2013 Lexus CT200h

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijoCaEg2uNW4Wgv16FaNrxYCGdBhou7TJ8vfw4QJ4pqQN4aMxWTL5DJIjc9MbfikoiRnAHYOCfYVf5gxoWKuaGfDOPhcACbfYH3vp9MBZtP8j3Tl5dGIMSB97qqH-O_1wmOc5un7DVbNU/s1600/lexus-ct200h.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="243" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijoCaEg2uNW4Wgv16FaNrxYCGdBhou7TJ8vfw4QJ4pqQN4aMxWTL5DJIjc9MbfikoiRnAHYOCfYVf5gxoWKuaGfDOPhcACbfYH3vp9MBZtP8j3Tl5dGIMSB97qqH-O_1wmOc5un7DVbNU/s400/lexus-ct200h.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> <br /> Being the luxury nameplate for Toyota, the top-selling hybrid maker, Lexus offers a range of hybrids including its most fuel efficient and cost-effective, the CT200h.<br /> <br /> The car carries forward with minimal updates from the 2012 model year, having ranked last year in the top 10 itself for North American sales.<br /> <br /> Making use of a version of the Toyota Prius' 1.8-liter Atkinson cycle engine, and electric motor based Hybrid Synergy Drive system, the CT200h offers an upscale trade-off.<br /> <br /> In exchange for more sporty styling, attention to luxury, and improved road-handling manners, the car is a compact class – not midsize like the Prius – and its mileage is a lower, but still respectable 43 mpg city, 40 highway, and 42 mpg combined.<br /> <br /> This makes it the most efficient of Lexus' growing range of five hybrids, and at a suggested retail price of $32,050 overlaps into upper trim-level Prius territory, and the CT 200h is the least expensive entry point into Lexus brand ownership.<br /> <br /> The vehicle does channel its power through a continuously variable transmission however, which while maximizing efficiency, can be less than sonorous as it hunts through variable ratios, gives no manual control or over-ride ability to the driver, and is not the most desirable among genuine sports cars.<br /> <br /> The car's hybrid system features four driving modes: EV, Eco, Normal and Sport, but its 0-60 times are basically equal to the regular <a href="http://neohybridcars.blogspot.com/2013/05/toyota-prius-c.html">Prius</a> Liftback.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcpElIJ58d-D5A2TVWu_V-ukYp9M-aars1_Upg3q5uhKWoyvuYrPwQ-bcwMZSB9j9GgC0SRltrO1rtZbJNm5ArPCWZ-61KY_nf_7FPYehWSnIc3jDcPCGdehVIerWA4LqmAVOBWN8xfIA/s1600/lexus-ct200h-interior.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcpElIJ58d-D5A2TVWu_V-ukYp9M-aars1_Upg3q5uhKWoyvuYrPwQ-bcwMZSB9j9GgC0SRltrO1rtZbJNm5ArPCWZ-61KY_nf_7FPYehWSnIc3jDcPCGdehVIerWA4LqmAVOBWN8xfIA/s400/lexus-ct200h-interior.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> <br /> Updates this year include a Silver Lining Metallic paint color, and Ultra White is available with the F SPORT options.<br /> <br /> Inside changes include updated navigation with next generation Lexus Enform® with Safety Connect® and App Suite, and HD Radio™ with iTunes® tagging. Also, the navigation screen can be kept closed at start up and the car has a padded driver's arm rest.<br /> <br /> Park assist is also now available as a standalone option, and a Seat Comfort Package offers heated front seats and four-way power passenger seat (required with Premium Package).

2013 Lexus CT200h

Being the luxury nameplate for Toyota, the top-selling hybrid maker, Lexus offers a range of hybrids including its most fuel efficient an...

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2012 Honda Civic Hybrid

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyA3IBomfKsrSrRT0EaLaZlIJ27M1hgAeZpCaHtad7Rw65VNxBtt0o4i_CsD2WvSt3RcaGhKnFrOrjnmGJqmltVDkGz88-rxW5s4Xi-Ohgq7b6WmDLUMV63enU_vYrBCGZXFT0pNUGWU8/s1600/2012-honda-civic-hybrid.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="243" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyA3IBomfKsrSrRT0EaLaZlIJ27M1hgAeZpCaHtad7Rw65VNxBtt0o4i_CsD2WvSt3RcaGhKnFrOrjnmGJqmltVDkGz88-rxW5s4Xi-Ohgq7b6WmDLUMV63enU_vYrBCGZXFT0pNUGWU8/s400/2012-honda-civic-hybrid.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> <br /> Honda says that the 2012 Civic Hybrid is the most fuel-efficient sedan (i.e. not a hatchback) on U.S. roads. The all-new, ninth-generation 2012 Honda Civic Hybrid, using a lithium ion battery for the first time, increases its average EPA fuel economy rating from 41 mpg to 44 mpg. The new model is rated at 44 in both city and highway driving.<br /> <br /> The improvement in fuel economy solidifies the Civic Hybrid's second-place position for fuel economy among cars that don't plug into the grid. The 44-mpg average moves the Civic slightly closer to the Prius's 50-mpg level, and edges out the 42-mpg <a href="http://neohybridcars.blogspot.com/2013/08/2013-lexus-ct200h.html">Lexus CT 200h</a>. Honda makes the claim that the Civic Hybrid becomes the most fuel-efficient sedan – meaning it's not a hatchback – on U.S. roads.<br /> <br /> In addition to the shift to lithium-ion batteries, the 2012 Civic Hybrid gains a larger gasoline engine, a 1.5-liter four-cylinder in place of a 1.3-liter. Combined gasoline and electric horsepower is unchanged at 110 and torque is up a nominal four pounds-feet, to 127. Yuuji Fujiki, chief engineer for Honda's IMA hybrid system, explained that the larger displacement allows the engine to run at lower RPMs, which in turn allows for more frequent use of the electric motor and produces a quieter ride.<br /> <br /> Fujiki said every aspect of the hybrid system's design was tweaked for optimal efficiency – such as the motor that increases output from 15 kW to 20 kW, uses more coils and widely spaced magnets, and employs plastic spacers to better manage temperature. The motor provides up to 23 horsepower, a three horsepower gain over the previous motor.<br /> <br /> The 20-kW Li-ion battery is more powerful by 5 kW and 30 percent lighter than the previous generation's nickel-metal hydride battery. The IMA system's greater power and the battery's 35 percent increase in efficiency allow the Civic Hybrid to operate more frequently on the electric motor's power alone in certain low-speed cruising situations.<br /> <br /> There's a side benefit in going lithium: so the next generation of Civic Hybrid owners don't go postal.<br /> <br /> The Civic Hybrid doesn't stray too far from its gasoline cousins. The Civic's ride and handling reputation of being among the very best in class continues. Tweaks to the all-independent suspension, the shorter wheelbase and a stiffer body provide a more refined ride comfort than the 2011 model while maintaining agile and responsive handling. Steering is nicely weighted and executes sharp cornering in an effortless manner.<br /> <br /> Tough horsepower is the same, the larger displacement 1.5-liter four is more responsive than the previous 1.3-liter engine. While it won't win any stoplight drags, once up to speed it's a solid performer when merging onto freeways and passing.<br /> <br /> Around town the Hybrid has a smooth, fairly well-damped ride and it's easy-to-drive and easy-to-park. The highway ride is firm, controlled and pleasant, not harsh. Bumps and those pesky expansion joints have a negligible impact.<br /> <br /> Two things set the Hybrid apart from the gas Civics. First, while improved, the regenerative brakes still have a jerky pedal feel that take time to get used to. Second, and again improved, when the gas engine restarts after shutting down temporarily at stops, the car shudders as it gets up to speed.<br /> <br /> For 2012, the base Civic Hybrid has a suggested retail price of $24,050, up $100 from 2011. A leather-trimmed interior package that includes heated front seats adds $1,200. Combine the leather with a navigation package and the sticker price is $27,150. In comparison, the Toyota Prius Three, the most popular 2011 model with fuel economy rated at 50 miles per gallon in combined city/highway driving, starts at $24,520 and includes satellite radio.<br /> <br /> In the past, Prius buyers usually spent at least a couple thousand more dollars to buy Toyota's celebrity hybrid than those who drove off with a Civic, but that has changed. Not only has the price gap narrowed, the Prius is a larger car and it's hatchback style allows the rear seats to fold forward, enlarging the cargo space from 21.6 cubic feet to nearly 40 cubic feet.<br /> <br /> Even though the price comparison between the Civic Hybrid and <a href="http://neohybridcars.blogspot.com/2013/05/toyota-prius-c.html">Toyota Prius</a> tips the scale toward the Prius with its better fuel economy, the Civic Hybrid will satisfy shoppers who value the Honda Civic for its reliability and contemporary look, but really want a hybrid. And, if the Prius design is not your cup of tea, and you can live with a compact rather than a mid-size sedan, then the 2012 Honda Civic Hybrid is worth a strong consideration.

2012 Honda Civic Hybrid

Honda says that the 2012 Civic Hybrid is the most fuel-efficient sedan (i.e. not a hatchback) on U.S. roads. The all-new, ninth-generatio...

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2013 Ford C-Max Energi

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZYgaK9pghKEmdTbZ-FL69xClRUkVNXhKOn3jscJT94T4GREBIK5RAUupUdmbAfqe46GMgWQYnosKfCabXHwf9vTdon7EDQqlzLSedaX8khYD2qHe-ovKl3bcKurVPj2nsETM7YLKxDi4/s1600/2013-Ford-C-Max-Energi-Action-01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="243" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZYgaK9pghKEmdTbZ-FL69xClRUkVNXhKOn3jscJT94T4GREBIK5RAUupUdmbAfqe46GMgWQYnosKfCabXHwf9vTdon7EDQqlzLSedaX8khYD2qHe-ovKl3bcKurVPj2nsETM7YLKxDi4/s400/2013-Ford-C-Max-Energi-Action-01.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <br /> As part of its commitment to sell a broader selection of fuel-saving hybrid and electric-powered vehicles, Ford launched the 2013 no-plug C-Max Hybrid and plug-in C-Max Energi hybrid.<br /> The C-Max is an American version of the European five-passenger C-Max that shares its underlying global C platform and many key components with the 2012 Ford Focus.<br /> "C" refers to an international size class, which in the U.S. falls into the compact class. In Europe, the C-Max is called a multipurpose vehicle (MPV), while most Americans will dub it a hatchback.<br /> <br /> Even though the <a href="http://neohybridcars.blogspot.com/2013/05/toyota-prius-c.html">Toyota Prius</a> may be the undisputed benchmark of hybrid vehicles, Ford believes the C-Max near twins can chip away at Toyota's market dominance of hybrid cars. And part of their strategy takes a page out of the Prius' playbook — design.<br /> <br /> C-Max Energi and the less-electrified C-Max Hybrid are the first Ford models to employ the third-generation version of Ford’s hybrid system. They also mark Ford’s first integration of lithium-ion battery technology in a hybrid.<br /> <br /> Both C-Max models use a lean-burning Atkinson-cycle 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, scaled down from the 2.5-liter version in the Fusion Hybrid. Without delving into details, an Atkinson-cycle engine gives up a little power output in exchange for improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHOlQEaTT4v8m9eY2Mp2vEfCB6lEUUzfT3yAXPX8Fhe4CTFmzF1bW0ruLlorlfntr2xYQCtK4cFN4gvYP22t3zmBy2dg3i7CfwBWsMGbM7yXXySkYaqQPbquw8FcPsd3-ACsrXiBZai0Y/s1600/2013-Ford-C-Max-Energi-Seating.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHOlQEaTT4v8m9eY2Mp2vEfCB6lEUUzfT3yAXPX8Fhe4CTFmzF1bW0ruLlorlfntr2xYQCtK4cFN4gvYP22t3zmBy2dg3i7CfwBWsMGbM7yXXySkYaqQPbquw8FcPsd3-ACsrXiBZai0Y/s400/2013-Ford-C-Max-Energi-Seating.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> <br /> Ford rates the four's output at 141 horsepower and 129 pounds-feet of torque.<br /> <br /> C-Max styling is heavily influenced by the Iosis MAX concept unveiled at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show. The design was created by Ford’s European design group and follows the company's "kinetic" styling themes.<br /> <br /> Up front, a large, lower, inverted trapezoid grille and small upper grille are becoming signature design elements of Ford cars. Long flowing headlights establish an athletic look and the short, sculpted hood leads into a sharply raked windshield.<br /> <br /> Driving in EV mode, the Energi performs quite well. Thanks to the instant-on torque from the electric motor, acceleration can be rather brisk when needed, but that action can devour electrons rapidly.<br /> <br /> It cruises city streets in quiet fashion and easily keeps up with the flow of traffic. Considering the 38-psi inflation pressures for the Michelin Energy Saver P225/50R-17 tires, the ride is quite smooth.<br /> <br /> Energi trounces the Volt's 35 mpg city/40 highway/ 37 combined gasoline fuel economy but the Volt can travel 38 miles on electric juice compared to the Energi's 21 miles. The Energi also posts a 100 MPGe compared to the Volt’s 98 MPGe.<br /> <br /> Volt’s base price is $39,995 and qualifies for a federal tax credit of $7,500, lowering the price down to $32,495. That’s $2,200 more than the Energi after the tax credit, but if your round trip commute is in the 35 to 40 mile range, that difference could be offset with the savings in gas-free commuting.<br /> <br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHL45_IGIRPKSi3wNoBThJpSolenG9Jd_XeEYiv0qqLeMB9R9b2zYo-u0ETvBLyFOdI9-QsvJzrVK57nMd39mBINt3sM41DyC7IR58t-F755Ih1kWiM4bk9PhF0sM2wuhiY-QH57RTY9I/s1600/2013-Ford-C-Max-Energi-Cargo-Full.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHL45_IGIRPKSi3wNoBThJpSolenG9Jd_XeEYiv0qqLeMB9R9b2zYo-u0ETvBLyFOdI9-QsvJzrVK57nMd39mBINt3sM41DyC7IR58t-F755Ih1kWiM4bk9PhF0sM2wuhiY-QH57RTY9I/s400/2013-Ford-C-Max-Energi-Cargo-Full.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> <br /> Choosing between these three plug-in cars will require determining what your needs are and how a car fits into your daily life.

2013 Ford C-Max Energi

As part of its commitment to sell a broader selection of fuel-saving hybrid and electric-powered vehicles, Ford launched the 2013 n...

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BMW i3 Electric Car

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxvQF6b5G-emzuJBP6QHzaGMBB1wxcHHIP60s0qSK9tMV6OfvfGoz4AUFMZ8Bgp5HRMDfu-hPYC6DNJdvWixE-n5rmaDqmFliOErGFWj-RRxS2lrxac84cAafOQrSVRRcyHYEzlPXPHTA/s1600/BMW-i3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="243" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxvQF6b5G-emzuJBP6QHzaGMBB1wxcHHIP60s0qSK9tMV6OfvfGoz4AUFMZ8Bgp5HRMDfu-hPYC6DNJdvWixE-n5rmaDqmFliOErGFWj-RRxS2lrxac84cAafOQrSVRRcyHYEzlPXPHTA/s400/BMW-i3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> <br /> As promised, today was the global debut for the BMW i3, the luxury carmaker's first in its "i Series" of electrified cars and featuring several innovations intended to match the company’s reputation for being a cut above.<br /> <br /> The i3 will be the smallest BMW and approximately the size of a 1 Series, but with interior space on par with a 3 Series, and with range somewhere near that of a Nissan Leaf or Ford Focus Electric. A gas-powered 650-cc twin cylinder range extender will be a $3,850 option and the vehicle is slated for sale in the second quarter of 2014.<br /> As the "world's first mass-produced car" using carbon fiber reinforced plastic, the i3 has been built from the ground up as a pure EV.<br /> BMW says CRFP is "equally as strong as steel, while being 50 percent lighter, and 30 percent lighter than aluminum," and the estimated weight for the all-electric version is 2,700 pounds.<br /> <br /> A smaller 22-kwh lithium-ion battery weighing about 450 pounds was deemed sufficient as there is less total vehicular mass to move around. The smaller battery also means less cost and shorter recharge times.<br /> At the same time, the sturdy structure is said to be safe for occupants.<br /> <br /> Constructed of aluminum, the "Drive Module" combines the battery, electric drivetrain, MacPherson strut and 5-link rear suspension system along with structural and crash components. The rear-mounted motor is close to the rear drive wheels. BMW says it gives impressive performance characteristics while also providing better traction.<br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguLYP5njTw3XeUd-01iXQw76bgLDVQii9VCQhy3r6GL5KyTphcI1zhot18sLnzS9rDYNCVJrj0z_lbcg73krFGM1e0AJCHBbBavyjsVTTEdrwDeTQ9ko_b239cjQHaWdUPLEwk1a6wz7k/s1600/BMW-i3-interior.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguLYP5njTw3XeUd-01iXQw76bgLDVQii9VCQhy3r6GL5KyTphcI1zhot18sLnzS9rDYNCVJrj0z_lbcg73krFGM1e0AJCHBbBavyjsVTTEdrwDeTQ9ko_b239cjQHaWdUPLEwk1a6wz7k/s400/BMW-i3-interior.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> <br /> In this case, 0-35 mph is said to take 3.5 seconds, 0-60 mph is said to be in around 7 seconds, and top speed is 93 mph. This is quicker than the much less expensive Chevy Spark EV which boasts a 400 pound-foot torque figure and around 7.6 seconds to 60.<br /> <br /> Rated power for the i3 is 170 horsepower and 184 pounds-feet of torque.<br /> <br /> Pricing including destination will start at $42,275 and the range-extended version will begin at at $46,125. The battery will include an 8-year/100,000-mile warranty. Included is roadside assistance if the battery loses a charge during a trip and the navigation system does shows charging station locations.<br /> <br /> BMW is also offering house calls for customer test drives and special training for dealers. A fee-based loaner vehicle program, arranged by dealers is also available.

BMW i3 Electric Car

As promised, today was the global debut for the BMW i3, the luxury carmaker's first in its "i Series" of electrified cars a...

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