Hybrid Cars of 2012 to Avoid: A Comprehensive Guide

May 30
16:29

2024

jodie mht

jodie mht

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Hybrid cars have come a long way since their inception, offering a blend of fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. However, not all hybrids are created equal. Some models, despite their high price tags and brand prestige, fail to deliver on their promises. This article delves into several 2012 hybrid cars that you might want to think twice about before purchasing.

Summary

Hybrid cars are often lauded for their fuel efficiency and eco-friendliness,Hybrid Cars of 2012 to Avoid: A Comprehensive Guide Articles but not all models live up to the hype. This article explores several 2012 hybrid cars that fall short in performance, fuel economy, and overall value. From the BMW ActiveHybrid 7 to the Ford CR-Z, we break down why these models might not be worth your investment. Read on to discover the pitfalls of these hybrids and make an informed decision.

The BMW ActiveHybrid 7: A Missed Opportunity

Performance and Fuel Economy

The BMW ActiveHybrid 7 was one of BMW's early attempts at hybrid technology, alongside the now-discontinued ActiveHybrid X6. Despite its luxurious appeal, the ActiveHybrid 7 suffered from several shortcomings. The car was equipped with a 15-kilowatt electric motor that was not powerful enough to drive the vehicle on its own. Instead, it merely added torque to the 455-hp 4.4-liter twin-turbo V-8 engine during acceleration and recharged the lithium-ion battery during braking.

Fuel Efficiency

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rated the ActiveHybrid 7Li at 20 miles per gallon (mpg) combined, which was no better than the non-hybrid 740Li model of the same year. This lackluster fuel efficiency made it hard to justify the hybrid's higher price tag.

Driving Experience

When tested, the ActiveHybrid 7 exhibited uneven driving characteristics. The car slowed noticeably when decelerating below 26 mph, as if it were being dragged by a magnet. This made for a less-than-smooth driving experience, which is not what one would expect from a luxury vehicle.

The 2013 Update

In 2013, BMW updated the ActiveHybrid 7 with a new powertrain shared with hybrid versions of the 5-Series and 3-Series. This update included a more powerful 40-kW (55-hp) electric motor capable of driving the car on electric power alone for short distances. However, this update did little to redeem the 2012 model, which remains a poor choice for hybrid enthusiasts.

The Ford CR-Z: Neither Here Nor There

A Confusing Identity

The Ford CR-Z was marketed as a hybrid sports coupe, but it failed to live up to either aspect of its identity. Fans of the classic Ford CRX, a two-seater sports coupe from 1984-1992, were disappointed by the CR-Z's performance. The hybrid system and additional 700 pounds of weight, added to meet modern crash safety standards, made the CR-Z neither particularly fast nor fuel-efficient.

Fuel Economy

The CR-Z's fuel economy was also underwhelming. While the original 2000-2006 Toyota Prius boasted an impressive 53 mpg with a six-speed manual transmission, the CR-Z fell short. Its hybrid system did not provide the fuel efficiency one would expect from a modern hybrid vehicle.

Performance

The CR-Z's performance was lackluster, failing to deliver the sporty driving experience that fans of the CRX had hoped for. The car's hybrid system added weight without significantly improving fuel economy or performance, making it a confusing and ultimately unsatisfying choice.

Conclusion

While hybrid cars offer numerous benefits, not all models are worth the investment. The 2012 BMW ActiveHybrid 7 and Ford CR-Z are prime examples of hybrids that fail to deliver on their promises. Whether it's poor fuel economy, lackluster performance, or uneven driving characteristics, these models have significant drawbacks that potential buyers should be aware of.

Interesting Stats

  • According to the EPA, the average fuel economy for hybrid cars in 2012 was around 40 mpg, significantly higher than the 20 mpg offered by the BMW ActiveHybrid 7. Source: EPA
  • The Ford CR-Z's additional 700 pounds of weight compared to the CRX significantly impacted its performance and fuel efficiency. Source: Car and Driver

By understanding the limitations of these models, you can make a more informed decision when choosing a hybrid vehicle. For more information on hybrid cars and their performance, visit Consumer Reports and Edmunds.

References

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