2012 Hybrid Cars: Who’s In?

Want to find out about the latest 2012 Hybrid Cars? The influx of hybrid car manufacturers amidst the call of environment friendly autos gives shoppers the freedom to choose the best cars for their needs. Here’s a birds-eye-view of reviews, test drives and auto ratings of whats available in the market today.

2012 FORD FUSION HYBRID

The Fusion Hybrid is considered one of the best hybrid cars in the industry due to its superb performance, fuel economy and high-tech interior. Although it’s specs are considered fairly conventional by hybrid standards, the mix of motor paired with batteries acting as an electronic continuously variable transmission (eCVT) gives the sedan an edge — a V6 powered car but with the fuel of a four cylinder.

The integration of the company’s hybrid hardware is outstanding. Shifting from electric to gas power is very smooth. Fusion can speed up to 47 mph on sole battery power and can almost reach up to 700 miles of driving on a single tank of gas.

2012 CHEVROLET VOLT

The Chevrolet Volt is one of the best hybrid upscale mid-size cars due to its impressive fuel economy. It is an electric car that is quite unique a it runs on two sources of energy namely a battery and a gas generator. It’s electric source sans lithium-ion battery can let you drive without gas for about 25-50 miles (40-80 km). When it’s batteries run low, it’s built in gas generator allows an additional 375 miles of driving on a full tank.

2012 HYUNDAI SONATA HYBRID

The Sonata Hybrid ranks as one of the top hybrid performing cars for it’s good economy on fuel, smooth transmission and other standard capabilities adding value among the hybrids.

It has the technology and fuel saving capacity and still be on budget. It has been priced less than most of its competitors. Using lithium polymer batteries for it’s electric propulsion system and a responsive interface with solid navigation, phone and audio system makes it up as a great affordable mid-size car.

2012 TOYOTA CAMRY HYBRID

The Toyota Camry Hybrid is a family sedan with enhanced driving dynamics coupled with fuel economy. It has a powerful 2.5 liter four cylinder engine that when combined to it’s electric drive motor produces up to a total of 200 horsepower. It’s regenerative braking system is improved from it’s older models thus, converting more of its braking energy into electricity. It also has a web-based Entune system integrating its audio, navigation system and infotainment features.

2012 TOYOTA PRIUS

The 2012 Prius has excellent fuel economy ratings making it a top car for buyers whose priority is fuel efficiency. For 2012, Toyota introduces the all new Prius plug-in. Battery can be charged in a standard wall outlet. Recharging within a three hour period or less depending on the voltage of the outlet is a plus. The Prius is a car built with a spacious trunk, high-tech electronics and a comfortable ride. Definitely, a car to test drive.

2012 TOYOTA PRIUS V

The Toyota Prius V allows you to own a hybrid — fuel economy matched with a roomier car. It’s spacious backseats and trunk provides the necessary ingredients for a lifestyle that demands the practicality of a wagon.

It uses the same 1.8 liter Atkinson-cycle engine, nickel hydride battery packed with a combined output of 134 horsepower. Toyota’s new Entune infotainment system is made available in the Prius V.

2012 HONDA CIVIC HYBRID

The Civic Honda hybrid is considered an affordable small hybrid car in the market today. It has improved its fuel economy ratings compared to its predecessors. Although the civic hybrid is a good car, some have commented on its interior — one being quite similar to it’s outgoing model. However, one can note that its fuel economy ratings have gone up and has improved its standard features, to name some: power windows and doors, bluetooth, a tilt and telescopic steering wheel.

Although its interior space has increased making it more roomy, reviews and test drives say that it is predictable. The Honda Civic Hybrid is a commuter car and shoppers in the market for something solid and dependable with fuel efficiency in mind should consider this hybrid.

2012 HONDA CR-Z

The Honda CR-Z is a typical hybrid car. It has a great performance being a hybrid but not so practical if your primary concern is fuel consumption since its fuel economy ratings are lower than the other hybrids in the market.

As an affordable small car, its the only hybrid that seats two people. It has a limited cargo space and poor rear visibility as reviewed by most but its interior suggests a sporty environment. As it is a reasonably priced hybrid, this is the car for shoppers who is in the market for a good performing hybrid and does not mind its lower fuel ratings.

2012 MITSUBISHI i

The Mitsubishi i is considered the least priced hybrid in the market today but with its own share of compromises.

It is a compact car that runs less than 70 horsepower which is good solely for city driving. It has no gas tank, thus, producing zero on the road emissions. A 100% electric powered car, Mitsubishi offers an 8-year, 100,000 mile limited warranty on its battery. However, just like any typical electric car owner, it has it share of problems with charging. A Charging station or a wall outlet will take hours to charge a car. Moreover, access to public charging stations is limited based on infrastructure that supports electric vehicle charging. So unless, areas have these in place, it’ll be difficult for driving anywhere outside its range.

2012 HONDA INSIGHT

The 2012 Honda Insight is a hybrid for customers without the high price tag attached to it. It’s 1.3 liter i-VTEC engine is highly efficient and boosts of its 4-cylinder engine that is equipped with a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

This car is considered one of the most fuel efficient and affordable hybrids today. It has a futuristic look on the interiors and has a good room for cargo. One unique feature is its Eco Assist that makes the driver aware of his driving style and thus helps you get the most out of your car to enhance efficiency.

2012 KIA OPTIMA HYBRID

The Kia Optima hybrid is a good value car for its high tech features such as rear view camera, satellite radio and other gadgets. The hybrid is a 2.4 liter direct injected gasoline engine and is combined with a lithium ion battery that runs up to 40 horsepower. A combined engine and battery gives out 206 horsepower. However, some reviews suggest improvements on the car especially on its transition between gas and electric motor. Some drivers say the brakes are not that responsive to pedal pressure which gives a concern on safety.

Overall, if you’re shopping for something high tech and stylish and performance is not the sole reason for purchasing a hybrid then this car is a good choice.