55L7yaF-r3NidjJ88IbFHsNp2A8PXmeEkBchVwT3-CCir0RMdgSGWJ4ks/s1600/13Chevrolet_Silverado_1500_Hybrid.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhfFcerz8Ejj1ufgVJNJJPl_Ino2IvsaDxemEZNP7ol5K_IP2SDQpWAQpGYqIylijXzhMxvkE_2bY-8_YjeH55L7yaF-r3NidjJ88IbFHsNp2A8PXmeEkBchVwT3-CCir0RMdgSGWJ4ks/s640/13Chevrolet_Silverado_1500_Hybrid.jpg" width="640" /></a></div> <div style="background-color: #fafafa; line-height: 22px; margin-bottom: 10px;"> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">One of the benefits of a full-hybrid is the ability to drive in electric-only mode for a period of time. The 2013 Chevrolet Silverado Hybrid, under gentle acceleration, can drive up to 30 mph without switching to the gasoline engine. While highway fuel economy is unimpressive, city mpg is really good for a truck.</span></div> <div style="background-color: #fafafa; line-height: 22px; margin-bottom: 10px;"> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you’re looking for a pickup truck, your choices are really limited if you’re looking for a hybrid. It’s between the Silverado and GMC brother Sierra, and Silverado costs a hair less. We like the fuel economy, but we don’t like the slow acceleration and limited towing capacity. It should also be noted that the Silverado Hybrid is available only with a crew cab.</span></div> <div style="background-color: #fafafa; line-height: 22px; margin-bottom: 10px;"> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Silverado Hybrid comes equipped with the 6.0-liter, V-8 and 2 60-kilowatt electric motors. Together they deliver 379 horsepower. Acceleration is sluggish and towing capacity is rated at 6,100 pounds, which is between 1,000 and 3,600 less than a Silverado crew with the 5.3-liter V-8.</span></div> <div style="background-color: #fafafa; line-height: 22px; margin-bottom: 10px;"> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div> <div style="background-color: #fafafa; line-height: 22px; margin-bottom: 10px;"> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">While the Silverado Hybrid does come equipped with rear-seat child anchors, this isn’t going to be an ideal family vehicle. Rear space is cramped, and all the cargo capacity is in the 5-foot, 9-inch open cargo box.</span></div> <div style="background-color: #fafafa; line-height: 22px; margin-bottom: 10px;"> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Silverado Hybrid's ride and handling are a bit sloppy, and acceleration is slow. There is some fun, however, in the standard tech features, including Bluetooth, turn-by-turn navigation (first 6 months free) and SiriusXM Satellite radio (first 3 months free).</span></div> <div style="background-color: #fafafa; line-height: 22px; margin-bottom: 10px;"> <span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The 2013 Chevrolet Silverado Hybrid comes equipped with front airbags, seat-mounted front side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, traction control, stability control and OnStar. The up-level model adds parking sensors and a rearview camera.</span></div>

Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Hybrid

One of the benefits of a full-hybrid is the ability to drive in electric-only mode for a period of time. The 2013 Chevrolet Silverado Hyb...

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One of the benefits of a full-hybrid is the ability to drive in electric-only mode for a period of time. The 2013 Chevrolet Silverado Hybrid, under gentle acceleration, can drive up to 30 mph without switching to the gasoline engine. While highway fuel economy is unimpressive, city mpg is really good for a truck.

If you’re looking for a pickup truck, your choices are really limited if you’re looking for a hybrid. It’s between the Silverado and GMC brother Sierra, and Silverado costs a hair less. We like the fuel economy, but we don’t like the slow acceleration and limited towing capacity. It should also be noted that the Silverado Hybrid is available only with a crew cab.

The Silverado Hybrid comes equipped with the 6.0-liter, V-8 and 2 60-kilowatt electric motors. Together they deliver 379 horsepower. Acceleration is sluggish and towing capacity is rated at 6,100 pounds, which is between 1,000 and 3,600 less than a Silverado crew with the 5.3-liter V-8.

While the Silverado Hybrid does come equipped with rear-seat child anchors, this isn’t going to be an ideal family vehicle. Rear space is cramped, and all the cargo capacity is in the 5-foot, 9-inch open cargo box.

The Silverado Hybrid's ride and handling are a bit sloppy, and acceleration is slow. There is some fun, however, in the standard tech features, including Bluetooth, turn-by-turn navigation (first 6 months free) and SiriusXM Satellite radio (first 3 months free).

The 2013 Chevrolet Silverado Hybrid comes equipped with front airbags, seat-mounted front side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, traction control, stability control and OnStar. The up-level model adds parking sensors and a rearview camera.

Car Choice: Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Hybrid
Written By: Ava Olivia 10:52 PM
Popularity: 5
Rating: 168 reviews

Chrysler Aspen Hybrid SUV

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQanK-jHPF_G9CullgAn6TB1GYJMW7hdSSKeHy7_Kf-Q-7VZq-DaDP2mcKqBsw2s0MEc8FNhl_p6YBa0OD7SWr3HKGvJPYffJNdszwbyFThYH2_r4mras2e67ovaT4bBp2itVMdXV6taQ/s1600/2009_chrysler_aspen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQanK-jHPF_G9CullgAn6TB1GYJMW7hdSSKeHy7_Kf-Q-7VZq-DaDP2mcKqBsw2s0MEc8FNhl_p6YBa0OD7SWr3HKGvJPYffJNdszwbyFThYH2_r4mras2e67ovaT4bBp2itVMdXV6taQ/s640/2009_chrysler_aspen.jpg" width="640" /></a></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 1.6; margin-bottom: 10px; padding: 0px;"> <br /></div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 1.6; margin-bottom: 10px; padding: 0px;"> The 2009 Chrysler Aspen is a competent, although not very compelling, 2009 large SUV. With seating for up to eight and a fairly high towing capacity, the Aspen has the brawn to compete in this segment, but most reviewers said you can easily find something better.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 1.6; margin-bottom: 10px; padding: 0px;"> When it was new, reviewers were generally impressed with the Aspen’s optional 5.7-liter V8, but found its handling underwhelming. Fuel economy is typical for the class, while reliability is rated slightly above the class average. The base Aspen gets 14/20 mpg city/highway with its 4.7-liter V8 and rear-wheel drive, but choosing an Aspen with four-wheel drive or the larger V8 means fuel economy will drop slightly. A hybrid version of the 2009 Aspen is rated at 20/22 mpg city/highway, but it was only produced for a few months before the Aspen was discontinued.</div> <div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 1.6; margin-bottom: 10px; padding: 0px;"> The 2009 Chrysler Aspen comes standard with power locks and windows, a backup camera, a power tailgate and a touch-screen stereo with an auxiliary input. Available equipment includes a power sunroof, Bluetooth, leather seating, Sirius Backseat satellite TV and navigation. Maximum cargo volume with the second- and third-row seats folded is 102.4 cubic feet, but some competitors offer more space with all seats in use.</div>

Chrysler Aspen Hybrid SUV

The 2009 Chrysler Aspen is a competent, although not very compelling, 2009 large SUV. With seating for up to eight and a fairly high to...

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The 2009 Chrysler Aspen is a competent, although not very compelling, 2009 large SUV. With seating for up to eight and a fairly high towing capacity, the Aspen has the brawn to compete in this segment, but most reviewers said you can easily find something better.

When it was new, reviewers were generally impressed with the Aspen’s optional 5.7-liter V8, but found its handling underwhelming. Fuel economy is typical for the class, while reliability is rated slightly above the class average. The base Aspen gets 14/20 mpg city/highway with its 4.7-liter V8 and rear-wheel drive, but choosing an Aspen with four-wheel drive or the larger V8 means fuel economy will drop slightly. A hybrid version of the 2009 Aspen is rated at 20/22 mpg city/highway, but it was only produced for a few months before the Aspen was discontinued.

The 2009 Chrysler Aspen comes standard with power locks and windows, a backup camera, a power tailgate and a touch-screen stereo with an auxiliary input. Available equipment includes a power sunroof, Bluetooth, leather seating, Sirius Backseat satellite TV and navigation. Maximum cargo volume with the second- and third-row seats folded is 102.4 cubic feet, but some competitors offer more space with all seats in use.

Car Choice: Chrysler Aspen Hybrid SUV
Written By: Ava Olivia 10:44 PM
Popularity: 5
Rating: 168 reviews

Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlyPW8lwcAViKetttphfO_s5Ae_evL-lcbvaVDX2FjJH-vWxmZiRubZKYJNehPK5PCKMWJML_kg_E6PpiW9_fAgwz8jTFWsE0erakASNOwUfmz3V9b-5_vTH0lQjFZ042Ab8_TJ3i9MuQ/s1600/subaru-xv.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="508" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlyPW8lwcAViKetttphfO_s5Ae_evL-lcbvaVDX2FjJH-vWxmZiRubZKYJNehPK5PCKMWJML_kg_E6PpiW9_fAgwz8jTFWsE0erakASNOwUfmz3V9b-5_vTH0lQjFZ042Ab8_TJ3i9MuQ/s640/subaru-xv.jpg" width="640" /></a></div> <div style="border: 0px; font-family: sans-serif, Arial, Helvetica; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> <br /></div> <div style="border: 0px; font-family: sans-serif, Arial, Helvetica; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> One year after launching the Subaru XV Crosstrek crossover, a hybrid version debuted at the New York auto show on Thursday.</div> <div style="border: 0px; font-family: sans-serif, Arial, Helvetica; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> The XV Crosstrek Hybrid is Subaru's first production hybrid. Subaru aims to maintain the performance and versatility of the gas-powered version while improving fuel economy.</div> <div style="border: 0px; font-family: sans-serif, Arial, Helvetica; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> In keeping with this theory, the Crosstrek hybrid keeps its 8.7-inch ground clearance and all-wheel-drive drivetrain.</div> <div style="border: 0px; font-family: sans-serif, Arial, Helvetica; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> Power comes from a 2.0-liter four-cylinder horizontally opposed engine, rated at 148 hp, combined with a 13.4-hp electric motor integrated into the continuously variable transmission. The car also carries a 100-volt, 13.5-kilowatt nickel-metal hydride battery.</div> <div style="border: 0px; font-family: sans-serif, Arial, Helvetica; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> According to EPA estimates, even with roughly 300 pounds of added weight, the hybrid version achieves 28 mpg in the city, 34 mpg on the highway and 31 mpg combined. EPA estimates for the gas version are 25 mpg in the city, 33 mpg on the highway and 28 mpg combined.</div> <div style="border: 0px; font-family: sans-serif, Arial, Helvetica; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> Aside from the electric motor, changes that make the hybrid more efficient include regenerative braking; the stop/start feature that shuts down the engine when the vehicle comes to a stop; and an active grille shutter system that reduces aerodynamic resistance.</div> <div style="border: 0px; font-family: sans-serif, Arial, Helvetica; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> A revised ventilation system is designed to react to temperature and humidity sensors in the cabin, optimizing operation and reducing the need to draw power from the engine.</div> <div style="border: 0px; font-family: sans-serif, Arial, Helvetica; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> The exterior is primarily unchanged except for the addition of hybrid badging and a new Plasma Green Pearl paint color.</div> <div style="border: 0px; font-family: sans-serif, Arial, Helvetica; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> Inside, the color scheme is cool blue accented with silver trim. The instrument cluster will feature the blue color scheme.</div> <div style="border: 0px; font-family: sans-serif, Arial, Helvetica; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> As with most hybrids, a multifunction display has been added that tracks energy flow for the driver to monitor.</div> <div style="border: 0px; font-family: sans-serif, Arial, Helvetica; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> As with many hybrids, cargo space is slightly reduced with the addition of the battery, going from 51.9 cubic feet in the gasoline model to 50.2 cubic feet in the hybrid.</div> <div style="border: 0px; font-family: sans-serif, Arial, Helvetica; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> Pricing for the XV Crosstrek hybrid has not been released. It is expected to reach dealerships by the end of this year.</div>

Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid

One year after launching the Subaru XV Crosstrek crossover, a hybrid version debuted at the New York auto show on Thursday. The XV Cr...

Read more »

One year after launching the Subaru XV Crosstrek crossover, a hybrid version debuted at the New York auto show on Thursday.

The XV Crosstrek Hybrid is Subaru's first production hybrid. Subaru aims to maintain the performance and versatility of the gas-powered version while improving fuel economy.

In keeping with this theory, the Crosstrek hybrid keeps its 8.7-inch ground clearance and all-wheel-drive drivetrain.

Power comes from a 2.0-liter four-cylinder horizontally opposed engine, rated at 148 hp, combined with a 13.4-hp electric motor integrated into the continuously variable transmission. The car also carries a 100-volt, 13.5-kilowatt nickel-metal hydride battery.

According to EPA estimates, even with roughly 300 pounds of added weight, the hybrid version achieves 28 mpg in the city, 34 mpg on the highway and 31 mpg combined. EPA estimates for the gas version are 25 mpg in the city, 33 mpg on the highway and 28 mpg combined.

Aside from the electric motor, changes that make the hybrid more efficient include regenerative braking; the stop/start feature that shuts down the engine when the vehicle comes to a stop; and an active grille shutter system that reduces aerodynamic resistance.

A revised ventilation system is designed to react to temperature and humidity sensors in the cabin, optimizing operation and reducing the need to draw power from the engine.

The exterior is primarily unchanged except for the addition of hybrid badging and a new Plasma Green Pearl paint color.

Inside, the color scheme is cool blue accented with silver trim. The instrument cluster will feature the blue color scheme.

As with most hybrids, a multifunction display has been added that tracks energy flow for the driver to monitor.

As with many hybrids, cargo space is slightly reduced with the addition of the battery, going from 51.9 cubic feet in the gasoline model to 50.2 cubic feet in the hybrid.

Pricing for the XV Crosstrek hybrid has not been released. It is expected to reach dealerships by the end of this year.

Car Choice: Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid
Written By: Ava Olivia 10:18 PM
Popularity: 5
Rating: 168 reviews