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Finding a hybrid car


With Toyota implementing plans for hybrid versions of all of its Toyota and Lexus models for the US, and other automakers planning new hybrid models, US buyers are being presented with more and more choices. From subcompacts to SUVs to luxury cruisers, there's a model for every need and budget.

In Singapore, however, because of low sales volumes and an insufficiently attractive tax structures, there are few hybrids available, but those available are the best of breed. Here are a few of the currently available models in Singapore. Note that the EPA economy listed here is under current testing procedures. The EPA is working on new testing procedures for the 2008 model year, which is likely to lower these figures.

Display Honda Civic Hybrid 1.3-litre i-VTEC CVT

EPA fuel economy: 49mpg city/51mpg highway The 2006 Honda Civic Hybrid gets an update to Honda's Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) hybrid system from the previous model year. This newest IMA is closer to a full hybrid, letting the car run for very brief periods on electric power only. It also shuts down the engine at stoplights and in traffic, restarting seamlessly.

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Maps 2007 Lexus RX 400h

EPA fuel economy: 31mpg city/27mpg highway One of the first luxury hybrids, the Lexus RX 400h uses a similar all-wheel-drive configuration as the Toyota Highlander. The RX 400h has Toyota's Synergy hybrid system, which in this application gets two motors, powering each set of wheels. The RX 400h is also marked by a luxurious interior.

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Maps 2007 Lexus LS600H

EPA fuel economy: 20mpg city/22mpg highway Lexus' ambitious super luxury hybrid. With hybrid technology, the LS600H competes with similar non-hybrid gasoline-only V12s from BMW and Mercedes. Using an upgraded Hybrid Synergy Drive, it offers unparalleled refinement further enhanced by hybrid technology's trademark quietness when running on batteries alone.

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Maps 2007 Toyota Prius

EPA fuel economy: 45.8mpg combined The first hybrid to be mass produced and marketed has been refreshed. A totally bespoke platform made specifically to be a hybrid, it finds the best balance between eco-friendliness and practicality.

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« Cost of owning a hybrid  | Living with a hybrid car  »
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More Tips for Your Car

Maintain a regular service log to keep your car tip-top
Keep a schedule of regular servicing and checks. The data inside will ensure that the correct parts are always fitted and that your car can be easily repaired even after many years of use.

Regular servicing is essential to keeping your car road-worthy
Have servicing carried out regularly by an authorised workshop - It not only affects the road worthiness of the car but also establishes the foundation for better fuel efficiency and consumption.

Service your engine regularly to save on petrol
A badly tuned engine may use up to 10% more fuel than normal, so regular servicing can actually save you money and engine trouble in the long run. It’s also better for the Earth!