Hybrid vehicles have become more popular in the past few years, as drivers are constantly trying to find ways to save on gas costs. Pump prices have rocketed especially after the Iraq war in 2003, as the flow of oil supplies was disrupted. Ever since that year, gas remains expensive and continues to rise due to market turbulence, high demand and conflicts in the Middle East.
Is 2007 the year to jump on the bandwagon for hybrid vehicles? Consider that using hybrid technology will be more expensive compared to purchasing a standard vehicle. Some of the top vehicle makers have already released an impressive line of hybrid vehicles 2007 that will likely make car buyers scamper to showrooms similar to bored wives going to a mall sale.
The 2007 Toyota Camry Hybrid
Updated for 2007, the Toyota Camry Hybrid is a 4-door sedan that can carry 5 passengers. This hybrid vehicle is powered by a standard I4, 2.4-liter hybrid engine boasting of 192-horspeower. This hybrid vehicle achieves 43-mpg in city driving and 37-mpg on highway drives. The Camry has automatic transmission and overdrive is standard.
Initial Impressions
The 2007 Toyota Camry Hybrid has been lauded for its impressive interior and consumption. However, many users have complained that consumption struggles to achieve as what is advertised by the company. Some even say that this vehicle only achieves 34mpg maximum.
Toyota has pulled out all the stops for this hybrid vehicle but it comes with a price, and expensive at that. Sold at an average of $29,000 in showrooms across the US. This vehicle is a nice option for those that do not want to scrimp on luxury but save on gas.
2007 Ford Escape Hybrid
A hit vehicle in 2006 that just got better for 2007. The 2007 Ford Escape is a 4-door sport-utility vehicle that can carry a maximum of five passengers. This hybrid vehicle comes in two trims, the 4WD and FWD.
This SUV hybrid is powered by a I4, 2.3-liter, 155-horsepower engine. Can achieve 36-mpg in city driving and 31-mpg in highway driving. Both trims come with transmission is variable speed automatic.
Initial impressions
A favorite among vehicle critics, the 2007 Ford Escape Hybrid for its Interior Space, Fuel Economy, GPS, and Comfort. Fuel Economy is outstanding and most consumers supposedly achieve 35 mpg, which is just below the advertised 36 mpg. However, attaining this type of performance will rely on the skills and behavior of the driver. 2007 might be the year Ford reclaims its dominance in the SUV market with the new Ford Escape.
2007 Mercury Mariner Hybrid
Looking to extend its great run in 2006, Mercury has updated the Mariner Hybrid for 2007. This vehicle only comes in one trim, the 4WD. This hybrid vehicle is powered by an I4, 2.3-liter, 133-horsepower hybrid engine. This vehicle can achieve 33-mpg in city driving and 29-mpg if cruising on the highway.
2007 Lexus GS 450h
All-new for 2007, the Lexus GS 450h is the hybrid that will propel the company in the new year. This hybrid vehicle is a 4-door luxury sedan and comes only in one trim, the Sedan.
The 450h is powered by a standard V6, 3.5-liter, V6, 339-horsepower hybrid engine. This hybrid vehicle can achieve 28-mpg in city driving and 28-mpg when cruising on the highway.
Initial impressions
The 2007 Lexus GS 450h has been lauded for having the best interiors around. Gas mileage is supposedly revolutionary and performance is comparable to the BMW M3.
For those unfamiliar with how hybrid vehicles work and what they do, here's a short primer. Hybrid vehicles typically use both an energy storage system and a traditional gasoline engine, thereby eliminating sole reliance on gas for power. This in turn expends less gas and less harmful emissions.
For example, hybrid cars have a rechargeable energy storage system that recaptures energy during standard vehicle movements. Specifically, this energy storage system might actually shut down the gasoline engine during idling, traffic stops, or braking. Without getting into mechanical particulars, suffice it to say hybrid vehicles offer greater fuel economy, particularly for those who drive in heavy city traffic.
What You Should Expect To See In 2008:
New Hybrid Sedans:
Chevy Malibu rolls out a new hybrid model as a 2009 offering late this summer or early fall. Others with similar plans include the Ford Fusion and Saturn's AURA in their Green Line. Also expect a new version of the Mercury Milan as a hybrid.
Crossovers and SUV's Go Hybrid:
Chevrolet Equinox, Toyota Prius, and Toyota Sienna roll out as hybrids this year. Saturn will also introduce their VUE as part of their Green Line. The Saturn VUE will reportedly tout 50% fewer emissions vs. their regular model.
2009 Hybrid Pickups and Hybrid Truck Models:
New from General Motors in the hybrid pickup and full size truck category will be the Chevy Silverado, a full size pickup expected to debut as a 2009 model. Also from GM and another 2009 model will be the GMC Sierra, also a pickup.
More 2008 Hybrid Car News:
Of interest is the first hybrid car from China, the Roewe 750, a midsize car. Chinese car manufacturer SAIE is producing the hybrid 750, their version of the United Kingdom's Rover 75.
We'll be seeing auto manufacturers continue to roll out new hybrid car and truck models as consumer demand increases. Expect to see significant new hybrid car developments as we head toward 2009 and 2010.
Both Richard Henderson & Jim Hofman are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
Richard Henderson has sinced written about articles on various topics from Abdominal, Home Management and Gift Ideas. Richard Henderson runs his own home based marketing business but in his spare time writes articles about his passion cars!Why not visit one of his websites full of. Richard Henderson's top article generates over 18100 views. to your Favourites.
Jim Hofman has sinced written about articles on various topics from Cardio Training, Modelling and Health. For an in depth look at , including side-by-side hybrid car and truck comparisons comparisons and availability, be sure to visit our brand new. Jim Hofman's top article generates over 9900 views. to your Favourites.