Fortunately, for those environmentally conscious consumers who aren’t quite willing to give up the utility and commanding driving position that multi-activity vehicles (MAVs, also known as SUVs) offer, a handful of midsize crossover models make the 2008 AEI Top 30 list—including one luxury model, the Lexus RX 400h.
2008 Ford Escape Hybrid
The 2008 model year marks the eighth year of production for the Ford Escape compact sport utility vehicle (SUV), which shares its platform with the Mercury Mariner as well as the Mazda Tribute.
For 2008, the Escape has received an exterior freshening while a new interior adds innovative storage, improved overall quietness, and an industry first: seating fabrics made from 100-percent recycled materials. The Hybrid uses a 2.3-liter 4-cylinder gas engine that features Atkinson-cycle combustion to produce 133 hp. A 70-kilowatt electric motor adds boost to the drive wheels under maximum power. Combined output is 155 hp, but acceleration is equivalent to the Escape V-6. The only transmission offered on the Hybrid is the continuously variable transmission (CVT). The front-wheel-drive (FWD) Ford Escape Hybrid achieves fuel economy of 34 mpg city/30 mpg highway, while the four-wheel-drive (4WD) model gets 29 mpg city/27 mpg highway, according to the EPA.
Learn more about the 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid
2008 Lexus RX 400h
The 2008 Lexus RX 400h Hybrid is virtually unchanged from 2007.Consumers can choose a 2008 Lexus RX 400h Hybrid in either FWD or AWD. The RX 400h Hybrid has virtually the same options as the RX 350, and the 5-passenger crossover SUV can be optioned up with five different packages, including extra towing capability. The 2008 Lexus RX 400h Hybrid is powered by a 3.3-liter, 24-valve, 4-cam V-6 engine with variable valve timing with intelligence (VVT-i) and electric drive motors that combine to produce 268 horsepower. EPA fuel-economy estimates for the RX 400h Hybrid FWD are 27 mpg city/24 mpg highway, while the AWD model gets an EPA-estimated 26 mpg city/24 mpg highway. It is classified as a Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (SULEV) by the EPA.
Learn more about the 2008 Lexus RX 400h
2008 Mercury Mariner Hybrid
Revisions to the restyled 2008 Mercury Mariner Hybrid include extensive work to reduce NVH (noise, vibration and harshness) levels within the redesigned cabin. Laminated windshields, thicker interior carpeting, new windshield moldings, and low-profile windshield wipers are just some of the changes that make all 2008 Mariners 12-percent quieter on the highway, according to Mercury. The hybrid-electric Mariner is powered by a 2.3-liter 4-cylinder engine rated at 133 hp and assisted by a 70-kilowatt electric motor. EPA fuel-economy estimates for the hybrid are 34 mpg city/27 mpg highway. Front-wheel drive is standard, with Mercury’s 4WD system optional, both drivetrains connected to a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Mercury Mariner models are covered by a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile drivetrain and roadside assistance warranty.
Learn more about the 2008 Mercury Mariner Hybrid
2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
The original Toyota Highlander hybrid was the world’s first gas/electric motor in a 7-passenger SUV. Redesigned for 2008 and bigger both inside and out, the current Highlander Hybrid comes in base or Limited trim levels and only with electronic on-demand 4WD. It pairs a 3.3-liter V-6 engine with 209 horsepower and 212 lb.-ft. of torque to a high-torque electric drive motor-generator that’s been improved for 2008. Combined, the total net power for the Highlander is 270 hp. EPA fuel-economy ratings for the Highlander Hybrid are 27 mpg city/25 mpg highway.
Learn more about the 2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
More Research
2008 Automotive Environmental Index
2008 AEI Subcompact Cars
2008 AEI Compact Cars
2008 AEI Midsize Cars
What To Drive: MPG and the Environment Edition
2008 Initial Quality Study Results
