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Mazda May Sell Tribute Hybrid

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    Mazda May Sell Tribute Hybrid

    AutoWeek is reporting that Mazda may offer a hybrid version of the Tribute compact SUV in North America, although there are no indications of when this would happen.

    We assume that a hybrid Tribute would basically be a version of Ford's new Escape Hybrid (pictured above). Another derivative of the Escape Hybrid, badged the Mercury Mariner, will go on sale next fall.

    The Escape Hybrid utilizes the same 2.3-liter MZR motor from the base Tribute, with some minor modifications to optimize its fuel efficiency. This means there is less low end torque, but the electric motor makes up for it. Although the two motors combined peak at just 155 horsepower, the power band is very broad and this results in performance very close to that of the V6 Tribute. Unique to the Escape Hybrid is a continuously variable transmission, which can be mated to either front or all-wheel drive.

    The hybrid powertrain improves fuel economy substantially, with the front drive model 37 MPG in the city and 30 on the highway. This does of course come at a cost; the base Escape Hybrid starts at $26,380 for the front drive version, and $28,005 for the all-wheel drive model. This is approximately $3000 more than a comparable Escape V6 model.

    Over the next year or two, several other vehicles with hybrid drivetrains will become available, including the Toyota Highlander, Lexus RX400h, Honda Accord, and Nissan Altima. The market for hybrid vehicles will grow exponentially in the same time, so it would be great to see Mazda join the fray.
    Clint/1999 "Sport20"

    #2
    When will people learn that hybrid cars are not the answer? The future is in hydrogen fuel cells. The only way you could get away from gasoline with a hybrid car would be to make it electric + ethanol.
    ~Mar.

    Now say it with me... B-R-A-K-E.

    Good job!

    Comment


      #3
      currently hydrogen fuel cell is still TOO EXPENSIVE for mass production on automobiles...

      '04 Titanium RX-8

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