The list of vehicles capable of beating the just adopted new greenhouse gas emission rules is growing fast. At the NY Auto Show this week, four manufacturers showed new models that should meet or exceed the pending federal regulations.
The good news is that the most exciting action are not in the tiniest mini and subcompact auto segments, but in family sized vehicles.
2011 Cruze Eco by Chevrolet
The heart of the Cruze Eco is the 1.4 Ecotec turbo. Combined with a 6-speed manual, it enables hybrid levels of fuel efficiency, when in overdrive. The available 6-speed automatic will also provide segment-leading levels of fuel economy with 0-to-60 acceleration in the low 9-second range.
An engineering first in a mass produced vehicle is a shutter in the lower grille that closes at higher speeds to direct air around the vehicle, and opens at lower speeds to help cool the engine. Careful detailing to creating a smooth underside also reduces air drag. The Cruze is one of GM’s most heavily tested vehicles, with over 4 million miles of testing during vehicle development.
Hyundai Sonata Hybrid - Hyundai’s first hybrid registers 37 city and 39 highway mpg, with an all electric top speed of 62 mph. The midsize 2011 Sonata Hybrid will be available in Q4 this year.
Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
Also, Hyundai Hybrid Blue Drive uses the company’s proprietary 6-speed automatic transmission rather than a conventional hybrid’s CVT.
Lexus - The CT 200h made its US debut. It is a 5-door hatch that will use the same NmH battery hybrid drivetrain at the Toyota Prius. This likely means segment leading mileage performance for a compact hybrid that will envelope its passengers with all the creature comforts of a Lexus. The Ct 200h will be available in early 2011.
Lincoln MXZ Hybrid - Slated for introduction this fall, the midsized luxury vehicle has a 41mpg city rating.
Lincoln MKZ Hybrid
The pure electric mode on the Lincoln MKZ Hybrid extends to 47 mph. Ford has four additional new hybrids which will be introduced during the next three years. While smaller than a Lincoln Town Car, fleet owners should rejoice; the current ubiquitous Black Town Car is rated at only 16 mpg.
Now the government needs to provide an incentive, like a property tax credit, for its citizens to buy a home closer to work. That would cut down on fuel consumption and stimulate the housing market at the same time.

AnnArbor.com