All gas-electric hybrid vehicles are not created equal.
General Motors has introduced several hybrid-type offerings since 2005. Although Asian automakers Toyota and Honda were the first manufacturers to debut gas-electric hybrid vehicles in the United States, GM has taken the next step by offering gas-electric hybrid technology in several different forms.
The Saturn division of GM offers hybrids in two 2008 vehicles. The hybrid Vue compact sport utility (marketed as the Vue Green Line) and the compact Aura sedan (marketed as the Aura Green Line). Both use a technology GM dubs as a "mild" hybrids, working in tandem with a four-cylinder gas engine. In addition to the "mild" technology, GM also offers a more intricate gas-electric hybrid technology, a 'two-mode' system currently found in some larger vehicles. The mild and two-mode systems do not require vehicles to be plugged into a wall socket overnight for recharging. General Motors announced at the 2008 North American International Auto Show in Detroit this past January that later in 2008 calendar year, the Saturn Vue will also be available with the two-mode hybrid system utilizing a V-6 powertrain. In addition, a third hybrid technology involving a wall socket plug in system could be ready for production in Vue by the year 2010.
For now, the mild hybrid technology found in Saturn Vues and Auras is also available in the redesigned 2008 Chevrolet Malibu sedan. The mild hybrid technology is the less expensive technology when compared with the two-mode system, reducing the overall cost of the vehicle to consumers. The mild technology does not permit the car to be driven in a pure electric mode at lower speeds. Instead, its main function is to restart the gas engine when it's shut down during stops. This simple arrangement adds about six miles to each gallon of gas. It's not the 45 miles per gallon the Toyota Prius offers, but a comparably equipped Saturn Vue costs less than a Prius.
The Vue's 2.4-liter Ecotec four-cylinder engine with modified four-speed automatic transmission is teamed up with a 36-volt nickel metal hydride battery. Together, they generate 169 horsepower. In addition to the four-cylinder engine shutting off when stopped, the system also provides an electric boost when accelerating. The hybrid battery also regenerates when braking. Fuel estimates of this hybrid edition check in at 25 mpg in city driving and 32 mpg highway. General Motors extends its warranty for the Vue Green hybrid components to eight years or 100,000 miles (whichever comes first).
Those purchasing a new 2008 Saturn Vue may be eligible for a $1,550 hybrid vehicle tax credit from Uncle Sam. However, the Federal Government continues tweaking this credit so check with your tax specialist. For now, the full credit is applicable for the first 60,000 hybrid vehicles sold by any given manufacturer in the United States. Since General Motors has not sold as many hybrid vehicles as Toyota, chances are that when purchasing a 2008 Saturn Vue, one would be eligible for the tax credit.
Another manufacturer selling hybrid technology is Ford Motor Co. Its compact/midsize Escape five-door sport utility appeared on the market in the 2005 model year. Sister vehicles Mercury Mariner and Mazda Tribute also carry the same Ford hybrid technology. The trio from Ford Motor Co. have a higher starting price than the 2008 Vue Green Line, but incorporate a more complex gas-electric operation.
Our four-cylinder Vue Green Line test vehicle checked in at $24,170. Green Lines come well equipped in one trim level with few options. The bottom line after adding in the $625 destination charge was $24,795. A 2008 four-cylinder Ford Escape hybrid generating 34 mpg city and 30 mpg highway lists at $26,640.
All Saturn Vues, including hybrid and gas-exclusive models, were redesigned for the 2008 model year. The five-door Vue hatchback debuted in the 2002 model year and is by far the longest running nameplate in GM's revamped Saturn division. Although a sport utility body style, it's based on a car (unibody) frame and not designed for heavy off-roading. Exteriorwise, Vue now boasts smoother European styling and a less-boxy look with a rear hatchback that's more curved than angled.
Inside, Five circular air vents spread across the front dashboard. Below the center stereo is an inlet tray for storing cell phones or other small items. Three easy-to-grab circular dials control fan speed, temperature and air direction. Two inline beverage holders and the hand-operated parking brake along with a bi-level storage bin are snug between the front cloth bucket seats. Front windshield wipers activate from a right-hand side steering column stalk while a button controlling the rear wiper is located on the dashboard. On the far left side of the dashboard is a small pull-down storage pocket good for stowing coins. The front portion of the driver's side arm rest is home to power window, lock and mirror controls. For a compact-sized vehicle, Vue sports a nice-sized glove box.
Generous head room is found in both rows of seating. Vue has seating for five, although two adults fit most comfortably in back during long stretches. Second row seat backs, with a 60/40 split, fold flat onto the cushions opening up more cargo capacity. Some compact/midsize car-based SUVs offer a third row of seating, including the Mitsubishi Outlander and Toyota RAV 4, but these third rows are best left to the pre-teen set.
Standard equipment in the Vue Green Line includes rear window defroster, cruise control, compact disc/MP3 player along with power locks, outside mirrors and windows. As with most 2008 GM vehicles, XM satellite radio and three months of complimentary service are included. Notable standard safety features include anti-lock brakes, traction control, head curtain side air bags, side thorax air bags and remote keyless entry. OnStar, GM's in-car, satellite-linked communication systems with direct audio access to a 24-hour a day manned center, is also standard.
The Saturn Vue Green Line comes exclusively with front-wheel drive. Other 2008 gas-powered Vue models offer all-wheel drive in addition to front-wheel drive. General Motors assembles the Saturn Vue Green Line hybrid in Mexico. |