2008’s Top 10 Hybrids & AFVs
2008 Toyota Prius
Ten years ago Toyota debuted the world’s most popular and well-loved
hybrid. Not only does the superb fuel economy just yell “smart
eco-driver,” the interior space, fast response and comfy ride makes
everyday life easier and easier on the wallet, as well. MSRP is
discounted at $1,225 off the 2007 base model, while the 2008 standard
Prius lists for $20,950.
2008 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid
The Malibu Hybrid has certainly drawn rave reviews so far. Buyers like
the interior, the exterior and its anticipated fuel economy–and that’s
why it’s on this list. With a MSRP of $22,790, the 2.4L Ecotec Malibu
hybrid is rated at 32 mpg highway/24 city.
2008 Nissan Altima Hybrid
Nissan’s first hybrid is a serious contender in the fast-growing hybrid
sector. Stylish, sporty, fun to drive and easy on the gas (35/33). With
a base starting price of $25,070, Nissan offers a variety of packages to
spruce up this set of wheels.
2008 Chevrolet Tahoe 2-Mode Hybrid
GM’s awesome 2-mode system makes a full size SUV. With 332 hp it still
pulls in 2008 EPA ratings that put both the 2WD and 4WD in the 20-21 mpg
range. It has an impressive 40 percent fuel mileage improvement over the
standard models. Starting price on this guy is $50,490.
2008 Mercury Mariner Hybrid FWD SUV
The Mariner Hybrid has a 2.3-liter, 16-valve four-cylinder engine and
electric motor powertrain. The Mariner does everything the Ford Escape
does, but with just a bit more flair. EPA fuel economy estimates are 34
city/30 highway. The base front-wheel drive model starts at $26,430,
while the loaded Hybrid Premium Package, won’t break the bank at $31,000.
2008 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 4WD Flex-fuel
Tough, yet comfy, and outfitted for hard work and efficiency, this
Silverado offers dual-fuel status (E85/gasoline) in a 315 HP engine with
338 ft-lbs of torque. Equipped with Active Fuel Management, it has an
EPA rating of 14/19 and has a starting price of $34,710.
2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee
With a powerful 3.0-liter V6 CRD turbo diesel engine bearing a Mercedes
imprint and capability to use B5 biodiesel for an alt fueler by default,
you can’t go wrong with the Cherokee. With 215 hp and 2008 EPA ratings
of 17/22, it’s a great family or utility vehicle. Jeep has extended the
availability of the CRD engine to the Laredo model which starts at
$35,685, and they’ve discounted the Limited and Overland diesels by
$1000 for the 2008 model year.
2008 Ford Escape Hybrid FWD SUV
One of the most fuel efficient SUVs on the planet with 155 horsepower,
2.3-liter, 16-valve four-cylinder engine and electric motor powertrain
that has a great power-to-fuel-consumption ratio. The $25,740 Escape is
comfortable, stylish and accommodating for the whole family. With EPA
fuel economy estimates of 34 city/30 highway, there is a choice between
front-wheel or four-wheel drive.
2008 Honda Civic Hybrid
The Civic Hybrid is spunky and attractive along with 110 hp, 1.3-liter
4-cylinder engine and hybrid system that comes with a top-notch EPA
rating of 49/51 and clean AT-PZEV emissions. The Civic offers plenty of
bang for the $22,600 base price.
2008 Honda Civic GX NGV
The Civic GX NGV is the cleanest internal combustion engine in
production today. At 113 horsepower and 109 ft-lbs of torque it’ll leave
a smile on your face—after all, natural gas notoriously rings in less
expensive than gasoline. And that tax credit slices a nice chunk off the
$24,590 base price.