Comparing Hybrid Cars and Trucks

What You Need to Look Out For

With the rise of several hybrid cars and trucks, you may be wondering which features you need to watch out for. Convenience, cleanliness and efficiency are the three most important factors that every hybrid model should have. You are purchasing to save more on gas, energy and money which is why you need to know more about engines, batteries and other special features that promise to provide all these. Here are the top hybrid cars and trucks.

2007 Toyota Prius

The 2007 Toyota Prius is number one when it comes to mpg rating. The Prius is a hatchback car featuring an electric motor backed up by a gasoline engine. Low and moderate speeds can independently be supported by the electric motor and the gasoline engine only operates once the vehicle starts to run at faster speeds. At an average of 46 mpg, the Toyota Prius takes the top spot in gas mileage. It is considered as an economy car but offers a very stylish design as well as a roomy interior. At over $22,000, this hybrid car is definitely a good buy.

2007 Saturn Aura Green Line Hybrid

The Saturn Aura Green Line Hybrid is also considered as an economy car. It uses a system that manufacturers refer to as mild class since it still greatly depends on the gasoline engine. However, there is a 25% fuel economy advantage compared to its gasoline-powered counterpart. Compared with other hybrids in its class, gas mileage may not be as great but the savings will surely be worth the investment. The Saturn Aura is priced at over $22,000.

2007 Toyota Camry Hybrid

In terms of fuel economy, the Toyota Camry presented a well-worth effort just below the Prius Hybrid. The Camry features the very same hybrid system of an electric motor supported by a gasoline engine. The size of this hybrid sedan may have caused the difference. However, the exterior and interior are much better compared to many in its class. It also averaged 34 mpg running both in city traffic and on the highway which is very good. The car does have a heftier price tag of over $26,000.

2005 GMC Sierra Hybrid

This hybrid truck features a 5.3-liter 5300 Vortec V-8 engine with integrated starter and generator or ISG and regenerative braking features. The engine is able to conserve energy to provide electricity for low-powered devices. The ISG mechanism automatically shuts down the engine whenever the vehicle slows down or stops. The technology incorporated in the GMC Sierra is considered as full hybrid giving it a price tag of $32,000.

Dodge Ram Hybrid

The Dodge Ram Hybrid is considered as the very first diesel-electric featuring a 5.9-liter turbodiesel engine with a torque of 600 lb-ft. The vehicle is power-packed with 325 horsepower (242.5 kW). The hybrid truck also has 110/220 AC power outlets to service electricity. Compared to its gasoline-powered counterpart, the Dodge Ram also saves fuel by as much as 15%. It is priced at over $32,000 which is average among other hybrid cars and trucks.