vLane Blog

While a two mode hybrid system is the most common in large SUVs and hybrid utility vehicles, some here are a little more conventionally "hybrids" — with the Toyota and Lexus hybrids taking the lead. Click through for more interesting hybrid SUVs. [Photo: Michael Banovsky]

GMC Yukon Denali Hybrid — You might begin to see these around your city in May of this year. This hybrid switches between gasoline and electric power when needed, or a combination of the two. Fuel economy? Twenty-one city and 22 highway mpg. What about compared to the gasoline-only Yukon Denali? That SUV gets only 12 city and 18 highway mpg.

Cadillac Escalade Platinum Hybrid — While a two mode hybrid system is the most common in large SUVs and hybrid utility vehicles, the Escalade's powertrain can be found under this hood as well as under the hood of the Yukon above. A neat feature of both is how the engine shuts off when at a stop light or in some traffic conditions. Like the Yukon, it'll run on battery power alone… But just look at how nice the 'Slade looks!

Toyota Highlander Hybrid — Toyota uses a larger version of the Prius Hybrid Synergy Drive system, combining a 3.3-litre V6 engine with an electric motor to produce a lot of power: 270 horsepower, to be exact and 4WD. There is another motor for the rear wheels and sensors to distribute torque between front and rear wheels. The sensors can detect when rear-wheel drive isn't needed and returns to front-wheel drive.

Mercedes-Benz ML 450 Hybrid — When only using batteries for power, this SUV can be driven at 34 mph thanks to a powerful battery pack. Also using a similar two-mode system to the GMC and Cadillac (Mercedes-Benz, BMW, GM, and Chrysler all worked on the system), this Mercedes gets 21 city and 24 highway mpg. Moving in style and being fuel efficient is a way of the future for Mercedes. Looking at the interior of this, you wouldn't be able to stop yourself from exploring every little corner; absolutely gorgeous inside.

Lexus RX 450h Hybrid —

Don't forget about Lexus…this luxury SUV that also shares the same type of hybrid technology as the Toyota Highlander, but with the latest technology. There are three electric motors that work when the car is stopped or taking off at low speeds, and the battery is recharged when braking. An interesting feature about the Lexus is the exhaust heat recovery system. This allows the vehicle to stop more and for longer periods of time as well as advancing the fuel economy and emissions by circulating the engine coolant in a component found in the exhaust pipe. The new EV mode can be used by drivers for short distances and only uses the electric motors.

Porsche Cayenne Hybrid —

Actually, yes. At higher speeds, the wheels can be de-coupled from the powertrain, an effect Porsche calls "sailing." Everything turns off, leaving only the sound of the road to tell you you're doing highway speeds.

Saturn Vue Hybrid —

You know when the sun is blazing down on you through the windshield and it starts to get real hot? Saturn has got you covered. This hybrid has a tinted Solar Ray front windshield that reduces the heat for you.

Great on gas too, the Vue gives a combined city/highway fuel consumption rating of 32 mpg.