2012 Latest Hybrid Suv’s Round-up

GMC YUKON HYBRID

BODY TYPE: SUV
    TECHNOLOGY: Hybrid
    BASE MSRP: $51,600

The GMC Yukon Hybrid full-size SUV launched a new generation of big vehicles with the greener technlogy . This Hybrid Suv available with either two- or four-wheel drive, there are two trim levels available. The base Yukon Hybrid has a starting price of $51,610 for the 2WD model; $54,420 for the 4WD. The lavishly appointed Yukon Denali Hybrid 2WD starts at $58,925; the 4WD at $61,770. Other than an updated touch-screen navigation radio that includes a USB port and the ability to record broadcast audio, there are no changes to the Yukon Hybrid for model year 2012.

CADILLAC ESCALADE HYBRID

    BODY TYPE: SUV
    TECHNOLOGY: Hybrid
    BASE MSRP: $73,000

The Escalade Hybrid shares the same hybrid system which is used in the Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC’s Yukon hybrid SUVs. The hybrid hardware combines a modified 6.0-liter, 332-horsepower V8 gasoline engine, a 300-volt nickel-metal hydride battery pack and a two mode hybrid transmission that includes two 50-kilowatt motor generators. In order to keep the vehicle running at peak efficiency, this hybrid system is able to run in one of two separate modes—hence the name “two-mode hybrid.”During low-speed, low-impact driving, the powertrain works just like other hybrids, it stops the V8 engine whenever possible so that it may draw power from one or both of the electric motors. With a deft foot on the go pedal, the big SUV can travel under electric power for around two miles at up to 35 mph.

PORSCHE CAYENNE S HYBRID

BODY TYPE: SUV
    TECHNOLOGY: Hybrid
    BASE MSRP: $69,000

The Porsche Cayenne was all new for 2011 and there are no significant changes for the 2012 model year. But it does receive some new features, such as blind spot monitoring, upgraded carpeting for seatbacks and cargo area and body colored wheel arch extensions. Base price for the 2012 Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid is $69,000, a $1,300 increase from last year.

TOYOTA HIGHLANDER HYBRID

  BODY TYPE:SUV
    TECHNOLOGY:Hybrid
    BASE MSRP:$38,100

The gas-electric Highlander was outfitted last year with a 3.5-liter V-6 engine, replacing the 3.3-liter six of its predecessors. The dual-overhead cam Atkinson-cycle engine (a more fuel-efficient version of the traditional four-stroke Otto-cycle engine) is rated at 231-horsepower. In addition, two electric motors join this powertrain, one in the front and one in the rear, boosting the overall horsepower to a very respectable 280. There is a third electric motor that operates solely as an engine starter. The whole system is connected to a continuously variable transmission, which is engineered to manage the various sources of power in a way that maximizes the Highlander Hybrid’s efficiency.

LEXUS RX 450H

BODY TYPE:SUV
    TECHNOLOGY:Hybrid
    BASE MSRP:$45,200

Electronic adjustment of Lexus RX 450h when combined with the V-6 is an EPA fuel mileage rating of 32/28 city/highway and 30 combined for the FWD model, while the AWD version has estimates of 30/28/29. That’s the best fuel economy of any luxury SUV available – gasoline, diesel or hybrid.

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