5 Hybrid Cars from 2012 to Avoid

May 30
16:27

2024

jodie mht

jodie mht

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In 2013, the ActiveHybrid 6 received a complete overhaul with a brand-new powertrain. The Japanese automaker Toyota has sold over 3 million Prius models globally since the mid-1990s, making it one of the most environmentally friendly cars in the world. The 2012 Toyota Prius remains the gold standard among hybrid-electric vehicles, with some of its models achieving a combined EPA fuel economy rating of 50 miles per gallon. However, there are several other hybrid models on the market that you might want to reconsider before making a purchase. Here are five 2012 hybrid cars that you should think twice about.

1. BMW ActiveHybrid 7

Performance and Fuel Economy

The BMW ActiveHybrid 7 was one of BMW's first attempts at a hybrid vehicle,5 Hybrid Cars from 2012 to Avoid Articles alongside the now-discontinued ActiveHybrid X6. Unfortunately, it suffered from a clunky name, poor fuel economy, and heavy handling that contradicted its reputation as a driving machine. The EPA rated the ActiveHybrid 7Li model at just 20 mpg combined, which was no better than the standard 740Li model of the same year. The hybrid's 15-kilowatt electric motor wasn't powerful enough to move the full-size luxury sedan on its own. It could only provide additional torque, restart the 455-hp 4.4-liter twin-turbo V-8 engine when the car moved from a stop, and recharge the lithium-ion battery during braking.

Driving Experience

When we tested the ActiveHybrid 7 a few years ago, we found that the car decelerated noticeably when lifting off the throttle below 30 mph, as if it were dragging something. This is not how a large, expensive luxury sedan should behave. BMW has since updated its hybrid system, which is now used in hybrid versions of the 5-Series and 3-Series. The updated system features a more powerful 40-kW (55-hp) electric motor that can move the car solely on electric power at low speeds, paired with a twin-turbo six-cylinder engine. However, the 2012 and 2013 ActiveHybrid 7 models are now outdated and offer no better fuel economy than a non-hybrid 7-Series, along with worse driving dynamics.

2. Honda CR-Z

Mixed Messages

Fans of the iconic Honda CRX two-seater sports car had high hopes for the 2012 Honda CR-Z hybrid. However, the CR-Z is a confusing vehicle with mixed messages. It is neither a light, agile sports car like the 1984-1992 CRX nor an ultra-efficient hybrid with exceptional fuel economy like the original 2000-2006 Honda Insight, which achieved 53 mpg with a six-speed manual transmission. Instead, the hybrid system and a 700-pound weight increase to meet modern crash safety standards make it neither particularly fast nor especially fuel-efficient.

Performance and Fuel Economy

The CR-Z's hybrid system adds weight and complexity without delivering significant performance or fuel economy benefits. The car's combined EPA rating is just 37 mpg, which is disappointing for a hybrid. Additionally, the CR-Z's handling and acceleration are lackluster compared to other sporty cars in its class.

3. Lexus HS 250h

Performance and Fuel Economy

The Lexus HS 250h was intended to be a luxury hybrid sedan, but it fell short in several areas. The car's combined EPA rating of 35 mpg is unimpressive for a hybrid, especially considering its premium price. The HS 250h's 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine and electric motor produce a combined 187 hp, but the car's performance is underwhelming, with a 0-60 mph time of around 8.4 seconds.

Driving Experience

The HS 250h's handling is uninspiring, and the car's ride quality is not as smooth as one would expect from a luxury vehicle. Additionally, the interior materials and build quality are not up to Lexus's usual high standards. Overall, the HS 250h is a mediocre hybrid that fails to deliver on its promise of luxury and efficiency.

4. Lincoln MKZ Hybrid

Performance and Fuel Economy

The 2012 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid is another luxury hybrid that falls short of expectations. The car's combined EPA rating of 39 mpg is decent, but not exceptional for a hybrid. The MKZ Hybrid's 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and electric motor produce a combined 191 hp, but the car's performance is lackluster, with a 0-60 mph time of around 8.5 seconds.

Driving Experience

The MKZ Hybrid's handling is uninspiring, and the car's ride quality is not as smooth as one would expect from a luxury vehicle. Additionally, the interior materials and build quality are not up to Lincoln's usual high standards. Overall, the MKZ Hybrid is a mediocre hybrid that fails to deliver on its promise of luxury and efficiency.

5. Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid

Performance and Fuel Economy

The 2012 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid is another hybrid that falls short of expectations. The car's combined EPA rating of 45 mpg is decent, but not exceptional for a hybrid. The Jetta Hybrid's 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and electric motor produce a combined 170 hp, but the car's performance is lackluster, with a 0-60 mph time of around 8.6 seconds.

Driving Experience

The Jetta Hybrid's handling is uninspiring, and the car's ride quality is not as smooth as one would expect from a Volkswagen. Additionally, the interior materials and build quality are not up to Volkswagen's usual high standards. Overall, the Jetta Hybrid is a mediocre hybrid that fails to deliver on its promise of efficiency and performance.

Conclusion

While hybrid cars offer the promise of better fuel economy and lower emissions, not all hybrids are created equal. The 2012 models listed above fall short in various areas, from fuel economy to driving experience. If you're in the market for a hybrid, it's essential to do your research and consider newer models that offer better performance, efficiency, and overall value.

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