MPG-o-Matic Pontiac Vibe AWD Review Summary: The 2009 Pontiac Vibe AWD is one of the most affordable and thrifty AWD cars sold in America. The Vibe shares its underpinnings with the Toyota Matrix. Both the Vibe and Matrix are built in the same Fremont, CA auto plant.
If you’re looking for a small all-wheel-drive vehicle with unique styling, the 2009 Pontiac Vibe AWD just might be playing your tune.
MPG-o-Matic Chevy Tahoe Hybrid Review Summary: The 2009 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid is a traditional truck-based full-size three-row SUV with a big difference. The Tahoe Hybrid’s two-mode hybrid system functions as promised, delivering a substantial jump in fuel economy when compared to the conventional Tahoe.
Make no mistake about it. The 2009 Chevy Tahoe Hybrid is a great big truck that integrates some innovative technology. With room for eight and plenty of hauling power, the traditional Tahoe has been a popular choice for large active families. The new two-mode hybrid system provides considerable benefits in lower-speed operation – whether you’re cruising through town or crawling through the parking lot at the local sports complex.
We’ve just spent a week’s time with a 2009 Chevy Tahoe Hybrid. When the big SUV crept out of the driveway for the last time earlier today, I was still trying to get my head around the target market. While the Tahoe Hybrid delivers significantly improved fuel economy over the conventional version, it does so at a price. At today’s lower gas prices, it would seem that the added cost of the hybrid drive train presents a roadblock to sales. But just hours after giving up the keys to our blue granite metallic test unit, I saw my first Tahoe Hybrid in the wild – and in our town, no less – while performing after-school family taxi duties.
A quick trip to eBay is an indicator of the current level of discounting. At least one dealer was slashing seven thousand dollars off the Tahoe Hybrid’s MSRP. Buyers can also expect another $2,200 off for the federal hybrid tax credit.
It can take a while to get accustomed to driving the Tahoe Hybrid. Stomping on the accelerator pedal from a standing start is an interesting experience, to say the least. In this video, the system is in Auto Stop mode, with the engine off, as it launches.
MPG-o-Matic Mitsubishi Outlander XLS Review Summary: . The 2009 Mitsubishi Outlander XLS is among the most sporting of the mid-size Sport Utility Vehicles (SUV), with a rally-inspired design that provides real four-wheel-drive, magnesium paddle shifters, and an optional 650-watt Rockford Fosgate audio system.
All 2009 Mitsubishi Outlander ES and SE models are equipped with a 2.0 liter 4-cylinder engine, producing 168 horsepower (HP) and 167 foot-pounds of torque. The more sporting Outlander XLS is equipped with a 3.0-liter V6, producing 220 HP and 204 foot-pounds of torque. The 2.0-liter is fitted with a CVT, while the 3.0-liter V6 earns a well-suited six-speed automatic transmission.
MPG-o-Matic Audi A4 Quattro Review Summary: . Redesigned for 2009, the stylish Audi A4 Sedan Quattro hits the mark among relatively affordable all-wheel-drive (AWD) luxury sedans. With rock-solid handling, a responsive throttle, a wonderful cabin, and a world-class multimedia system, this just might be the car that gets you to say goodbye to that SUV for good.
The 2009 AWD Audi A4 Quattro Sedan can be equipped with either a turbocharged 2.0 liter 4-cylinder engine, or a 3.2 liter direct-injected six. The 2.0 liter can be fitted to either a 6-speed manual or Tiptronic automatic transmission, while the 3.2 liter is only available with the Tiptronic. A Multitronic CVT automatic transmission is available in the front-wheel drive model, for those so inclined.