Car trends for 2019 focus on vehicles that don’t only save on fuel but also prevent more damage to the environment. This is possible through hybrid cars. There lots of hybrid cars available today but one of the most popular of all is the Toyota Prius.
It was back in 1997 that Toyota released the original Prius. Since then, there have been lots of changes to the Prius released today. Even way back then, competitors are challenged to beat this model. Although it’s a great car, it still isn’t suitable for all.
Don’t fret because aside from the Toyota Prius there are other hybrid cars available as of 2019 and we’ll tell you all about them today in this post. And if you’re also interested in the car trends of 2018, be sure to read our post about that here.
Toyota Prius
Toyota Prius may be the most popular name when hybrid cars are the topic. It is a best-seller and it has captured the hearts of the masses because it focuses on fuel economy. Although focused on fuel economy it still an impressive car overall, except maybe for how it looks.
The hybrid synergy drive system of the Toyota Prius helps it achieve thermal efficiency of 40%, which is higher than other vehicles. It also took drag into consideration and reached a 0.24 low drag coefficient. These all help reach the EPA rating of 56 mpg.
The Toyota Prius still managed to have a roomy cabin and a hatchback. The one available today also looks and feels more sporty. This is due to the lower center of gravity as well as the rear suspension system. All in all, the version we have today is the best among the previously released.
Honda Insight
The Honda Insight is a sedan that just so happens to be a hybrid too. The Insight release in 2019 is nowhere similar to the previous Insight released in the past years. Instead, the current Insight is based on the Honda Civic.
A few changes from the Civic includes the 1.5 L four-cylinder engine, plus modifications to the car’s body. This car is EPA-rated 52mpg and although it’s not as efficient as the Prius, some still prefer to drive it because of how easy it is to use. It even has Android Auto and Apple CarPlay to entice more drivers.
Range Rover P400
This modern SUV is a hybrid but it is strong enough for off-road adventures. It has a 2.0L four-cylinder engine with an electric motor assistance. It only takes 6.4 seconds to go from 0-60 as Land Rover claims and it can reach top speeds of 137 mph on the road. But it’s off road capability is what sets this vehicle apart from other hybrids.
There is also a plug-in hybrid available and they claim that the all-electric mode also works great on off road terrains. It can go through up to 35.4 inches of water and still have a comfortable interior. To add to the luxury feel, it also fitted with a leather-lined interior, touch control infotainment system and 10-inch touch screens.
Porsche Panamera 4 E-Hybrid
Porsche is known for producing high end sports cars but the great thing about this model is that it comes with low CO2 emissions. This hybrid car isn’t the most powerful Porsche vehicle but it also isn’t the weakest. It’s a plug-in hybrid but the performance isn’t sacrificed. Switching from one mode to another is also very easy and is done with just a push of a button.
Fitted under the metal sheets is a 2.9 L V6 engine and a 136-hp electric motor. A 14.1 kWH battery is also linked to the motor which can provide up to 30 miles while running at a speed of up to 90 mph.
Even with the electric motor and hybrid capabilities, it still looks like and feels like a Porsche. Acceleration, handling, and torque are all what you would expect of a Porsche to provide. Nevertheless, there is still one drawback and that is the huge battery that takes up a lot of space.
BMW 530e
If you have the funds and is looking for a luxury hybrid, the BMW 530e is a great choice. It features a great style, performance and use of technology. It offers a comfortable ride and a 9.2 kWh battery that can let you travel for about 29 miles by using electric power alone.
This hybrid car is powered by an electric motor plus a 2.0 L four-cylinder gas engine. It may not be the most powerful vehicle out there but at 248 hp and a torque of 310, it has more than enough to go fast but still be in control.
