Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid
Now, with the 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid, it's possible to drive one
of these beasts without upping the limit on your gas card or risking
the scorn of your neighbors. And there are plenty of decals and emblems
on this Tahoe to let everyone know that it is indeed a hybrid,
furthering your chances of social acceptance.
A two-mode hybrid (meaning it can run on electric power, gas or both
combined), the Tahoe Hybrid also features a unique two-mode
transmission. When in electric or electric-gas propulsion mode, the
abundance of torque output allows it to utilize a two-speed unit that
makes for fewer gearchanges and thus more seamless acceleration. When
just the gas engine is employed, a more robust, conventional four-speed
automatic comes into play. This combination allows the four-wheel-drive
Tahoe Hybrid to offer refined, shudder-free performance as well as (in
the 4WD version) a low gear for slippery, low-speed conditions. The
latter is unique among the few hybrid SUVs on the market. (Teamwinmark - Thursday 18 June 2009)
Winmark Authorized Agent Group Inc :
Ford Escape Hybrid - Performance
Sadly, braking hardware goes the other way. Inexplicably, this year
Ford swapped out the Escape Hybrid's rear discs for drums. Our 60-0-mph
braking test of a 2008 Mercury Mariner resulted in a 138-foot distance,
which is about 10 feet longer than we'd like. And that was with the
rear discs, so we imagine with drums back there it's only going to be
longer. If we were calling the shots at Ford, we would've fitted this
ute with beefy discs all around.
In everyday driving, the brakes actually feel solid. Being a hybrid,
this Escape's braking action is regenerative — applying the brakes also
sends energy that would normally be lost as heat back into the battery
pack. But despite tweaks this year to improve brake feel, they still
feel a little touchy until you've acclimated, which in fairness doesn't
take long.
Honda Accord Sedan
Large
cars often bring larger expectations. When pondering big sedans, you
probably think of a car with a huge trunk, cushy ride and handling in
the nautical class. Although the EPA has classified the 2009 Honda
Accord LX-P sedan as a large vehicle, it retains its midsize handling
dynamics and remains a strong competitor in the volume-selling family
sedan segment.
On our test car, the "P" in LX-P stands for premium. This ,000 upgrade
over the standard Accord LX nets you 16-inch wheels, a security system,
auto up/down driver and passenger windows with illuminated switches, an
eight-way power driver seat and a chrome exhaust finisher. With an MSRP
of just less than ,000, the LX-P trim presents a viable alternative for
those considering the more luxed-out EX, while also hoping to save a
few bucks.
(Monday 19 June 2006 : Winmark Authorized Agent Group)
Share on StumbleUpon
Share on LinkedIn