Who wants to have car like this? A Ford Fusion Hybrid, with a more comfortable climate and almost start up in silent mode. That is, turning the key triggers all the system start-up checks followed by the ready light, but no engine start. Pulling away nice and easy, you can get out the driveway and down the street without alerting anyone to your departure. A gentle foot on throttle can get you up to 25 mph without ever starting the engine. Eventually, of course the engine does start up and continues running until warm. But we generally do not recommend hybrid vehicles to drivers who spend several months of the year in cold winter weather. A diesel or conventional gas vehicle would probably be a better fit at lower cost. On the other hand, if like an increasing number of Americans, you live in warm southern climes and you do a significant amount of urban driving, a hybrid like the Fusion is an excellent choice.

Ford Fusion Hybrid Front View

Read the rest of this entry »