Since the first mass-produced Hybrid car in the world hit the mainstream market, the technology has become quite popular among consumers. Moreover, government across the globe have been pushing car makers to cut down on emissions, encouraging them to manufacture energy-efficient vehicles. As such, almost all automotive manufacturers have been developing and releasing their own hybrid versions.
What are Hybrid Cars?
To put it simply, hybrid vehicles have two different sources of power. These cars typically have an electric motor with an internal combustion engine. In the market, you will commonly find electric motors paired with gas-powered engines. However, there are also hybrid vehicles with an electric motor paired with a diesel engine.
It is also worth noting that there are various types of hybrid technologies and they are not simply classified by the engine paired with the electric motor. In this article, we will discuss some of the best hybrid cars that people in the industry have been raving about. Be surprised with all the interesting details about the following vehicles:
- SUV: Tesla Model X
- Truck: Toyota A-BAT Hybrid
- Minivan: Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid
- Sedan: Toyota Camry Hybrid
SUV: Tesla Model X
At Carused.jp, we’ve gone through thousands of vehicles and we can say that no other SUV on the market can compare to Tesla Model X. An electric car offering a long driving range and self-driving technology, Tesla Model X still does not compromise comfort or space.
Considering that it offers a long electric driving range and the latest tech features, the Tesla Model X is a good SUV. Depending on the battery you choose, the driving range can be between 237 to 295 miles. What’s more, this vehicle can jump from zero to 60 mph, making it an ideal car for adrenaline-pumped drivers. On the other hand, it is important to note that this is an expensive vehicle. While there are many other hybrid SUVs that are less expensive, none of them can match the luxury and performance that Tesla Model X can provide.
What to Expect from the Tesla Model X
On the highway, the base 75D Model X gets 95 mpg-e, and in the city, it gets 91 mpg-e. On the other hand, the 90D model gets 94 mpg-e on the highway and 90 mpg-e in the city. Meanwhile, the 100D gets 81/92 mpg-e.
While this vehicle is categorized as an SUV, it doesn’t feel as heavy when you are driving it. To put it another way, this vehicle drives like the Tesla Model S, which is categorized as a sedan. Around the corners, you can expect the Model X to be stable with little body lean. What’s more, it features responsive and direct steering. However, it is worth noting that when you go over dips in the road, it wouldn’t be as stable. It is a standard for Model X units to have an all-wheel drive.
Truck: Toyota A-BAT Hybrid
When we think about the best hybrid vehicles, what comes to mind are small, sleek cars that move quietly down the road. Needless to say, you wouldn’t think of a pickup truck. There have been several attempts to introduce the hybrid truck concept into the market. However, the idea of fuel economy and hybrid technology on big trucks is not too visible.
On the other hand, Toyota, the same car manufacturer behind the popular Prius hybrid, is breaking common notions. It has introduced a new hybrid truck, particularly the Toyota A-BAT. Aptly put, its name stands for “Advanced Breakthrough Aero Truck.” Toyota has announced that they are planning to introduce this to the mainstream market, but as of this writing, there is no news yet as to when production will start.
Notable Features of the Toyota A-BAT Hybrid
This truck has a laid-down cabin, accented angles, and a flat windshield. These features contribute significantly to the impeccable aerodynamics of the vehicle, making it look like a car at first glance. The A-BAT also has solar panels that collect energy from the sun, providing power for the navigation system.
In terms of environment-friendly features and fuel economy, the A-BAT is packed with the right technology that would help achieve these goals. It is expected to have Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive system combined with a four-cylinder motor. What’s more, this vehicle will use petrol motors that can offer up to 38% thermal efficiency.
Minivan: Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid
Generally speaking, if you are looking for a hybrid minivan, the Chrysler Pacifica is the ideal option. Among its notable qualities include composed handling, a smooth ride, and quick acceleration. The interior has a high-end design with features that are user-friendly and seats that are comfortable for the driver and the passengers.
What to Expect from the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid
The drivetrain of the Pacifica has two electric motors, a 3.6-litre V6 engine, and an automatic transmission. One key thing to remember is that the electric motors are capable of providing immediate torque by pressing the gas pedal. This means that you can expect quick acceleration from a stop. What’s more, the V6 can bring you to higher speeds on the freeway.
Among its rivals, the Pacifica hybrid can be considered the most fuel-efficient. On electric power alone, it can run for up to 33 miles, generating up to 84 mpg-e. With the V6 engine in full swing, fuel economy only falls to 32 mpg—a figure that is exceptional for any minivan.
The Pacifica Hybrid is designed for comfort, but it still ideally keeps its composure through turns, generating little body lean. This minivan won’t get sloppy even when you need to steer around an unprecedented hazard. Thanks to its light steering, it is easy to manoeuvre this vehicle even around tight spaces. It is a standard for Pacifica Hybrid units to have a front-wheel drive. While hybrid cars have vague mushiness on the brakes, this vehicle’s regenerative brakes have more friction.
Sedan: Toyota Camry Hybrid
Compared to other mid-sized hybrids, the Toyota Camry is a better option. It offers better fuel economy while maintaining a smooth ride quality all day. There is plenty of space for the passengers and driver, making the cabin comfortable. Apart from that, Toyota moved the battery under the rear seat, providing the Camry Hybrid with a bigger cargo space than other hybrid sedans.
Notable Features of a Toyota Camry Hybrid
Its electric motor and the four-cylinder engine can generate up to 208 horsepower, making it one of the most powerful hybrid sedans on the market. For most driving situations, the Camry Hybrid can provide sufficient acceleration and power. On the other hand, the automatic transmission can be slow to shift on certain occasions.
On the highway, the LE trim can get up to 53 mpg while in the city, it gets 51 mpg. It is worth noting that the higher trims are less fuel-efficient, but they can still earn around 44 to 47 mpg. Since the Camry Hybrid offers better gas mileage, it can significantly save you money. You can expect to spend as little on gas as you would with a Toyota Prius.
We should not forget to mention that the Camry Hybrid does not offer the same level of performance as some of the sportiest mid-sized vehicles. On the other hand, it is more than a vehicle for running errands. The Camry Hybrid provides good handling on winding roads. Over most types of road surfaces, it can also generate a smooth ride. As a standard, Camry Hybrid units have a front-wheel drive.
So there you have it—four of the best hybrid vehicles that industry experts have been raving about! Here at Carused.jp, we also feature a good selection of hybrid cars. If you want to know more about them, contact us today!
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