SUV Hybrids

Whether you need to haul people, pets, gear, or any combination of the three, SUV hybrids work hard to contain fuel costs, while providing more versatility than typical hybrid sedans.

Part and parcel to our role as the Internet’s leading independent authority on gas mileage, we’re committed to the task of documenting each and every hybrid SUV currently on the road by the end of 2008. As of August 2008, we’ve reviewed the following vehicles:

• Ford Escape Hybrid SUV
• Lexus RX400h Hybrid SUV
• Saturn Vue Green Line Hybrid SUV
• Toyota Highlander Hybrid SUV

Each one of these SUV hybrids is an excellent vehicle in its own right. Each takes a different approach.

The Escape Hybrid is a more traditional SUV with the best overall mileage in its class, while the RX400h is a roomy and comfortable living room on wheels. These two play opposite ends of the utility and luxury scale.

The Vue Green Line has European roots and flair, with unique styling, segment-topping highway gas mileage, and a more car-like ride.

The roomy and versatile Toyota Highlander Hybrid delivers the best overall gas mileage for a seven passenger SUV.

Over the following months, if all goes well, we’ll schedule the Cadillac Escalade Hybrid, Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid, Chrysler Aspen Hybrid, Dodge Durango Hybrid, and Mercury Mariner Hybrid … along with second-gen units as they are available.

We’re most intrigued by the possibilities of plug-in hybrid SUVs. If an owner-modded plug-in Prius is capable of 100 miles per gallon (MPG), we’d hope to see a modded Escape Hybrid deliver similar numbers.

While only time will tell what the aftermarket has planned, we plan to be there to tell the tale and we hope you’ll come along for the ride …