By John Addison (updated 1/25/12; original 11/23/11)

All-wheel drivers may soon get record fuel economy. Mitsubishi is showing a crossover SUV with AWD in Tokyo which is likely to go on sale U.S. in 2012 or 2013. The MITSUBISHI PX-MiEVⅡ is a midsized plug-in hybrid (PHEV) with a 500-mile cruising range. The PX-MiEV is a 5-door, 7-passenger SUV with all-wheel drive.

Mitsubishi is the third biggest seller of electric cars after Nissan and General Motors. In Japan, over 5,000 drive its popular city car the MiEV. Now U.S. buyers are ordering the slightly larger Mitsubishi i that impressed me when doing a Mitsubishi versus Nissan LEAF test-drive comparison.

The Mitsubishi i with a starting price of $29,125 will appeal to many city drivers. Others however want a range of hundreds of miles not 62. Many want a car with more passenger and cargo space, leading Mitsubishi to start showing a new concept car in Tokyo which is likely to come to the U.S. in the future as a commercial EV.

The MITSUBISHI PX-MiEV Ⅱ is a small crossover SUV plug-in hybrid (PHEV) with a 500-mile cruising range. The PX-MiEVⅡ contains a powerful electric drivetrain derived from the popular MiEV that delivers the performance and quiet ride inherent to an EV. The PX-MiEV is a 5-door, 7-passenger SUV with all-wheel drive for better handling on wet and snowy roads. The Concept PX-MiEV uses a newly developed twin-motor four-wheel-drive system mated to Mitsubishi’s S-AWC (Super-All Wheel Control) advanced traction control system.

SUV that gets 141 Miles per Gallon and 500 Mile Range

This unique plug-in hybrid fuses EV technology derived from the i-MiEV with a small conventional engine to deliver a combined fuel efficiency (3) of more than 141 miles per gallon (60km per liter) and a range of about 500 miles between gasoline fill-ups.

This new concept SUV has a 30 mile all-electric mode range, meeting most daily needs of U.S. drivers without using any gasoline, just a garage electric charge. Depending on power consumption and remaining battery charge the system will start the engine automatically as a generator, and the engine can also be used to help drive the wheels as necessary. In addition, with the push of a button, the driver has the freedom to select Battery Drive Mode when he/she wishes to drive quietly in residential areas using pure EV power. At the same time, the driver can also switch to Battery Charge Mode while on the move, controlling use of battery power and using the engine as a generator to charge the batteries.

This electric SUV has a socket so that contractors can run power tools using energy stored in the PX-MiEV’s lithium battery pack or to run auxiliaries when camping. In addition, the quick-charge port is vehicle-to-home (V2H) compatible.

We look forward to the Mitsubishi PX-MiEV coming to America with its 500-mile range, SUV room inside, cargo flexibility, AWD safety, and power the auxiliaries we use in work and play.

Top 10 All-Wheel Drive Cars with Best Mileage

Top 10 Electric Cars and Plug-in Hybrids

MITSUBISHI Concept PX-MiEVⅡspecifications

• Overall length  4660 mm
• Overall width 1830 mm
• Overall height 1680 mm
• Occupants 7
• 2 Electric Motors  (front and rear)
• Type   Permanent magnet synchronous
• Max. Output   60kW each
• Engine  2.0L MIVEC 4-cylinder
•             Generating capacity  70kW
• Target motor-only driving range    > 30 miles (50 km)
• Target combined cruising range     > 500 miles (800 km)
• Target combined fuel efficiency      > 141 mpg (60 km/L)
• Electric Drivetrain      Twin-motor 4WD with S-AWC
• Tires   235/55R18

Mitsubishi PX-MiEV Plug-in Hybrid AWD SUV is a post from: Clean Fleet Report

By John Addison (11/17/11)

Just looking at this hot sports car invites you to get behind the wheel and leave this LA Auto Show and not stop until navigating breathtaking hairpin turns along the coast of Big Sur. The Audi e-tron Spyder is a convertible sports coupe with dramatic styling. At the moment it is a concept. Yet when Audi shows these types of concepts they normally become production cars.

The Audi e-tron Spyder is likely to be the first diesel plug-in hybrid car to be sold in the United States. With two electric motors and a 3 liter turbodiesel engine, this car has the power to race past the popular Chevy Volt. This Audi e-tron goes zero to 60 in 4.4 seconds. It is electronically governed to 155 miles per hour so that you don’t get too carried away. The Audi performance and styling will provide serious competition to Fisker.

Two electric motors with a combined output of 64 kW (87 hp) and 352 Nm (259.62 lb-ft) of torque propel the front wheels. Behind the open, two-seat passenger cell is a 3.0 TDI with twin turbochargers. It generates 221 kW (300 hp) and 650 Nm (479.42 lb-ft) of torque, which is distributed by the seven-speed S tronic to the rear wheels. A 9.1 kWh lithium-ion battery is located in the front.

No current all-wheel drive (AWD) car comes close to the mileage and low-emissions of this Audi e-tron. It is speced for 107 mpg and only 95 grams of CO2 per mile.

All four wheels of the e-tron Spyder can be accelerated and braked individually, creating extremely precise, dynamic handling. The electric motors on the front wheels can be activated separately and a mechanical sport differential on the rear axle distributes the power. This form of “torque vectoring” marks a new advanced stage of the quattro principle – the e-tron Quattro with superior all-wheel drive handling on wet and icy roads.

The short wheelbase and low weight, achieved above all thanks to the aluminum body using the Audi Space Frame (ASF) construction principle, further hone its sporty character; the axle load distribution is 50:50.

The electric range is 50 km (31.07 miles) and the top speed in that mode is 60 km/h (37.28 mph). With its 50-liter (13.21 US gallons) fuel tank, the open-top two-seater has a range of more than 1,000 km (621.37 miles).

Audi e-tron Spyder Diesel Plug-in Hybrid AWD is a post from: Clean Fleet Report

By John Addison (9/12/11)

Lexus RX 450h and AWD Review and Prices

Now you can have an excellent SUV without sacrificing premium features, comfort and good fuel economy. The Lexus RX450h is a stylish 5-seat, 5-door, SUV that delivers 28 miles per gallon (mpg) city, 32 highway, and 30 overall. For an extra $1,590 you can get the all-wheel drive (AWD) version for better handling on snow and ice and still get 28 city, 30 highway, and 29 overall.

The FWD 2011 Lexus RX 450h has a suggested starting price of $44,735 and the 2012 are $500 higher. The 2011 Lexus RX 450h AWD has a suggested starting price of $46,325 and the 2012 are $500 higher. Both models run about $6,000 more than their non-hybrid counterparts, the Lexus RX 350 FWD and AWD, but the 450h saves you 40 percent at the pump. If you can negotiate a good price on a dealer sale of the 2011 RX 450h, there’s no reason to wait for a 2012 model.

With this midsized premium SUV (Lexus brands this as luxury) you will enjoy a smooth and quiet ride. It does not have the sports car feel of the Lexus 200h or the acceleration Lexus 600h. This is a stylish SUV for those who enjoy room, comfort, and the Lexus status. With optional packages you can surround yourself with luxury appointments of leather and wood, up to 12 sound speakers, and dual display entertainment system for the back seat.

Seating is comfortable for five people. The rear cargo space is 40 cubic feet. Lower the back seat and you have 80 cubic feet – enough for home projects, lots of luggage, or a couple of bicycles.

Lexus Hybrid Drive System

The Lexus hybrid drive system is smart enough to know when to only use the electric motors, when to engage the 3.5 liter engine, and when to use both. The full series/parallel hybrid drive system is based on the Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive, a proven success in over 3 million Prius. The FWD has two electric motors. One acts as a generator, the other drives the front wheels. The AWD has a third electric motor for the rear wheels. Although Toyota Motors has switched to lithium batteries for its new electric cars, it is staying with the proven NiMH batteries for its Lexus hybrids.

Most of the time, you will probably want to be in Eco mode to save gas. Touch Normal for freeway acceleration or passing a slow truck on a two-lane road. EV mode will let you travel a short distance in silence with only the electric motor engaged, receiving electricity from the NiMH battery pack.

Safety

The Lexus RX is a top safety pick with the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Lexus RX safety features include:

•  Active headrests for front seats
•  Advanced technology airbag system Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) for driver and front passenger:
•  Driver dual-stage airbag uses factors including crash severity and seat track position to choose one of three possible deployment speeds.
•  Front passenger dual-stage twin-chamber airbag uses crash severity sensors to choose one of two deployment speeds. Airbag is designed to not deploy for passengers under 68.3 lbs. or when child seat is detected. (Advanced airbags in compliance with FMVSS208)
•  ALR/ELR seat belt retractors on all outboard-seating positions except driver (ELR only)
•  Brake pedal regression prevention mechanism helps reduce leg injuries in head-on impacts
•  Daytime Running Lights (DRL)
•  Driver and front passenger knee airbags
•  Enhanced side-impact protection
•  Enhanced-VSC (Vehicle Stability Control)
•  Force-limiting seatbelt pre-tensioners for the driver’s and front passenger’s seats
•  Four-sensor, four-channel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Brake Assist (BA)
•  Front and rear seat-mounted side airbags
•  High-strength sheet steel components
•  Roll-sensing front and rear side-curtain airbags
• Side impact door beams
•  Three-point seatbelts with pre-tensioners for outboard rear seating positions
•  Tire pressure monitoring system

The optional Premium package includes Lexus Enform® with Safety Connect®:

• Automatic Collision Notification,
• Stolen Vehicle Location,
• Emergency Assist Button (SOS),
• Enhanced Roadside Assistance,
• Destination Assist
• eDestination (Complimentary one-year trial subscription included)

The AWD version improves fuel economy with a part-time AWD. When accelerating from a stop or if front-wheel slippage is detected, the AWD system on the RX 450h is designed to electrically power the rear wheels, delivering up to 50 % of torque to the real wheels, helping to provide additional drive force to propel the vehicle forward.

Other SUVs with Good Fuel Economy

Ford Escape Hybrid is over $10,000 less than the Lexus RX 450h. The Ford Escape Hybrid delivers better FWD mileage with 32 mpg overall with and 29 mpg with AWD. A range of premium options are available for the Escape Hybrid.

Toyota Prius V Crossover SUV. Lexus is the premium/luxury brand of Toyota Motors. The Prius is becoming a brand family as well.  Going on sale in 2012 is the Prius v, which offers as much room for 5 people and even more cargo space flexibility than the Lexus RX450h. The fuel economy is wonderful for a crossover with 44 mpg city, 40 highway, 42 overall. Although the Prius V lacks the luxury styling and appointments of the Lexus RX 450h, it is likely to save you $15,000 purchase price. The Prius V does not have an AWD option.

Toyota Highlander Hybrid is a larger SUV that can seat up to 7 people and still deliver good fuel economy with 28/28/28 mpg. It is about $6,000 less than the Lexus RX 450h and comes standard with electronic on-demand 4WD. A well appointed Premium version is available.

Toyota RAV4 EV can be ordered from dealers in 2012. This 5-seat, 5-door SUV, has about the same passenger and cargo space as the Lexus RX450h. The new RAV4 EV is a pure battery-electric with an estimated range of 100 miles. You’ll never pay a nickel at the gas pump. Toyota has not yet published a price. Toyota owns 2% of Tesla, which is supplying the lithium battery pack and working with Toyota on the electric drive system.

2011 and 2012 Lexus RX 450h Specifications

EXTERIOR DIMENSIONS

• Wheelbase 107.9 in.
• Overall Length 187.8 in.
• Overall Width 74.2 in.
• Overall Height (unloaded) 66.3 in. (without roof rack)
• Tread Width – Front 64.2 in.
• - Rear 63.8 in.
• Ground Clearance 6.9 in.
• Approach Angle 28.5 deg. – FWD 28.6 – AWD
• Departure Angle 24.6 deg.
• Breakover Angle 14.4 deg.

INTERIOR DIMENSIONS

• Seating Capacity 5
• Headroom – Front (with moonroof) 39.1 in.
• - Rear 37.7 in.
• Legroom – Front 43.1 in.
• - Rear 36.8 in.
• Shoulder Room – Front 58.0 in.
• - Rear 57.6 in.
• Hip Room – Front 55.6 in.
• - Rear 54.5 in.
• Total Interior Volume 139.7 cu. ft.
• Cargo Volume – Rear seats up and rearmost 40.0 cu. ft.
• - Rear seats folded down 80.3 cu. ft.

WEIGHTS AND CAPACITIES

• Curb Weight 4,652 lbs. – AWD; 4,520 lbs. – FWD
• GVWR 5,974 lbs. – AWD; 5,765 lbs. – FWD
• Max Towing Capacity 3,500 lbs. (with appropriate hitch) – AWD
• Not Applicable – FWD
• Fuel Capacity 17.2 gal.

HYBRID POWER SYSTEM

Type Series/parallel system with gas engine and electric motors

Total System Power 295 hp

ENGINE

• Type, Materials V6, aluminum block and heads
• Designation 2GR-FXE
• Valvetrain DOHC 24-valve with VVT-i
• Displacement 3.5 liter
• Bore x Stroke 3.70 in. x 3.27 in.
• Compression Ratio 12.5:1
• Horsepower (SAE) 245 hp @ 6,000 rpm (not including hybrid drive)
• Torque 234 lb.-ft. @ 4,800 rpm (not including hybrid drive)
• Maximum Engine Speed (redline) 6,000 rpm
• Fuel System Port Fuel Injection (SFI)
• Fuel Requirement Performance numbers achieved with 91-octane unleaded fuel
• Emission Certification SULEV II (California); Tier 2 – Bin 3 (all other states)
• Evaporative Emission Certification Zero evap.

ELECTRIC MOTORS

• Motor Generator 1 (MG1) – Function Generator, engine starter, transmission ratio control
• - Type Permanent magnet motor
• - Max. voltage AC 650V
• Motor Generator 2 (MG2) – Function Drives front wheels, regenerative braking
• - Type Permanent magnet motor
• - Max. voltage AC 650V
• - Max. output 167 hp (123 kW)
• Motor Generator Rear (MGR) – Function Drives rear wheels, regenerative braking
• (AWD Model Only) – Type Permanent magnet motor
• - Max. voltage AC 650V
• - Max. output 68 hp (50 kW)

HYBRID BATTERY PACK

• Type Sealed Nickel Metal Hydride (Ni-MH)
• Nominal Voltage
• Power Output
• 288V
• 37 kW

DRIVETRAIN

• Layout Front gas engine with hybrid transaxle and front and rear electric drive motors, electric all-wheel drive
• Transaxle/Transmission Type Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission
• reduction and power splitting, electronic all- or frontwheel-drive control system
• Designation P313

CHASSIS AND BODY

• Body/Frame Unitized steel
• Suspension – Front MacPherson strut, coil springs
• - Rear Double wishbone type, coil springs
• Steering – Type Electric Power Steering (EPS): rack and pinion with
• electronic power assist
• - Overall Ratio 14.8:1
• - Turns (lock to lock) 2.79
• - Turning Circle (wall to wall) 40.0 feet
• Brake System Electronically Controlled Brake (ECB2) system with
• regenerative control and incorporating Anti-lock
• Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake force
• Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA) and Vehicle
• Dynamics Integrated Management system (VDIM)
• Brake Rotors – Front – type/diameter Ventilated disc/12.9 in.
• - Rear – type/diameter Disc/12.2 in.
• Anti-Lock Braking System 4 channel, 4 sensor
• Wheel Size/Type 18-in. x 7.5-in. (standard)
• 19-in. x 7.5-in. (optional)
• Tire Size/Type 235/60R18 (standard)
• 235/55VR19 (optional)
• Spare Tire/Wheel Compact

PERFORMANCE

• 0-60 mph Acceleration (mfg. results) FWD – 7.8 seconds AWD – 7.4 seconds
• 0-1/4 Mile Acceleration (mfg. results) FWD – 16.0 seconds AWD – 15.6 seconds
• Top Track Speed 112 mph – electronically limited
• EPA Estimated Fuel Economy* (City/Hwy/Combined) FWD – 32/28/30 AWD – 30/28/29
• Coefficient of Drag (Cd) 0.33

STANDARD EXTERIOR FEATURES

Overall Exterior Styling/Body Design

• 18-inch x 7.5-inch five-spoke aluminum wheels
• 235/60R18 tires
• Blue highlights added to front and rear “L” logo, engine cover, headlamp lens cover, rear combination lamp cover
• Front fog lamps integrated into bumper
• “HYBRID” badge incorporated on side molding of rear doors
• Integrated color-keyed rear spoiler with rear-windshield wiper
• LED brake and tail lights
• “Lexus Hybrid Drive” engine cover
• Pronounced wheel wells give rugged stance
• Rear privacy glass
• Rear tail light housings merged with back window glass
• Side mirrors with integrated LED turn signal lamps
• Standard integrated rear spoiler that hides windshield wiper mechanism
• Water-repellant front door glass

Body Structure and Paint

• Acoustic glass windshield to reduce noise
• Anti-chipping paint applied to rocker panels and wheel housing arch sections
• Exterior colors (9): Matador Red Mica, Tungsten Pearl, Nebula Gray Pearl, Obsidian, Satin Cashmere
• Metallic, Stargazer Black, Black Opal Mica, Cerulean Blue Metallic, Starfire Pearl
• High level of rust protection with zinc-plated steel on hood, doors and front fenders
• Highly rigid body, monocoque construction
• Measures to limit noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) have been applied throughout the vehicle
• Rear bumper protector
• Soft chip primer applied to hood for improved anti-chipping
• Sound insulation placed in door panels, instrument panel and floor mats
• UV-reducing glass used for all windows

Convenience Features

• Auto on/off headlamps
• Auto-dimming and foldable electro-chromic outside mirrors
• Heated outside mirrors
• Integrated front fog lamps
• Rear intermittent wiper
• SmartAccess key system
• Variable intermittent windshield wipers

STANDARD INTERIOR FEATURES

Interior Trim

• Carpeted floor mats (carpeted trunk mat optional)
• Chrome inside door handles
• Coat hooks
• Fabric covered sun visors with adjustable-illumination vanity mirrors and slide extensions
• Fabric-trim seats in Light Gray
• Genuine Walnut or Bird’s Eye Maple wood trim on console and switch plates
• Leather-trim three-spoke steering wheel and shift knob

Seats and Cargo Area

• 10-way power driver’s and front passenger’s seats: fore-aft slide; fore-aft recline; front vertical height; rear vertical height and power lumbar support
• Driver’s seat Easy Exit (auto away/return)
• Rear center arm rest with cupholders
• Rear seat one-touch fold levers
• Reclining/sliding fold-down rear seats with 40/20/40-split
• Tonneau cover for rear cargo area

Instrumentation and Controls

• Organic white Light-Emitting Diode (OLED) multi-information display
• Scheduled maintenance indicator light

CONVENIENCE FEATURES

• 12-volt power outlets (3): center console box (1), lower console area (1), cargo area (1)
• Assist grips: front (2), rear (2)
• Auto on/off headlights
• Automatic dual-zone climate control
• Center console with cupholders (2) and storage bin
• Courtesy lights mounted on doors
• Dust and pollen particle and deodorizing interior air filter
• Electrochromic rearview mirror with compass (without Navigation)
• First aid kit
• Front and rear map lights; cargo area light
• Front seatback pockets
• Incandescent dome light with white LED spot lights
• Incandescent foot lights
• LED illuminated center console and glove box
• Lexus Personalized Settings (LPS) to allow certain vehicle settings to be tailored by owner
• Manual front seatbelt anchor height adjusters
• Power door locks with anti lock-out feature
• Power tilt-and-telescopic steering column
• Power windows with one-touch auto up/down feature with jam protection for all windows
• Programmable garage door opener (HomeLink)
• Pull-out front door storage pockets
• Rear air conditioning vents mounted on rear of center console
• Steering wheel audio controls
• Tool kit

STANDARD AUDIO SYSTEM

• Lexus Premium Audio
• 9 speakers
• AM/FM antenna integrated into rear spoiler
• In-dash six-disc CD auto-changer
• Integrated SiriusXM Satellite Radio receiver (complimentary 90-day trial subscription included)

Security

• Entry system with lock, two-stage unlock, trunk open and “panic” features, volume-adjustable confirmation tone and rolling code technology
• Headlight off delay feature
• Multi-function SmartAccess remote with engine immobilizer and remote window “down” feature
• Remote-activated/key-linked illuminated entry: dome light and ignition key cylinder ring
• Safety Connect® with Automatic Collision Notification, Stolen Vehicle Location, Emergency Assist Button, and Enhanced Roadside Assistance (complimentary one-year trial subscription)
• Vehicle theft-deterrent system

FACTORY OPTIONS

• 19-inch split five-spoke wheels with All-Season 235/55/VR19 tires
• Bi-Xenon High Intensity Discharge (HID) projector headlamps with Adaptive Front-Lighting System (AFS)
• Heads-Up Display (AWD model only; Requires Navigation Package)
• Heated and ventilated front seats (Requires Premium Package)
• Intuitive Park Assist
• LED headlamps with headlamp washers, Adaptive Front-Lighting System (AFS) and Intelligent High Beams
• Mark Levinson® Audio System with 15 speakers and DVD changer (Requires Navigation Package)
• Pre-Collision System and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (AWD model only; Requires Premium or Luxury Package)
• Rearview mirror backup monitor (non-navigation equipped vehicles only)
• Towing hitch (AWD model only)
• Towing Package (AWD model only)
• Wood and leather-trimmed steering wheel and shift knob

Premium Package

• Driver’s seat memory – three settings (steering wheel, mirror, seat)
• Electrochromic outside mirror (auto-dimming)
• iPod® headunit control / USB
• Leather-trimmed seats
• One-touch open/close, tilt and slide moonroof
• Power rear door
• Rear armrest storage w/lid

Luxury Package (Requires Comfort and Navigation Packages and LED Headlights) AWD models only Includes all Premium Package contents plus:

• 19-inch split five-spoke wheels
• Auto recirculation
• Front seat cushion extender
• Illuminated scuff plates (front only)
• Power retractable outer mirror
• Semi-aniline leather-trimmed seating
• Wide-view front monitor system
• Wood and leather-trimmed steering wheel and shift knob

Comfort Package (Requires Premium or Luxury Package; and Bi-Xenon High Intensity Discharge (HID) projector headlamps or LED headlamps with headlamp washers)

• 12 Speaker Premium Audio System
• Auto wipers (Rain-Sensing)
• Heated and ventilated front seats
• Navigation Package (Requires Premium Package)
• Backup monitor
• Bluetooth® hands free phone and phonebook download capabilities
• HDD Navigation (Generation 6 system)
• Lexus Enform® with Safety Connect®: Automatic Collision Notification, Stolen Vehicle Location, Emergency Assist Button (SOS), Enhanced Roadside Assistance, Destination Assist, and eDestination (Complimentary one-year trial subscription included)
• Lexus Insider™
• NavTraffic, NavWeather, Sports, and Stocks (complimentary one-year trial subscription included)
• Remote Touch Navigation controller
• Voice command casual-language voice recognition system
• Dual-Screen Rear Seat Entertainment with Navigation (Includes Navigation Package)
• 120V AC outlet in rear passenger compartment
• Audio/video inputs
• Dual wireless headphones
• DVD rear seat entertainment system

Lexus RX 450h – Excellent Hybrid SUV with Optional AWD is a post from: Clean Fleet Report

By John Addison (8/22/11)

The new 2012 Subaru Impreza delivers the best mileage of any all-wheel drive vehicle sold in the U.S. – 27-mpg city and 36-mpg highway. Even the hybrid AWD from Ford and Lexus cannot touch this fuel economy. You don’t have to be a professional driver with a stick shift to get this mileage, the Impreza gets this mileage with its new CVT automatic transmission.

Remember last winter’s miserable roads and high gas prices. The Impreza addresses both with better mileage in 2012, more rear seat and cargo room, and new options.

Available as either a compact 5-door hatchback or 4-door sedan, the Impreza is designed to give the vehicle better traction by delivering power to all four wheels. The AWD handling is designed to get you to your snow board / ski resort in the winter, off-road hike and bike spots in the summer, and get to school and work when snow and ice intimidates other drivers. Unlike many compacts, the Impreza wheel wells give you adequate room to put on chains when required.

The new Subaru can save you hundreds of dollars annually in fuel costs with no increase in the base price of $17,495 for the sedan with a five-speed stick. A hatchback with automatic starts at $18,995. As with any car there is a delivery fee and appealing options. The price is suggested to the dealers. You get to shop and negotiate. Dealer sales are expected to start this November.

The 5-door hatchback is popular with people on the go, as I witnessed Saturday at a triathlon competition. Imprezas and other Subaru’s were being unloaded in both asphalt and gravel parking lots. Open the hatch, lower the back seat, and you can slide in a bicycle or two, camping gear, boards, equipment, you name it.

The new 2.0L BOXER engine makes this the most fuel-efficient AWD vehicle in the U.S.  With a huge 30% improvement over the 2011 Impreza, this new AWD delivers 148 horsepower. The new CVT transmission relieves the average driver from clutching and shifting. Paddle shifting is there for those who like to make quick shifts uphill, downhill, and when passing.

All Subaru models are AWD and all are Top Safety Picks by the IIHS. From symmetrical all-wheel drive to electronic anti-lock braking system, Subaru makes safety a priority. At 2,950 pounds, the  Impreza is not as heavy as the former AWD mileage champ the Ford Focus Hybrid 4WD and over $10,000 cheaper. Both vehicles score high on safety. The Escape has more weight; the Impreza, a lower center of gravity for control in the slippery curves.

Whether you are a first time car buyer, first time parent, or first time AWD buyer, the Impreza deserves a test drive from active drivers who want to be ready to go anywhere in challenging road conditions.

All-Wheel Drive Cars with Best Mileage

2012 Subaru Impreza the Best Mileage AWD is a post from: Clean Fleet Report

By John Addison (8/1/11)

54.5 mpg Fuel Efficiency Standard will save U.S. drivers $1.7 trillion at the pump by 2025

President Obama announced a historic agreement with thirteen major automakers to increasing fuel economy to 54.5 miles per gallon for cars and light-duty trucks by Model Year 2025. This will save U.S. drivers $1.7 trillion in fuel costs with today’s oil prices of about $100 per barrel. If the price of oil is higher in 2025, consumers will save more.

The President was joined by Ford, GM, Chrysler, BMW, Honda, Hyundai, Jaguar/Land Rover, Kia, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Toyota and Volvo. Fuel economy will help automakers lower the lifetime cost of operating cars. By 2025, new cars will average the fuel economy of today’s popular Prius Liftback. Next year, Toyota will already start selling cars with better MPG than the classic Prius including the Prius Plug-in Hybrid, Prius C, and RAV4 EV.

Toyota is now scrambling to hold its fuel-economy lead as scramble to up their forecast for the Nissan Leaf, Chevrolet Volt, Ford Focus Electric, and Honda Fit Electric just to name a few new electric cars.

Ten Million Electric Cars

Forecasts of 10 million electric cars by 2020 in the U.S. look more likely. High volumes will lower the cost of lithium battery packs and electric motors, which are also used in hybrids. By 2013, at least one of these automakers will sell 100,000 electric cars and hybrids in one year – Toyota, GM, Nissan, and Ford.

New fuel efficiency and emission standards will make it easier for automakers to build drive systems and cars for the global market where fuel is often more expensive and high MPG necessary to gain market share. Ford has taken a lead is saving billions with global car platforms and in improving fuel economy by shaving hundreds of pounds of vehicle weight. Heavy metal is increasingly replaced with stronger metals and composites. Electric drive systems can support lighter electric accessories instead of mechanical devices.

Consumer savings is real. My wife and I have been driving our Nissan LEAF for three months. Last month, our electricity cost to fuel the car for a month was the same as one gasoline fill-up of our other car, a hybrid. OK, we we’re on vacation part of the month. Next month the electricity bill may be the same as 2 fill-ups.  That electricity is not from foreign oil, it is from local generation with natural gas, wind, solar, other renewables, and yes, 20% nuclear.

“This agreement on fuel standards represents the single most important step we’ve ever taken as a nation to reduce our dependence on foreign oil,” said President Obama. ”Most of the companies here today were part of an agreement we reached two years ago to raise the fuel efficiency of their cars over the next five years. We’ve set an aggressive target and the companies are stepping up to the plate. By 2025, the average fuel economy of their vehicles will nearly double to almost 55 miles per gallon.”

The new builds on the existing agreement for Model Years 2012-2016 vehicles, which will raise fuel efficiency to 35.5 mpg and begin saving families money at the pump this year, the next round of standards will require performance equivalent to 54.5 mpg or 163 grams/ mile of CO2 for cars and light-duty trucks by Model Year 2025. Achieving the goals of this historic agreement will rely on innovative technologies and manufacturing that will spur economic growth and create high-quality domestic jobs in cutting edge industries across America.

Truck and SUV Drivers to Save

These programs, combined with the model year 2011 light truck standard, represent the first meaningful update to fuel efficiency standards in three decades and span Model Years 2011 to 2025. Together, they will save American families $1.7 trillion dollars in fuel costs, and by 2025 result in an average fuel savings of over $8,000 per vehicle. Additionally, these programs will dramatically cut the oil we consume, saving a total of 12 billion barrels of oil, and by 2025 reduce oil consumption by 2.2 million barrels a day – as much as half of the oil we import from OPEC every day.

People buying all wheel drive SUVs and trucks to deal with snow and ice will finally see real fuel economy improvements.

The standards also curb carbon pollution, cutting more than 6 billion metric tons of greenhouse gas over the life of the program – more than the amount of carbon dioxide emitted by the United States last year. The oil savings, consumer, and environmental benefits of this comprehensive program are detailed in a new report entitled Driving Efficiency: Cutting Costs for Families at the Pump and Slashing Dependence on Oil, which the Administration released today.

The program would increase the stringency of standards for passenger cars by an average of five percent each year. The stringency of standards for pick-ups and other light-duty trucks would increase an average of 3.5 percent annually for the first five model years and an average of five percent annually for the last four model years of the program, to account for the unique challenges associated with this class of vehicles.

“This is another important step toward saving money for drivers, breaking our dependence on imported oil and cleaning up the air we breathe,” said EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson. “American consumers are calling for cleaner cars that won’t pollute their air or break their budgets at the gas pump, and our innovative American automakers are responding with plans for some of the most fuel efficient vehicles in our history.”

A national policy on fuel economy standards and greenhouse gas emissions provides regulatory certainty and flexibility that reduces the cost of compliance for auto manufacturers while addressing oil consumption and harmful air pollution. Consumers will continue to have access to a diverse fleet and can purchase the vehicle that best suits their needs.

EPA and NHTSA are developing a joint proposed rulemaking, which will include full details on the proposed program and supporting analyses, including the costs and benefits of the proposal and its effects on the economy, auto manufacturers, and consumers. After the proposed rules are published in the Federal Register, there will be an opportunity for public comment and public hearings. The agencies plan to issue a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking by the end of September 2011. California plans on adopting its proposed rule in the same time frame as the federal proposal.

Given the long time frame at issue in setting standards for MY2022-2025 light-duty vehicles, EPA and NHTSA intend to propose a comprehensive mid-term evaluation. Consistent with the agencies’ commitment to maintaining a single national framework for vehicle GHG and fuel economy regulation, the agencies will conduct the mid-term evaluation in close coordination with California.

In achieving the level of standards described above for the 2017-2025 program, the agencies expect automakers’ use of advanced technologies to be an important element of transforming the vehicle fleet. The agencies are considering a number of incentive programs to encourage early adoption and introduction into the marketplace of advanced technologies that represent “game changing” performance improvements, including:

• Incentives for electric vehicles, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, and fuel cells vehicles
• Incentives for advanced technology packages for large pickups, such as hybridization and other performance-based strategies
• Credits for technologies with potential to achieve real-world CO2 reductions and fuel economy improvements that are not captured by the standards test procedures.

Electric Cars and Hybrid Cars to be helped by 54 MPG CAFE is a post from: Clean Fleet Report

Excerpt from the Prologue of Save Gas, Save the Planet: John Addison’s book about hybrid and electric cars, pathways to low carbon driving, and the future of sustainable transportation. © 2009 John Addison. All rights reserved.

Magical Solutions

As a small child, I was distraught to learn that Santa Claus was not the person that I imagined. And after reading Harry Potter, I searched the Internet trying to book a stay at Hogwarts. We want to believe in magic.

When I tell people that I write about clean transportation, they often lecture me about their one magical solution. Some tell me it is the plug-in hybrid; some say diesel. One fellow was angry that I did not immediately accept that the one answer is railroads. Another felt the same way about motorcycles.

Some believe that the answer is electric vehicles. Others believe that electric vehicles will only encourage people to use cars without guilt; these enthusiasts want car-free cities and zero suburbs. Some promote ethanol; still more don’t believe that the answer is converting food to fuel.

Some believe that the future is a hydrogen economy; others believe that hydrogen is an evil conspiracy. Some believe that energy efficiency is everything. Others will take 10-percent efficient solar power over 40-percent coal power any day. Too many people argue that there is no problem. These people do not like change. Surprisingly, the people who do not lecture me are those who walk, bike, and live car-free. Perhaps these people, free from the stress of driving in gridlock, are more flexible and optimistic.

Even the friendly walker cannot escape the critic. By one calculation, if two people walk a mile and a half, then replenish the burned calories by each drinking a glass of milk, less greenhouse gases would be emitted by driving. This contrived example works because cows emit lots of methane and milk must stay refrigerated throughout the delivery chain. Skip the milk, and the argument falls apart. Ditto, if the car is driven solo. We all need a little exercise and more than a little common sense.

There is no one magical solution. Save Gas, Save the Planet captures over 120 different ways that people are making a difference by riding clean, riding together, and riding less. Many people can avoid some driving but not all. Not everyone can take transit or carpool all the time. A busy parent in the suburbs with three kids has different requirements than someone with no children who lives in a city. As you read Save Gas, Save the Planet, you will discover a number of ways to burn less fuel without needing a new car. When, and if, you are ready for a new car, you will make a better choice.

Visit Amazon for free look inside or discount on paperback and kindle ebook.

© 2009 John Addison. All rights reserved.

Magical Solutions – Save Gas, Save The Planet Excerpt is a post from: Clean Fleet Report

2012 Subaru Impreza delivers the best mileage of any all-wheel drive vehicle sold in the U.S. – 27-mpg city and 36-mpg highway – better than any hybrid AWD. The handling is designed to get you to your snow board / ski resort in the winter, off-road hike and bike spots in the summer, and get to school and work when the rain is pounding. Remember last winter’s miserable roads and high gas prices. The Impreza delivers better mileage in 2012 with more rear seat and cargo room. Available as either a compact 5-door hatchback or 4-door sedan, the Impreza sales start November 2011 with a base price of $17,495 for the sedan with a five-speed stick. A hatchback with automatic starts at $18,995 MSRP (all prices in this article are starting points for negotiation, are subject to change, and can be higher due to destination, handling, and options). 2012 Subaru Impreza Details

Lexus RX 450h AWD delivers safer driving in the snow, a roomy SUV, and 29 miles per gallon combined miles per gallon (mpg). The RX 450h is one of five hybrids now offered by Lexus, the premium car hybrid champion. While the sporty new Lexus CT200h will deliver 42 mpg, the bigger RX 450h delivers an impressive 29 mpg in a bigger, heavier SUV that delivers power to all four wheels, getting 30-mpg highway and 28-mpg around town. The hybrid drive system is smart enough to know when to only use the electric motors, when to engage the 3.5 liter engine, and when to use both. The RX 450h AWD starts at under $46,000.

Ford Escape Hybrid 4WD  deliver good mileage, wet and icy road handling starting at around $32,000 for Escape Hybrid 4WD. This 4WD delivers 29 mpg combined, 30 city, and 27 highway. Carry five people with room left for lots of cargo.

Toyota Highlander Hybrid 4WD can seat 7 people in 145 cubic feet in comparison to the 5 seat Lexus, Ford, and Mercury alternatives. The Highlander Hybrid 4WD uses two electric motors and a 3.5L engine to get you through a wide range of conditions. This 4WD delivers 28 combined, 28 city, 28 highway. Starting at $37,490, you get more room than the Lexus and Ford alternatives. With 7 people you have little cargo room, start collapsing seats and you have up to 94 cubic feet of cargo.

Nissan Juke AWD delivers good mileage without the added cost of being a hybrid. With 4 doors and a hatch, some find the styling fun and hip, others don’t like the looks. Because of the slopping roof, the back seat will not be popular with anyone over 5’10”. The cargo is limited to 10 cubic feet, but you can lower the backseat for 36 cubic feet. The Juke AWD, starting at about $20,500, is $10,000 less than the above hybrids, and is rated at 27 mpg combined, 25 city, and 30 highway.

Subaru Legacy AWD is a popular sedan designed to deliver mileage without being a hybrid and safe handling on icy roads. Subaru includes AWD in every vehicle it sells.  This sedan has been popular in colder climates for two decades. This sedan configured with a 2.5L engine and automatic delivers 26 mpg combined, 23 city, and 31 highway. Starting at $19,995 this 4-door, 5-seat midsized sedan makes all-wheel drive affordable for more people.

Mitsubishi Outlander Sport AWD is a 5-door, 5 passenger crossover SUV that makes four-wheel drive affordable and delivers 26 mpg combined, 24 city, and 29 highway. The Outlander Sport SE AWC starts at $22,995.

Audi TT Quattro offers a premium interior, performance, and multifunction sport steering with shift paddles. The Audi Quattro brand name assures you that have drive to all four wheels.  Audi provides a wide selection of AWD cars for those who value handling, performance, and take driving seriously. The Audi TT Coupe Quattro delivers 26 mpg combined, 22 city, and 31 highway.  Appointed with a rich leather interior and rich electronic entertainment, this Coupe Quattro starts at $38,300. The Audi TT Roadster Quattro also delivers 26 mpg combined, 22 city, and 31 highway, and starts at $41,300.

Subaru Outback Wagon 2.5i is a highly versatile SUV with AWD at a starting price of $23,195. The Outback delivers 24mpg combined, 23 city, and 29 highway with the 2.5L engine and automatic transmission. Comfortably seat 5 and still have 34 cubic feet of cargo, or use the 60/40 fold-down rear seat for 71.

Audi A4 and A5 Quattro delivers 24 mpg combined, 21 city, and 29 highway.  These premium sedans are popular with Audi lovers. The A4 starts at $32,850. The slightly bigger A5 starts at $36,500. If you like the performance and highway fuel-efficiency of turbo diesel, Audi offers one choice in the USA. It is the Q7 TDI Quattro. Because of the larger size and weight, the Q7 TDI only delivers 20 mpg combined, and the AWD version costs well north of $50,000.

Toyota RAV4 4WD is a more affordable SUV than the Toyota Highlander, starting at only $23, 425, yet a bit smaller and not matching the mileage. With a 2.4L engine and automatic the RAV4 4WD delivers 24 mpg combined, 21 city, and 27 highway. This SUV seats 5, but can be ordered with a third row to seat 7. Cargo is limited with 7 seated, but up to 73 cubic feet with back rows empty. In 2012, Toyota brings us an all-electric, Toyota RAV4 EV Powered by Tesla; AWD has not been announced.

Best AWD and 4WD Mileage

For millions that face snow and icy roads 10, 20, or even 40 percent of the year, a car or SUV must safely navigate dangerous conditions and still deliver good fuel economy. Winter storms and gasoline approaching $4 per gallon are making these dual demands more important.

A four-wheel drive provides better traction on ice by delivering power to all four wheels when the driver selects 4WD. All wheel drive vehicles (AWD) automatically deliver power to all wheels. Winter and mountain safety is further improved with snow tires or good all-weather radials. Added vehicle weight can help. Now you can have AWD and 4WD cars and SUVs that still deliver good fuel economy. Whether you are taking your kids to school in Chicago, getting to work in Washington D.C., or running a taxi fleet in New York, an AWD may help you through the storm.

Better mileage helps your pocketbook and helps our nation need less oil. If you want to lower your carbon footprint, all of these AWD and 4WD have lower emissions than the national average. Emissions for 15,000 miles of typical driving range from about 6 tons for the new Subaru Impreza to 6.5 tons CO2e for the best hybrid SUVs to 7.8 tons CO2e for the Subaru Outback Wagon AWD and Toyota RAV4 4WD.

This list was developed by first searching the U.S. EPA and DOE’s valuable fueleconomy.gov, then reviewing details on the vehicle maker websites. The EPA combined miles per gallon rating is based on 45% highway and 55% city driving.

Own or Rent an AWD

The average U.S. household has two cars. A growing trend is to put the most miles on the car with great mileage and have a bigger second vehicle for trips with passengers and tough road conditions. Bob and Weihong Eubank put the most miles on their Prius, but they are happy about having a Toyota Highlander Hybrid 4WD when heading for the mountains, or when loading 4 to 7 people in the SUV. Tim and Sandy Flood put most of their miles on commuter rail and on their Prius, but have a Honda CR-V AWD if they need more room or face bad roads.

In 2-car households, one vehicle could even be an electric car and the other a larger AWD. You might be surprised with how well some of the new electric cars handle snow and ice. When Clarkson Cote drove his new Chevrolet Volt 400 miles from New York to northern New Hampshire, the Volt handled the snow better than his relative’s truck with snow tires.

Instead of spending a small fortune to own a vehicle that gets you through the worst day of the year, consider what best meets your needs 350 days per year. When I lived in New Hampshire, I got along fine without AWD, driving my Saab with good all weather radial tires. Now living in California, my Prius did surprisingly well during the few days each year that I was on bad winter roads in the mountain, although I sometimes went through the hassle of putting on chains.  When we needed an SUV for the 2002 Winter Olympics, we rented a Ford Escape 4WD and were glad that we did. Consider renting an AWD if you rarely face icy roads.

If you need AWD and prefer to drive a four-door sedan, Subaru offers popular and affordable choices, and Audi Quattro sedans for premium comfort and handling at a premium price. A heavier SUV from Ford, Toyota, or Lexus does not necessarily give better traction or safety on the ice than a sedan, but it may give you the necessary room for up to 7 people, more cargo, and surprisingly use less gas. When that 100-year storm hits, relax. Schools are closed and you can work at home that day. Lots of room and premium comfort.

All-Wheel Drive Cars with Best Mileage is a post from: Clean Fleet Report

Excerpt from the Prologue of Save Gas, Save the Planet: John Addison’s book about hybrid and electric cars, pathways to low carbon driving, and the future of sustainable transportation. © 2009 John Addison. All rights reserved.

Transportation 2.0

During the next 20 years we will witness a major shift from vehicles that are mostly mechanical to vehicles that are primarily electronic. The success of hybrids heralds this new era. Electric motors are replacing internal combustion engines. In the parlance of technology, we could call this Car 2.0.

The transition to Car 2.0 is complicated. Current batteries are not sufficient for all vehicle uses. Hybrids, plug-in hybrids, and hydrogen fuel cells will compete in extending the range and performance of vehicles with electric drive systems. The engines in these vehicles will be next generation biofuels blended with petroleum fuels.

Slowly but surely, electricity will replace most petroleum fuel. The source of the electricity is in transition as renewable energy replaces coal-powered generation of electricity. A smart grid will increasingly deliver solar and wind power from remote locations to the hearts of our cities.

We are also witnessing more than Car 2.0; we see the beginnings of Transportation 2.0. In 2008, use of rail and public transit set records as Americans drove 100 billion less miles than in 2007. Modern cities use electric powered light-rail. In the future much of those cities will be connected with the electric-powered high-speed rail that is common in Europe and parts of Asia.

Five million new jobs can easily be created in building electric vehicles, expanding public transportation, connecting our great nation with high-speed rail, installing solar power, wind power, other renewable energy, and building a network with smart grids. To create these jobs, however, a smaller number of jobs will be lost as fewer low-mileage vehicles are built, as electric components replace mechanical, and as renewables replace fossil fuel.

More will be required than the $17 billion provided at the end of 2008; needed is vision and a will to change. The transition to Transportation 2.0 will not be smooth; it will not be pretty. Some corporations, jobholders, and special interests tied to old paradigms will continue to fight change and continue to sue states that try to regulate greenhouse gas emissions. Unfortunately, this will be a squandered opportunity for those corporations to be global leaders and to be job creators.

As this book goes to press, the auto industry is in a great transition. The future will be bright for those that seize the opportunity to lead in Transportation 2.0. Because automakers are financially challenged, some of the new vehicles, which are discussed, will not come to market. Some will not make it into production. Yet many exciting new vehicles will be in your immediate future. The solutions are here. They are described in the chapters that follow.

Visit Amazon for free look inside or discount on paperback and kindle ebook.

© 2009 John Addison. All rights reserved.

Transportation 2.0 – Save Gas, Save The Planet Excerpt is a post from: Clean Fleet Report

Ford’s all-new 2011 Fiesta with up to 40 mpg highway and 29 mpg city, delivers better fuel economy than most hybrid cars. The Ford Fiesta 34 mpg combined rating, achieved with Ford’s new six-speed PowerShift automatic transmission, is better than the Honda Fit and the Toyota Yaris. The new Fiesta will also get strong competition from the new 2011 Chevy Cruze. The 2011 Fiesta with standard five-speed manual transmission is EPA rated at 28 mpg city and 37 mpg highway.

The Fiesta is available as a 4-door sedan, or as a 5-door hatchback. The sedan is 13 inches longer than the hatchback. This compact offers 85 cubic feet of passenger space and almost 13 cubic feet of trunk space.

Fiesta’s class-leading fuel efficiency follows Fusion Hybrid and other fuel economy champs such as the Ford Escape Hybrid, Mercury Mariner Hybrid.

The Fiesta achieves its best-in-segment fuel figures thanks to a host of fuel-saving technologies not normally seen at this price level. To increase fuel economy, the front-wheel drive Fiesta features a new 1.6-liter Duratec® engine with Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing (Ti-VCT) that delivers 120 horsepower, an aggressive deceleration fuel shutoff and an engine accessory drive system that improves efficiency by reducing the energy it takes to power the air conditioner and alternator.

The Fiesta offers the optional PowerShift transmission, a six-speed automatic that combines the fuel benefits of a manual with the convenience of an automatic. Combine that with electric power-assisted steering, another fuel saver and some aerodynamic optimizations and you have a car that can go a long way on a single tank of fuel. Although PowerShift costs more, it is likely to pay for itself at the pump within the first few years of driving.

Fiesta is built for North American markets at Ford’s manufacturing facility in Cuautitlan, Mexico. The vehicle goes on sale in four-door sedan and five-door hatchback body styles – with the sedan starting at $13,995, including destination charges – at Ford dealerships this summer. A more appointed hatchback can start at up to $17,995. Ford’s Prices and Options

The Fiesta has been a hot seller in Europe and is likely to receive equal enthusiasm in the U.S. The Fiesta is expected to have an EPA greenhouse gas emission rating of 5.4 tons of CO2e per year, better than most hybrids. Clean Fleet Report 2010 Top 10 Lowest Carbon Footprint Cars

2011 Ford Fiesta Gets Better Mileage than Most Hybrid Cars is a post from: Clean Fleet Report

Toyota Prius tops Clean Fleet list with lowest GHG

People and fleets that use vehicles with the lowest greenhouse gas emissions per mile are rewarded with making our future a little better and with their fuel costs being much lower. The following cars, wagons, and SUVs have the lowest greenhouse gas emissions per mile of any vehicles available for volume commercial sales in the United States in 2009. All can achieve freeway speed. In many cases, they also have the best fuel economy. All are now available and priced well below $40,000 per vehicle, with some below $20,000.

From California to Capitol Hill to Copenhagen, plans and incentives are being created for a cap-and-trade of emissions. Passenger vehicles can get up to a $7,500 per vehicle tax break for being zero emission. The rewards for buying and selling low emission vehicles will increase. The incentives will be paid for, in part, by higher costs for gas guzzlers.

Reduced greenhouse gas emissions are becoming a priority with fleet managers and millions of conscientious consumers. These Clean Fleet Top 10 Low Carbon Footprint Passenger Vehicles are listed from lowest to highest in carbon footprint.

1. Toyota Prius
2. Honda Civic Hybrid
3. Honda Insight
4. Ford Fusion Hybrid
5. smart fortwo
6. Nissan Altima Hybrid
7. Honda Civic CNG
8. Toyota Camry Hybrid
9. Ford Escape Hybrid
10. Mini Cooper and Clubman

This list was developed by first searching the U.S. EPA and DOE’s valuable fueleconomy.gov, with its extensive search capabilities. The EPA combined miles per gallon rating is based on 45% highway and 55% city driving. The carbon footprint is carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) based on 15,000 miles of driving, using the GREET 1.7 model.

The Toyota Prius continues to lead the four-door sedan field in fuel economy and lowest lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions. This perennial favorite midsize is lowest on the list with 3.7 tons of carbon dioxide equivalent for the EPA annual driving cycle; combined fuel economy is 50 mpg. Yes, 3.7 tons of CO2e is a lot; but many cars, light trucks, and SUVs create three times that emission. This year, Toyota is also putting 500 plug-in hybrid Priuses into fleet tests, so stay tuned for big news next year.

The Honda Civic Hybrid compact rates at 4.4 tons of CO2e for the EPA annual driving cycle and a combined 42 mpg.

The new Honda Insight four-door sedan with an Ecological Drive Assist System is priced for thousands less than the Prius. The Insight will deliver 41 mpg combined, with annual emissions of about 4.5 tons of CO2e.

The Ford Fusion Hybrid midsized sedan has an EPA rating of 41 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway. Clean Fleet Report makes an unofficial estimate that emissions will be 4.8 tons of CO2e for the EPA annual driving cycle. The Fusion Hybrid and Mercury Milan Hybrid may travel up to 47 miles per hour in pure electric mode. The Advanced Intake Variable Cam Timing allows the Fusion and Milan hybrids to more seamlessly transition between gas and electric modes.

The smart fortwo is the new urban champion of fitting into city parking spaces that no other car can use, thus saving some owners over $20 daily in parking cost (or avoiding up to a $100 parking ticket). This little coupe gets a combined 36 mpg with a 5.1 tons of CO2e for the EPA annual driving cycle.

The Nissan Altima Hybrid also delivers good mileage for a midsize, benefiting from Nissan’s continuously variable transmission technology. The EPA rating is 5.4 tons of CO2e for the EPA annual driving cycle and a combined 34 mpg.

The Honda Civic CNG emits 5.4 tons of CO2e for the EPA annual driving cycle and a combined 28 mpg equivalent. This vehicle is popular with fleets that also want to reduce their criteria pollutant emissions and have their own CNG fueling. Heavy CNG buying accelerated last year when oil prices soared.

Toyota Camry Hybrid delivers good mileage for a midsize with an automatic transmission. The EPA rating is 5.4 tons of CO2e for the EPA annual driving cycle and a combined 34 mpg. Toyota has been showing a concept Camry CNG Hybrid which would lower CO2e to only 4.6 tons should Toyota decide to offer it to fleets.

The Ford Escape Hybrid is the only SUV to achieve one of the 10 lowest emissions of greenhouse gases. Comfortably holding five and lots of cargo this offers an appealing choice to the fuel economy and emission conscious individual or fleet. This SUV achieves a combined 32 mpg and emissions of 5.7 tons of CO2e for the EPA annual driving cycle. With a common drive system, the Mercury Mariner Hybrid and Mazda Tribute Hybrid deliver the same carbon footprint and respectable mileage.

The Mini Cooper and Clubman have a loyal following that enjoy good gas mileage with a combined 32 mpg and emissions of 5.7 tons of CO2e for the EPA annual driving cycle. Definitely less cargo space the many on the list, but with a nice cost savings compared to the larger hybrids. BMW is leasing 500 of the new Mini E electric vehicle with freeway speed and a 150 mile range per charge. Should this be offered in larger quantity in 2010, the Mini E could lead on this list.

Fleets are also early adopters of vehicles with even less emissions including electric vehicles, hydrogen fuel cell, plug-in hybrid conversions, and diesel hybrid concept cars. Because these are not offered for commercial volume sale, or because they are priced out of reach, they are not part of this 2009 list.

Many users of EV charge their vehicles with solar power, producing zero greenhouse gas emissions from source-to-wheels. Non-freeway speed pioneers, such as Chrysler GEM, deserve recognition. Tesla may put 1,000 freeway speed EVs on the road this year. Although an average $100,000 price tag puts the Tesla Roadster out of reach for most of us, in a few years Tesla may be mass producing an affordable battery-electric sedan. Over the next three years, the above list will change as Nissan, Ford, BYD, and dozens of emerging EV and PHEV makers enter the affordable vehicle competition. More Clean Fleet Report EV Coverage.

Not considered in this Top 10 list are vehicles with the lowest smog-forming emissions, once the only factor considered by government regulators and buyers. In general, vehicles with low greenhouse gas emissions are low in criteria pollutants.

If you are planning to buy a passenger vehicle including an SUV, this list may be a good starting point. The focus is on vehicles with low CO2e emissions available for commercial sales in the United States, thereby excluding some of the small diesel wonders in Europe and electric vehicles selling in Asia.  Some people will need larger SUVs and trucks, while others will need more affordable choices.

The Toyota Yaris and Honda Fit were close runner-ups in making the Top 10. The list should be more exciting in 2010 as Toyota and GM prepare to battle for plug-in hybrid leadership and dozens of companies challenge Nissan’s determination to lead in battery-electric vehicles.

John Addison publishes the Clean Fleet Report and is the author of Save Gas, Save the Planet.

Top 10 Low Carbon Footprint Cars (and one SUV) for 2009 is a post from: Clean Fleet Report