photo courtesy of Lexus

Hybrids are becoming more common. With Toyota dominating the market, luxury brands have started to take notice. The CT 200h hatchback is Lexus’s most serious attempt to bring more sound engineering, fuel economy and luxury touches into the growing hybrid market. Let’s find out what’s being said about it.

MotorTrend – First Drive: 2011 Lexus CT 200h (October 2010)

If fuel economy is your thing, the CT 200h gets 42 mpg in the city and 41 mpg on the highway. Those figures are pretty close to the Prius.

MotorTrend calls the CT 200h “a far smoother and more comfortable car to drive than the Prius,” saying that “the CT 200h rides nicely over poor-quality pavement, and vibrations are nearly non-existent. Exterior noise is effectively dampened as well, though not the tire noise.”

The reviewer takes the CT 200h to task over its steering and supposed “sportiness,” which they say doesn’t quite measure up. However, they liked the handling of this car in Sport mode, saying “the safety nannies are dialed back… This car can handle. Quite well, in fact.”

Although they have some pointed words for the dash controls, they like the driver’s seat and position of the steering wheel and pedals.

MotorTrend concludes with: “The most remarkable thing about the CT 200h is how easy it is to forget that you’re driving a hybrid. Regardless of driving mode, transitions to and from electric power and gasoline power are so seamless that you simply forget they’re happening. Power is plenty adequate in most situations, but can leave you wanting when passing or climbing hills. The brakes, meanwhile, are much more linear and dare we say ‘normal’ than Prius brakes.”

Car and Driver – 2011 Lexus CT200h Hybrid: First Drive Review

Car and Driver has several issues with this car. The engine produces “98 hp with an 80-hp electric motor for a combined output of 134. This lowly amount of power has to haul roughly 3200 pounds, so this vehicle is slow. Figure on the amble to 60 mph taking 10 seconds flat.” They say, however, that this will enhance it’s projected gas mileage.

C&D also thinks the interior is too tight, but that controls are well laid-out. They note that there are eight standard air-bags in this car.

C&D is unimpressed with the CT 200h’s pure EV mode, calling it “pure gimmick.” They continue “EV operation is theoretically possible for up to one mile at speeds up to 28 mph, but anything more than the lightest pedal pressure refires the gas engine.” They call the throttle of the three preset driving modes, Eco, Normal and Sport “lazy, lethargic and sluggish,” respectively.

They say it’s generally comparable to other competitor’s hybrids, but conclude: “Given the Lexus’s sloth and dull personality, we’d take one of the European cars—or even the much cheaper, mechanically similar, and more efficient Prius—instead.”

Edmunds – 2011 Lexus CT200h Review

Edmunds calls the CT 200h’s driving modes “sharper and more enjoyable than you’ll find in most other hybrids.” They also tout its fuel economy, but take issue with the acceration. “In our testing,” Edmunds says, “the CT posted a 0-60 time of 10.4 seconds, 0.3 second slower than the already pokey Prius.”

They call the car “a respectable choice.”

“It’s affordably priced, practical and will no doubt be a draw for shoppers prioritizing fuel efficiency,” Edmunds says.

They are in favor of the many safety features, including a collision-notification system. In brake-testing, Edmunds says that “CT’s performance was acceptable, with the car stopping from 60 mph in 120 feet.”

They responded positively to the interior controls: “The shifter sits high on the angled center stack, within easy reach of the driver, and Lexus’ ergonomically stellar Remote Touch controller governs the navigation system — this controller is essentially a mouse that sits on the driver side of the center console, and like the shifter, it’s remarkably easy to reach and use.”

They conclude by saying: “Enthusiast-minded shoppers in this segment will be better served by the nimbler BMW 1 Series or quicker Volvo C30.”

Automobile Magazine – First Drive: 2011 Lexus CT200h

Automobile, like other reviewers, is mystified by Lexus trying to market this car in America, saying “The CT’s spec sheet is only a diesel engine and a clutch pedal short of passing for a European hatch.”

They come down hard on the CT’s pickup, saying it “rather impassionately drones its way to 60 mph in 9.8 seconds,” but, like everyone else, laud its fuel economy. They also say its suspension and handling are greater than that of the Prius.

Automobile says that the three driving modes are boring, the sport having some promise, but with the gas engine kicking in at speed or throttle, it is largely wasted.

They say that “the brake pedal feels OK on soft applications, but its response to big pedal inputs is abruptly nonlinear.”

They conclude the review by griping about the CT’s $31,500 sticker price and posit that this car was designed with Europe in mind, more than anything else. They then say it’s no excuse: “At the end of the day,” Automobile says, “there’s just no comparison between a pain au chocolat and a Hershey bar shoved between two pieces of Wonder Bread.”

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photo courtesy of Lexus

The RX 450h is a luxury crossover hybrid SUV from Lexus. Other than the discontinuation of one of its options packages, it remains unchanged from 2010, so you’ll see reviews from both years. Let’s have a look at what people are saying.

Automobile Magazine – 2010 Lexus RX450h

Automobile says that the RX 450h “represents a careful evolution” of the hybrid crossover SUV, though they note that the trend for Lexus SUVs has been attention to performance over fuel efficiency. However, Automobile says that the newest 450h is making positive strides. It gets 28 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.

The V-6 gas engine and electric motors combine for 295 hp, which Automobile says “makes the hybrid the most powerful RX and produces strong, seamless acceleration.”

Automobile is impressed with the bevy of gadgets that the RX 450h offers (rear- and front-mounted cameras to assist in parking, the center stack controls). They call the interior “plush and comfortable”.

With an estimated base price of $45,000, Automobile concludes: “even with the new car’s higher fuel economy, buying the hybrid is a decision made more for love (of efficiency and the environment) than money (saved at the gas pump).”

MotorTrend – First Test: 2010 Lexus RX 450h AWD

MotorTrend calls the RX 450h “surprisingly quick off the line.” They clocked it at 6.9 seconds, from 0 mph to 60 mph. Although this model is 600 lbs heavier than its predecessor, it stops from 60 mph in 137 ft, which MotorTrend praised.

The gas and electric motors “work together to provide an impressive amount of low-end torque,” MotorTrend says, “and the CVT (continuously variable transmission) does a fine job, but when it comes right down to it, this vehicle is more highway cruiser than engaging driver’s car.” They say that it feels “heavy” in turns and that there isn’t a sufficient feel of connection to the road.

The reviewer says that this SUV is stuffed with “gadgets and gizmos,” which lends to the “jaw-dropping” price tag of $59,800. Of particular note in the review is the Remote Touch controller. MotorTrend says “This is the logical next step in the world of iDrive, MMI, and the rest — and works better than any of those. It’s shaped like a computer mouse and works essentially the same way. It’s so easy to use that, unlike some of the other systems out there, we never found ourselves taking our eyes off the road to operate it.”

MotorTrend calls the RX 450h a “well-built, quiet, comfortable vehicle.” They go on to say “It’s the perfect SUV for those who like what the RX line has to offer and for people who want to be able to carry five people, tow 3500 pounds, and haul up to 80.3 cubic feet of stuff.”

Car and Driver – 2010 Lexus  RX450h All-Wheel Drive – Short Take Road Test

Car and Driver says “The RX does impress…. It was a struggle to find anything even resembling a deal-breaking fault in the serene RX450h. Operation is an exercise in being totally pampered. The electric steering is light but responsive. The ride is mesmerizing. The handling is not tuned for back-road strafing but for boulevard cruising. The interior sparkles with chrome and wood and the softest of leathers and textures.” However, they don’t like the CVT (transmission), saying “It won’t win anyone over.”

They have reservations about the Remote Touch controller, saying “A more serious complaint can be found with the infotainment control, or rather the learning curve associated with mastering it. As this is the newest RX, it uses a free-floating, mouse-type knob thing — think really big ‘eraser style’ control, like the ones found in old laptop keyboards — that directs a pointer on the navigation display… The control can be a bit wonky to get a handle on. But once you hit the plateau on the learning curve, the system works without flaw.”

C&D found that acceleration ajnd braking were good enough. They were a bit surprised by the good straight-line speed the RX 450h offers, as it’s not usually something that exists with hybrids.

Their conclusion: “In a world of ever-growing concerns for all things green, the RX might be one of the more attractive statements this side of the Fisker Karma.”

Edmunds – 2011 Lexus RX 450h SUV

For performance and fuel efficiency, Edmunds says “The 2011 Lexus RX 450h remains a top pick.” They balance their praise however, with this: “The increase in fuel efficiency is certainly an enticing proposition, but it’s worth noting that the RX 450h will set you back more than $5,000 over the RX 350, and that means it’s going to take a number of years to recoup that cost in fuel savings.”

They say that the RX 450h boasts “class-leading interior quality and an impressively smooth and quiet ride.” It also comes with what they describe as a “bevvy” of luxury features.

Edmunds clocked the RX 450h at 7.6 seconds, 0 mph to 60 mph. Their testing also produced 30 mpg, city and 28 mpg, highway. They also note that the RX 450h can tow up to 3,500 lbs.

Edmunds notes the safety features, which includes an Onstar-like system with “automatic collision notification, stolen vehicle locator and emergency assistance button.” Edmund’s says that the RX 450h they tested stopped from 60 mph at 127 ft. They report “In government crash testing, the RX 450h earned perfect five-star marks for front and rear passenger protection in frontal and side impacts. In Insurance Institute for Highway Safety tests, the related RX 350 earned a perfect ‘Good’ rating for its performance in frontal-offset, side-impact and roof-strength tests.”

Edmunds says that the interior quality makes the RX 450h “feel much more expensive than its entry-level status would suggest. Authentic wood trim and high-quality leather lend an air of opulence.”

Edmund’s also says that the Remote Touch is “immediately intuitive and easier to use than other competing interfaces.”

They recommend it over the Porsche Cayenne hybrid and the Volkswagon Touareg hybrid.

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photo courtesy of Lexus

The Lexus HS 250h is a hybrid luxury compact sedan which many people have dubbed Lexus’s answer to the Prius. While it boasts a similar chassis shape and is in the Prius’s class, it is its own car. The 2011 model is unchanged from the 2010 model, so the reviews below cover both years. Let’s see what folks are saying about it.

Edmunds – 2011 Lexus HS 250h

Edmunds says that the HS 250h “truly deliver[s] admirable fuel economy numbers,” as well as “all of the luxury trappings you’d expect from a Lexus.”

The reviewer also says it offers “significantly better performance than a Prius.” Edmunds calls it “quick,” as it accelerates from zero to 60 mph in 8.7 seconds. The downside, they say, is that fuel economy is 35 MPG, which doesn’t touch Prius’s 50 MPG.

The drivetrain is powered by a 2.4-liter inline-4 that works in concert with two electric motor/generators, producing 187 horsepower. Edmunds assessment is that this car “won’t impress spirited drivers as much as frugal owners.” They add “Transitions between gasoline and electric propulsion are seamless and smooth, though throttle response is a bit leisurely.”  

Edmunds says the HS 250h is “loaded” with luxury features, including “the fine leather surfaces and wood trim that you’d expect in any Lexus.” The review says that the interior has “impeccable fit and finish.” They also note the car’s noiseless ride and strong performance in safety testing.

Car and Driver – 2010 Lexus HS250h Hybrid: Short Take Road Test

 Car and Driver says “Think of it as the Prius of Lexuses or the Lexus of Priuses.” In comparing the two vehicles, C&D notes that the HS250h is 1.4 seconds faster than the Prius, thanks to the more powerful engine, but “pays the piper” in fuel economy.

Making more comparisons, C&D says “The Prius and the HS250h feel virtually identical from behind the electrically assisted steering wheel… Road feel is pretty much zero.” They call the steering response “direct and reasonably quick,” and add that “the interior sound quality isn’t exactly up to the traditional Lexus-isolationist level.” They say that the engine and transmission make a conspicuous “mooing” sound when accelerating, which they did not care for.

The HS 250h features “Power” and ”Eco” driving modes, of which C&D say: “We noticed a canyon of difference between the two modes and a commensurate difference between the resulting fuel economy, as well. Employing our best hypermiling techniques in Eco mode for many miles, we eked the HS250 to over 42 mpg… In Power mode, we enjoyed crisper acceleration, of course, but had a hard time getting mileage anywhere above the high 20s.”

C&D gives this car passing marks for tons of luxury accoutrements, but they say that “dynamically, the HS250h leaves a lot to be desired.”

Final word? “We’d rather have a Prius.”

MotorTrend – First Drive: 2010 Lexus HS 250h

MotorTrend says that, while the HS 250h borrows greatly from other models, that it is “a dedicated hybrid platform.” They say that the HS 250h “is about maximum efficiency with minimal environmental impact.”

About the center stack bevy of controls and displays, MotorTrend says “This system is so easy to use it makes most other central controller designs look silly.”

They call the interior a “comfy enough place,” with “good” amounts of space. They go on to say “The materials choices aren’t as dazzling as they are in upper-crust Lexus models, but everything is of high quality and fits together nicely.”

Describing driving this car, they say “ ‘Efficient’? Yes. ‘Soothing’? Maybe. ‘Luxurious’? Mostly. ‘Exciting’? No.” They fault the car’s attention to efficiency leading to more driving noise than you’d normally get from a Lexus. The steering, MotorTrend says has “more feel and response” than a Prius, but the brakes feel “wooden and nonlinear.” It handles “well enough” and rides “comfortably.”

MotorTrend concludes that if “you value mph over mpg and redlines above green ones, there are many more compelling choices in this price range.”

Automobile Magazine – Driven: 2010 Lexus HS250h

The HS 250h’s design “doesn’t really stand out the way the Prius’s does,” Automobile says. “It’s a rather ordinary-looking compact sedan with vague Corolla overtones and a big chrome grille.”

They call the fuel economy “very impressive.” The reviewer says that “the advertised fuel economy numbers are entirely credible. According to the dashboard readout, I was able to surpass both figures without resorting to any hyper-miling tricks, but I also sometimes fell well short when driving in hilly terrain and accelerating hard.”

Automobile also noticed the “un-Lexus-like engine drone.” They said that “in highway cruising the engine is quieter, but you can feel it just a bit as the system alternates between battery pack assist and charging — it’s a sensation sort of like driving into a gusty headwind.”

The reviewer liked the steering enough and said the suspension wasn’t “complete mush,” though the ride isn’t as “plush” as a traditional Lexus.

The interior does “live up to Lexus standards.” The reviewer praised the interior space, calling it a “surprising amount.” According to Automobile it “bristles with available equipment” and the center stack console was adequate.

Automobile concludes: “Despite the plethora of equipment and the plush interior, the HS250h driving experience isn’t quite on par with the other Lexus models, but its 35 mpg city rating is tops among luxury-brand rides.”

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photo courtesy of Lexus

The GS 450h is a midsize luxury hybrid sedan. It’s remained largely unchanged since its debut in 2007. All of the reviews below, except for Edmunds, are for the 2010 model, which, minus some trim packages, is the same car as last year. Lexus says that its fourth generation of GS’s are on the horizon. Let’s see what people are saying about the GS 450h.

 Edmunds – 2011 Lexus GS 450h

The GS 450h has a 3.5-liter V6, which produces 292 horsepower. The electric motors turn that up to 340 hp. Edmunds says “With this kind of power on tap, it’s clear that this hybrid is geared more toward increasing performance than reducing fuel consumption.”

The EPA says the 450h gets 23 mpg highway and city. Edmunds says that it “seems like the smart choice between its gas-only powered brethren — at least until you consider the price.” The price is nearly $56,000.

While Edmunds was generally pleased with the luxury packages available, they do say “Our gripes are minor and include less-than-intuitive audio controls and a distracting glare from the highly polished wood trim.” Yes, the wood trim is too shiny.

Performance-wise, Edmunds says that the GS 450h is “well-suited to a variety of driving styles.” Edmunds liked the different driving modes available and called the ride “smooth” and “soft.” They compared it to the Lexus HS 250h and Lincoln MKZ Hybrid, but said that while they are cheaper and much more fuel-efficient, neither was as sporty as the GS. They also mentioned the BMW 335d and Mercedes-Benz E350 Bluetec, both of which provide similar performance and better fuel economy, but they are diesels, not hybrids.

Automobile Magazine – 2010 Lexux GS 450h

Automobile had five staff members comment on the GS 450h. The reviewers agreed that it is commensurate with “the Lexus experience.” They go on to call it “refined, isolated, and comfortable and is a great highway driver.”

Automobile‘s biggest complaint is that the car has too much torque, a problem one called “extremely annoying” because it is difficult to keep the car at a steady speed. Another reviewer says that the GS 450h has “gobs of thrust” and that the throttle is “touchy.” They also call the brakes “extremely touchy.”

About its suspension, one reviewer states that it “absolutely melts away rough pavement in true Lexus fashion.”

Automobile also says “The hybrid system is well enough integrated that it’s often hard to tell what’s working — the engine, the motor, or both.” Overall, they seemed to feel the car was nice but not spectacular, and the low fuel efficiency numbers made it tough to call it a truly “green” vehicle.

Autoblog – Review: Lexus GS450h Uses Electrons for Fun

Autoblog was very warm to the GS 450h. They say that their impression made them wanted to call other car-makers and say “Put batteries in everything, and do it just like this.”

About the interior, Autoblog says that the GS 450h is consistent with its other fleet-mates. They say “A Lexus cabin is a room at the Ritz.” The center console controls are “easier to find and use, and dispels the Mission Control sensation some of other cars in its class evoke.”

They say that ignition is silent, as the GS 450h starts in electric mode, but that once you get it on the road, the noise dampening that Lexus is famous for falls short. There is noticeable driving noise.

They call the acceleration “gazelle fast,”adding “The GS 450h accelerates like it doesn’t want to be eaten. Instant torque, party of one, your stoplight is ready. And this is in any gear, at any speed. Hit gas and there’s no ‘and,’ you just go.” They call the steering “fine,” though not “pinpoint precise”. They aren’t fond of the brakes, either.

They call the traction control “so severely intrusive it could wear an honorific like Master Joykill or King of Pain,” continuing “As soon as [the front wheel] starts squealing the TC shows up and hoses everything down. Power is cut, brakes start dancing, lights start flashing, the rear wheels do a little hop step to get things back in line.” Conversely, they found that the car was very difficult to handle with the TC turned off.

They conclude that the GS 450h has one minor problem and one major problem: ”The surge and the price.” They noticed the extra-sensitive acceleration and, like other reviewers, compared this car with less-costly, similar-performing options in its class.

The Detroit News – The 2010 Lexus GS 450h Is a Performance Hybrid

 The Detroit News calls the GS 450h “one of the most fun Lexus cars to drive,” adding, “It’s all sport on the highway.”

They call the pickup “phenomenal.” About the driving it delivers? The reviewer says “On the open road, it’s library quiet. The steering is crisp. While heavy, the body remains stiff through turns and its adaptive variable suspension holds the car nicely to the road.” The reviewer says that, on the highway, this car is “amazingly quiet and well-mannered.” He also says that the GS 450h weighs 4,000 pounds, which hurts its cornering abilities and overall “sporty” feel.

About the hybrid aspect of this car, The Detroit Newssays “The electric motors seem to act as a boost for the car, pushing it quickly forward and inspiring the driver to push the accelerator a little harder.” They call it “a hybrid for enthusiasts, one that uses electricity for power and not just efficiency.”

About the appearance, the reviewer says “It turns heads for certain.” The interior gets more rave reviews: “The wood and leather create a natural and comfortable environment… The gauges sparkle with watch-like precision.”

The Detroit News concludes: “What more could a driver want?”

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photo courtesy of Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes’s E350 BlueTEC attempts to revive diesel cars in America, with the German automaker’s trademark mix of luxury and performance. Let’s break down what’s been said about the E350.

MotorTrend – First Test: 2011 Mercedes-Benz E350 Bluetec

MotorTrend says “the E350 Bluetec is not a blast to drive, period,” adding “In fact, the driving experience is actually quite dull.” They say that the motor noise is quite loud, compared to other modern diesels, although the cabin does a good job at dampening the noise. The shifts are quiet, as well.

Regarding performance, MotorTrend says: “Acceleration is lackluster, with the 210-horsepower, 400-pound-foot turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 needing 7.5 seconds to get the 4167-pound sedan to 60 mph and 15.6 seconds to get it through the quarter mile. The brakes… are fairly middle of the road as well, with 60-0 mph requiring 128 feet. Handling? That’s middling too.”

MotorTrend goes on to praise its fuel economy as a trade-off for its performance: 22 mpg city and 33 mpg highway. Mercedes is charging $1,500 more for the diesel E350, but the review notes that this will come back in fuel-cost savings.

The reviewer likes many of the options and packages that come with the E350 (if not their price), but finds the center stack controls to be cheap-looking.

The final assessment? “Given its fuel economy and ability to effortlessly eat up highway miles, it would certainly make a great road-trip car. Just prepare to be stared at a lot by truckers on the rare occasion that you have to fill up.”

Car and Driver – 2011 Mercedes-Benz E350 BlueTec Diesel – Short Take Road Test

Car and Driver is similarly unimpressed with the E350 Bluetec’s acceleration saying it “isn’t nearly as astounding as those torque figures might suggest.” They add: “Our test car posted a tepid 7.2-second 0-to-60 time, nearly a second off the 258-pound-footed, gas-powered E350’s 6.3 seconds. We attribute some of this laggardlyness to our diesel’s 300 extra pounds, most of it exhaust-scrubbing hardware.”

They call the engine “solid, firm, unbreakable.” They call the steering “slow, a bit numb, and not very linear,” the brakes “deliberate and predictable.”

Car and Driver says “The ride is absolutely stable, and the car tracks with locomotive determination. Responses are stout; this is a linebacker, not a wide receiver.”

They also praise the range of this car, again noting that this is the major selling point, not killer performance.

The Car and Driver test car was equipped with the Premium 2 package which included navigation, Harman/Kardon audio, HID headlamps, and heated seats and a lot more. C&D say that “nothing approaching the full cost of the Bluetec system’s hardware appears to be passed along to the consumer, and fuel savings promise to be significant if diesel prices remain close to those of gasoline.” But they do mention that the Bluetec replacement urea will set you back about $1500 every 100,000 miles, negating much of the fuel savings.

Car and Driver concludes that the E350 Bluetec “defines luxury as the reduction of stress.”

Automobile Magazine – 2011 Mercedes-Benz E350 Bluetec

Automobile says that the E350 has “that old-school Mercedes vibe” and “unmistakable Autobahn breeding.” The suspension is firm and “The steering effort is consistent and not overly light. You sit on large, firm, flat seats… [T]hen of course there’s the diesel engine gurgling away under the hood. The whole effect is very Germanic.”

They say the best thing about this car is its engine and its impressive fuel economy: “According to the trip computer, this test car had averaged 29 mpg over the previous 550 miles, which is pretty darn impressive for a mid-size luxury car — especially one that’d been driven by my heavy-footed colleagues.” They also say the engine is a bit loud. The steering is referred to as “numb.”

It seems as if Automobile’s reviewers couldn’t muster a lot of excitement for the E350 Bluetec, but they came to a similar conclusion as other reviewers: “A car doesn’t need to autocross reflexes or drag strip muscle to exude personality.”

They conclude: “What the E-class does manage, even with an oil-burner, is to carry off an air of bank-vault solidity that still eludes most imitators.”

Edmunds – 2011 Mercedes-Benz E350 Bluetec Road Test and also the 2011 Mercedes-Benz E350 Ratings

Edmunds says the E350 Bluetec “is a luxury sedan that non-diesel buyers should test-drive, since it shows us why the diesel engine is the powertrain of choice for many Europeans.”

They say it hustles from 0 to 60 in 7.7 seconds and note the appeal of its range: “with a fuel tank capacity of more than 21 gallons, the car’s cruising range is 696 miles on the open road.”

As far as the steering goes, they say it handles well “although its light-effort steering isn’t too communicative.” They add: “This car feels tremendously stable. Not a very sporting car but isn’t trying to be, which is actually kind of refreshing.”

Again, with an allusion to old-school Mercedes performance, Edmunds says that the E350 “rides like a Mercedes of 25 years ago.” They were generally in favor of the controls at the driver’s disposal and called the cabin space “ample.”

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The Lexus 600h L hybrid car is Lexus’s attempt at cornering the luxury full-size sedan market and it’s a hybrid to boot. Let’s see what the automotive press had to say about it.

MotorTrend – 2011 Lexus LS 600h L First Test (March 2011)

Many reviewers note the extremity of the noiseless, vibrationless ride that this car offers. MotorTrend speaks of Lexus’s “single-minded pursuit of isolating passengers from the outside world.” They continue: “The automaker says the car is one of the quietest automobiles ever built, and we have no reason to doubt that claim.”

But MotorTrend wasn’t impressed by the powertrain. It lacks the speed and power of its competitors, yet doesn’t deliver enough fuel efficiency to really compensate for that. The reviewer says: “The L in the LS 600h L stands for Lagging, as in lagging behind the competition.” The 600h L delivered 20 MPG in combined city/highway driving during testing.

They go on to say: “Throttle response is actually very good, making the car seem faster than it is, though on a couple occasions, the brakes were more forceful than expected.” They say that the steering feels disconnected, but not bad for a hybrid.

About the luxury specs. MotorTrend tested a model with the Executive Class Seating Package, which they describe as a great place to spend some time:

“The right rear seat includes an ottoman, butterfly rear headrests, a rear air purifier, extra air ducts for the backseat passengers, a rear-seat entertainment system using a 9-inch screen, power rear window and rear windshield sunshades, heated and cooled rear seats with memory, and a rear passenger seat that reclines up to 45 degrees and has an excellent massaging function.” That may sound absurd, but luxury is what this car is all about. MotorTrend also loved Lexus’s COMAND interior controls.

Two drawbacks noted were the 600h L’s parking-assist feature, which they hate, and the trunk’s “pitiful” cargo space.

MotorTrend makes a case that for $100,000, a buyer should never feel as if they have compromised. They liken the 600h L to a good idea in need of improvement.

Edmunds – 2011 Lexus LS 600h L Full Review

Edmunds faults the 600h L’s curb-weight, 5,300 pounds, as its serious impediment to real feul efficiency, saying “the Lexus trails behind the 12-cylinder competition by a significant margin and offers little fuel economy benefit compared to the regular gas-only LS,” At $40,000 more than it’s gas-fired version, and only 1 MPG better in fuel efficiency, they say the price is hard to justify.

Like MotorTrend, they were impressed by the serenity of the interior, referring to it as “quiet as a crypt”, but unimpressed by the car’s performance.

So while the 600h L is well-appointed, Edmunds says: “As an automotive isolation chamber, the LS 600h is among the world’s best, but this is not a sport sedan by any stretch of the imagination.” They conclude that “For the eco-conscious buyer, BMW’s line of Active Hybrid sedans are priced well below this Lexus, as is the Mercedes-Benz S400 hybrid. For the performance-minded shopper, models like the BMW Alpina B7, Jaguar XJ and Porsche Panamera are all considerably better choices.”

Car and Driver – 2008 Lexus LS600hL Short Take Road Test

Car and Driver reviewed the 600h L in 2008, when the model premiered. Except for a discontinued suspension system, the 600h L has remained the same since its debut.

They called this car “deceptively fast.” They say that “the sensation is one of eerie understatement as the 5220-pound sedan hurls itself down the road.”

About Lexus’s claim of V-12-like performance, C&D says “It’s hard to argue with that comparison unless the V-12 in question is in a Mercedes-Benz twin-turbo model, and in that instance, Lexus should expect to get its butt kicked.”

They call the 600h L “extraordinarily quiet, with particular attention paid to suppressing noise wherever it’s found.”

They also praise the pre-collision safety system. “This system detects objects, determines the likelihood of a collision, and then applies the brakes up to 40 percent of maximum force without any action by the driver.”

Car and Driver deemed that the performance and hybrid benefits justified the price.

Kelley Blue Book: 2011 Lexus LS 600h L Review (April 2011)

KBB calls the 600h L “the epitome of the manufacturer’s efforts.”

They refer to the interior room as “vast” and say that gas mileage is “acceptable.”

KBB also says that “there’s little evidence of the hybrid powertrain. Drivers actually have to concentrate to discern whether the engine has shut off at a stoplight. Unlike most hybrids, which emit a slight “bump” when the gas engine starts, powertrain changes are nearly imperceptible in the big Lexus… Touch the gas pedal and the LS 600h L simply moves relentlessly and smoothly ahead as rapidly as the driver wishes – exhibiting little evidence that the gasoline engine is on or off.”

They also glow over the parking-assist feature, saying: “Admittedly, the novelty may wear off quickly, but it’s hard to keep your eyes off this Lexus as it parallel parks without human assistance.” In general they say the car has “enough gadgets to keep any techie grinning from ear to ear.”

So Kelley Blue Book sides with Car and Driver in giving the 600h L a positive review.

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Here’s a round-up of reviews about Chevy’s flagship plug-in electric vehicle hybrid, the 2011 edition of the Volt.

Edmunds – 2011 Chevrolet Volt

Edmunds does a good job of explaining exactly what the Volt is:

“The Volt is a four-seat, four-door ‘series-parallel plug-in hybrid’ hatchback with a lithium-ion battery pack that can power the car’s 149-horsepower (111-kilowatt) electric motor by itself for an estimated 40 miles in the city. After that, the gasoline-powered inline-4 engine primarily supplies electricity to the motor for as many as 300 additional miles. All told, the Volt is the most advanced hybrid to date and quite possibly the most fuel-efficient car you will be able to buy.”

They note that there is no standard way to determine fuel-efficiency. If you never fully deplete the battery (by going a short distance at an easy clip and recharging the car every night) then you may never use any fuel. But over longer distances, you’ll use gas. Edmunds measured the fuel economy of the Volt with an empty battery and found it to be 31.4 mpg. In their long-term road test, they found the Volt varied between 47.9 and 111.5 in “apparent” MPG.

In Edmunds performance testing, the Volt went from zero to 60 mph in 9.2 seconds in electric mode and 9 seconds flat with the engine generator. Both are fairly quick times for the traditional hybrid segment. They were satisfied with the pickup and handling, though they called the brakes “touchy.”

Edmunds also found the interior intriguing. The Volt boasts some very impressive console features which they rated as “fairly intuitive.” They described the space and comfort in the cab as “a little disappointing,” finding the back seats to be cramped and the hatchback a bit lacking in storage capacity.

They conclude: “If you want an intriguing yet practical taste of a greener automotive future, the 2011 Chevy Volt might be just what the General ordered.”

MotorTrend – First Test: 2011 Chevy Volt (December 2010)

MotorTrend says the Volt “shows a lot of promise.” and that it “accelerates fairly smartly right up to its 101-mph top speed—with or without the 84-horsepower gasoline engine switched on.”

The review says that the Volt goes from 0 to 60 at 8.8 seconds with full electric power and “it blows Toyota’s plug-in Prius away (9.8 seconds to 60 mph), and runs neck and neck with a 2.4-liter Malibu in acceleration and handling tests.” The MotorTrend test team agreed that the daily commute is where the Volt shines, describing it as “quick and nippy” in traffic.

The review goes on to praise the wealth of information and controls available on screens in the cockpit, although it mentioned that some can require too much attention to operate while driving. The steering was referred to as a little “numb,” but always straight and accurate. And the car’s regenerative brakes also drew praise.

MotorTrend identified price as the number-one drawback: $41,000, not including the installation of a 240-volt charger to bring recharge time down from 11 hours to 4.

Car and Driver – 2011 Chevrolet Volt Full Test (October 2010)

Car and Driver gripes about the lack of electric-car-charging infrastructure nationwide and makes a cogent point: that the mass-produced pure electrics cannot make long- or medium-range trips. They then praise the Volt for it’s included gas engine, which assists the car’s electric motor. They then state: “although the Volt has both a gas engine and two electric motors—one primarily to power the wheels and a second to generate electricity from the gas engine—it is unlike any gas-electric hybrid on the road today: If charged sufficiently, it can operate continuously, at any speed, as an EV, without ever needing to switch on the gas engine.”

But this comes with a drawback: the technology necessary for this efficiency is expensive.

The review also describes the user-interface that tells the driver the sweet-spot to keep the car in to maximize energy-efficiency. An LCD panel shows a spinning, green ball of leaves. Keep the ball green and in the middle of the display, and you’re accelerating and braking with maximum efficiency. Which sounds crazy, but C&D assures us it’s easy to use. This feature is also complemented with touch-sensitive controls and displays that convey to the driver the current performance of the car.

The reviewer goes on to state that the Volt, like other EV’s, has a smooth thrust. There’s is no mechanical downshifting. The reviewers were also impressed with the Volt’s quiet motor. They were also taken with the powertrain and suspension, saying the Volt drives “surprisingly well”. The brakes, however, can feel “disconnected” at low speeds. A third reviewer mentioned that the front ground clearance is so low that it was easy to scrape it on speed bumps.

The range that the Volt can accomplish will vary based on driving conditions, but the C&D crew got anywhere from 26 miles to the upper 30′s with just battery power. Coupled with the gas motor, C&D estimated 74 MPGe.

Overall, Car and Driver was impressed, and concludes: “This is without a doubt the most important new car since the advent of hybrids in the late ’90s, and GM has nailed it.”

Automobile Magazine – 2011 Chevrolet Volt Review (June 21, 2011)

Automobile has seven staffers give their opinion. Let’s break them down:

All the reviewers seem united against the center console, saying it’s too busy and that the touch controls are too difficult to operate while driving without taking your attention from the road. They all gripe about the limited rear seating and several dislike that the cargo area is visible from the back seat.

The Volt’s handling and acceleration are given good marks. One reviewer says it drives “like any other compact passenger car,” with the exception of the regenerative brakes. Another reviewer says that stepping on the brake peddle “at first doesn’t seem to decelerate the car at all, then engages the brakes so unexpectedly as to produce unintentional panic-stops.” They use terms like “seamless” and “unnoticeable”  to describe the Volt’s transition from electric power to gas.

Most of the Automobile reviewers seemed to feel that the Volt hit the mark as a good “transition” car from gas-only vehicles to electric-only vehicles, successfully alleviating the “range anxiety” common with EVs like the Nissan Leaf. Has anyone test driven one yet, or purchased one? I’ve seen them on the lot here in Dallas, and I’ve heard they are at bigger dealerships in large cities like New York, Seattle, Los Angeles and Phoenix Chevrolet where you can check them out in person.

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The Nissan Leaf is a major attempt at delivering the prototypical electric car that will revolutionize green personal transportation. Let’s see what the automotive press has to say about this year’s model.

MotorTrend – Full Drive: 2011 Nissan Leaf (10/27/10)

The review team at MotorTrend has this to say about the Leaf: “It’s mostly unremarkable as a ‘Car of the Future.’ And while that may seem like damning it with faint praise, it’s really the highest praise this car can be given.” The point being is that this is an approachable car for the mass car-buying demographic. In fact, they say that driving the Leaf is just like driving any other gas-powered four-cylinder hatchback and the electric car learning curve was painless.

The review spends some time discussing the Leaf’s range (averaging 100 miles, but dropping to 60 in difficult conditions like winter rush hour) and charging time (20 hours at 120 volts, 8 hours at 240 volts). They note that “Nissan is banking on the advent of ‘Quick Charge’ stations wired to commercial-grade 440-volt power supplies that can give you an 80-percent charge in just 30 minutes.” How much would it cost to charge? Charging prices are difficult to gauge, because electricity utility rates vary by location and even time of day. In Los Angeles, they estimate, “It works out to anywhere from $1.10 to $3.84 for a full charge.”

The review notes that while Nissan requires a yearly battery check-up for Leaf owners, a Leaf driver can “forget oil changes every three months, timing belts, coolant flushes, and so on and so forth.”

MotorTrend characterizes the the steering “quick,” and the handling “nimble,” and the ride “smooth.”  About the interior, they say that “there’s room for five if you squeeze a bit.” They also liked the looks of the recycled materials used for the interior. The one negative they found was the “awkwardly shaped” cargo area.

Lastly, MotorTrend mentions the “fantastic” price of the Leaf after federal and state incentives bring the price down under $21,000 in 4 states: California, Hawaii, Georgia and Colorado. Then they openly wonder if people will still be open to EVs once government subsidies expire. Their conclusion? “If all EVs are as good as this one,” they say “we wouldn’t bet against it.”

Car and Driver – 2011 Nissan Leaf SL Long-Term Road Test (May 2011)

Car and Driver added the Leaf to its long-term fleet, testing the Leaf’s performance over time. The first thing they did was check acceleration. The 2011 Leaf goes from 0 to 60 mph in 10.0 seconds, a performance that they dubbed “quick enough for around-town use.”

C&D says charge times “aren’t quick.” They say that, according to their estimates, the Leaf is averaging only 58 miles of range and 80 MPGe, falling quite short of the advertised estimates of 100 miles of range and 97 MPGe. But they attribute part of that to Michigan winter temperatures and no heated seats or steering wheel (which are more energy-efficient than the heater in cold weather). They mention that “range anxiety” was a factor for some staffers, including the “what if” factor — what if my battery was drained and there was an emergency and I needed to go somewhere?

On the plus side, C&D says “There’s plenty of space inside to carry people and stuff comfortably…. As a runabout, mixing it up with the best of Ann Arbor’s many Toyota Priuses, the Leaf is perhaps the best third car many of us who live in town could ask for.”

Automobile Magazine – First Drive: 2011 Nissan Leaf (11/2/10)

Automobile call the Leaf’s acceleration “energetic”. Elaborating, they say “The Zen-like tranquility is pierced only by a hushed wind and tire ruffle plus a subtle pedestrian-alert whistle… The Leaf is swift enough not to be called a laggard but its 9.7-second amble from rest to sixty mph won’t earn acclaim from the National Hot Rod Association.” They proceed to note that “The generally plush ride goes jiggly over bumps… The steering must be minded during highway cruising.”

The review team called the interior “light and lively” with ample head and leg room. They say that there is no drivetrain noise or vibration detectable at all. Automobile loved the instrument panel, saying “Nissan has outdone itself here.” They were warm towards the performance indicator screens, as well, saying “These entertaining displays help diffuse range anxiety.”

They concluded that “This is a real car, not a risky science experiment” and that it would make a great second or third car for an affluent family. But they felt the loss of spur-of-the-moment versatility due to range limitations was still a significant drawback.

Edmunds – 2011 Nissan Leaf Road Test

Edmunds says “The electric car’s time has finally arrived… We’ve all heard this ‘future of transportation’ claim before, attached to everything from hybrids to biodiesels, but the 2011 Nissan Leaf does manage to reinvent the electric car as we’ve known it so far.”

The review says that the Leaf drives “like any other car,” continuing that it has “more than enough pep to keep up with traffic, particularly when combined with the Leaf’s instant-on throttle response that’s characteristic of an electric motor drivetrain.”

They bring up range: “This means that while the Leaf can hit 90 mph and cruises easily at 75 mph, a foreboding sense of ever-dwindling travel range dominates the driving experience. This can make even aggressive drivers think twice about goosing the throttle.” Edmunds mentions their model got around 88 miles of range during their test drive.

The review notes that the ride is “at least as sporty as a typical economy car.” About the Eco driving mode, they “noticed a subdued throttle reaction and aggressive (but not intrusive) regenerative braking force whenever we lifted off the go pedal.”

Edmunds loved the interior, saying passenger entry is “a snap,” and generally praising the roomy feeling of the inside of the Leaf. They also noted that the car is “eerily quiet at any speed below 70.”

They recommend the Leaf for environmentally minded buyers anxious to break their oil addiction.

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The BMW 335d is a diesel-burning luxury mid-size sedan. Originally released in 2009, this car has garnered breathless reviews. It’s apparently a lot of fun to drive. Unfortunately, 2011 will be the last production year for this car, as BMW makes way for its next generation of the 3-series. Apart from a new Sport package and better stereo equipment, the car has remained the same since 2009. All the reviews mentioned are for 2009, except for Automobile’s, which covers 2010.

MotorTrend – First Drive: 2009 BMW 335d (October 2008)

MotorTrend is practically panting when its review starts: “Prepare to have your prejudices shattered and your perceptions altered. Prepare to relearn everything you thought you knew about performance cars. Prepare to drive the 2009 BMW 335d.”

What drives every red-blooded reviewer crazy is the 335d’s engine, which MotorTrend describes as “a twin-turbo, 3.0L straight-six that delivers 265 hp… and a thumping 425 lb-ft of torque between 1750 and 2250 rpm.” It’s paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, going from 0 to 60 mph in six seconds. And, because it’s a diesel, fuel efficiency is 23 mpg city and 36 mpg on the highway.

MotorTrend says that the 335d is “a totally different kind of drive” than its gas-burning stablemates in the 3 series:

“Forget the silken rush of power and the marvelous top-end bite you’ve always gotten from a BMW inline-six — the 335d’s twin-turbo diesel growls like Tom Waits gargling Irish Cream and produces a tidal wave of torque from just over 1000 rpm. Squeeze the pedal, and the 335d makes an elastic lunge for the horizon, the transmission shifting early to surf the torque. It doesn’t sound like you’re going fast. But you are.”

To meet US emissions standards, MotorTrend says that the 335d comes with an “advanced exhaust gas recirculation system and a urea injection system that works with a special catalyst to neutralize NOx emissions.” Urea change comes standard with regular service on your car.

MotorTrend’s assessment is that “the BMW 335d is going to surprise a lot of people.” As we’ll see, MotorTrend and its pack of power enthusiasts won’t be the only ones singing the 335d’s praises.

Car and Driver – 2009 BMW 335d Road Test (April 2009)

Car and Driver starts out discussing the price of the 335d, compared to the 335i (gasoline version). The base for the 335d is around $44,000 and even after tax breaks its around $1500 more expensive than the 335i. And while the 335d gets better gas mileage, they say diesel fuel is more expensive than premium gasoline (however as of August 2011, national diesel and premium prices are just about even).

They conclude that the most compelling reason to buy the 335d is torque, saying “the 335d generates enough to affect the rotation of the earth… Touch the throttle, and that tidal wave of torque thrusts the 335d forward like a barrel going over Niagara.”

C&D praises the 335d’s standard 3-series traits like “precise steering, eager responses, supple ride,” but is much more interested in heaping praise in this car’s off-the-line-punch. They go so far as to compare it to classic muscle cars.

C&D does note some downsides, saying “For one, this car isn’t as quiet as its gasoline counterparts, particularly when cold. For another, there’s the urea injection deal.” C&D calls refilling the urea  “a hassle and a minor expense.” On the other hand, they can’t get away from this car’s power. Their conclusion? “Torque will set you free.”

Automobile Magazine – Driven: 2010 BMW 335d (November 2009)

Mentioning performance and fuel economy, Automobile says that “in the 335d, perhaps more so than any other car on the road, you get both.”

The 3-series cars, Automobile explains “display an athleticism that has seduced one test driver after another… The diesel is no different – steering, brakes, suspension, all the BMW good stuff is here.”

They call the automatic transmission “a perfectly suited partner” to the engine. “It’s not like you have to keep the revs up to get the most out of this engine,” Automobile says. “Unlike some diesels, the BMW six continues to pull impressively all the way up the rev range.”

Automobile mentions a few options not available with the diesel version of the 335, including manual transmission, all-wheel drive, and a 2-door coupe body style. But the 335d “spanks” the competition on fuel economy, which is a big plus.

Autoblog – 2009 BMW 335d proves ‘Efficient Dynamics’ more entertaining than it sounds

Autoblog notes that with the price of diesel trending right along with gasoline, that maybe fuel savings aren’t what makes this car a great buy. It sides with all the other reviewers in underscoring performance.

They call the 335d “torquetastic.” It “harbors the stones of a muscle car – or a full-size pickup.”

Autoblog also notes that the he 335d “feels more at home piling up miles on the interstate than its octaned-up stablemates, where it can lope along effortlessly, its gargantuan passing power just a throttle-tickle away.” The smoothness of the ride, they say, makes the speed that you can achieve “nearly impossible to appreciate.” At speed, the engine noise is nearly “non-existent.”

The range of 525+ miles possible in this car, with its generous fuel economy, Autoblog rates as “Kegel muscle-straining.”  Autoblog also loved the “rock-solid chassis, progressive, drama-free brakes and tight, linear rack-and-pinion steering.”

Autoblog doesn’t care for the interior. “This sedan’s cabin is getting on a bit,” they say. “Color and trim choices are restrained and rather somber, there’s too much hard (if well-grained) plastic, and the pop-out cupholders are about as accommodating as the warden at Sing Sing. In fact, the whole interior generally feels style-free.” They like the iDrive control on the center-stack, which resembles a mouse that navigates the car’s display.

They call the 335d “a substantial improvement in fuel economy and a motoring style all its own… It paves its own way to driving excitement.”

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To the average American car buyer, diesel is synonymous with truckers, farm equipment, and an upscale clothing brand. For Europeans however, diesel is the must-have fuel for those who can’t stomach the $8.70/gal (current average price in Germany) for gasoline. With diesel selling for $1 less per gallon and providing greater fuel economy, it’s no wonder more Europeans prefer diesel cars. While American fuel prices remain far cheaper, recent price hikes have had more people asking: where’s our diesel option?

A host of factors have contributed to the dearth of diesel cars here in the United States. Until 2007, the allowable sulfur content in American diesel fuel was far higher than in Europe, requiring manufacturers to completely re-engineer engines for our market. While the sulfur content is now the same, American limits on NOx and NO2 emissions are still significantly lower than their European counterparts, demanding use of an expensive urea-injection additive such as AdBlue to meet standards. Higher labor costs have also been an issue, as most diesels built in European countries suffer from unfavorable exchange rates when exported overseas. Building a diesel engine factory in either the U.S. or Mexico would reduce labor cost – if buyers can be found for the 350,000 units a year a typical $350 million factory puts out. Finally, EPA certification for a new engine adds even more to the bottom line.

These issues have understandably risk-averse car makers asking: will our diesel cars sell? Can we recover costs and make a profit?  Even in Europe, the diesel engine option still adds $1,500 – $3,000 to the sticker price. Until recently, few Americans would’ve swallowed that bitter pill at purchase time. But times may be changing.

Wondering what we’re missing? Here’s a look at five great diesel cars we can’t get here in the U.S.A. (and two we very well might).

Volkswagen Polo BlueMotion Diesel

1. Volkswagen Polo BlueMotion

Volkswagen’s Polo is a small hatchback that looks a lot like a shrunken Golf. Indeed, it does share some of the same basic hardware underneath its familiar skin. BlueMotion is the brand VW has created for its most frugal line of vehicles, and the Polo BlueMotion delivers. With a tiny 1.2 liter turbodiesel engine to move the lightweight Polo, the BlueMotion just barely gets out of its own way. Getting to 60 mph in 13.6 seconds might be laughable to some, but the stellar 71 MPG it gets on the European combined cycle proves that there are some races the tortoise does win.

2. Ford Fiesta Econetic

With a 90 hp diesel engine, subtle aerodynamic tweaks and low rolling resistance tires, the Ford Fiesta Econetic scores big on efficiency earning a high 63.5 MPG on the Euro combined cycle, and an impressively low 98 grams per kilometer release of C02. Unfortunately, the British-built hatchback would sell for $22,000 at current exchange rates. With a base Fiesta sedan starting at $13,800 there’s little chance savings at the pump could ever get your initial investment back. Hopefully Ford will find a way to build diesel engines in North America for the next generation Fiesta Econetic.

3. Mini Cooper D

Mini has already won hearts and minds the world over with its mix of funky style and effervescent personality. The base Mini Cooper is widely recognized as a fun and efficient commuter with nimble handling and a healthy 32 MPG average economy figure. The European Cooper D improves on that performance with a commendable 65 MPG combined. The sparkling torque figure of 188lbs/ft – more twist that the sporting Cooper S puts out — gives the Cooper D a satisfying shove in normal driving, and makes it quick off the line. Shame we haven’t received the diesel option… yet. Mini is still considering offering a diesel option here in the future.

4. Volvo S40 DRIVe

While long associated with industry-leading safety innovation, Volvo had languished a bit in the efficiency department. That is until the S40 DRIVe debuted in 2009. With carefully massaged aerodynamics and suspension, stop/start engine hardware, an electric steering pump, and a keen 1.6L turbodiesel engine, the most efficient Volvo returns a very respectable 62 MPG on the European combined cycle. Equally as impressive is the low 99g/km CO2 emissions rating. However what makes the S40 DRIVe more compelling than its conventional diesel siblings is outstanding handling — a happy byproduct of the aero and suspension tweaks. Who said efficient cars can’t be fun too?

5. Subaru Boxer Diesel

Loathe to adopt another manufacturer’s conventional diesel engine, Subaru took years to develop an industry-first boxer configuration diesel. Typically pistons are arranged either in a line, or a V shape. Subaru’s pistons lay flat, 180 degrees apart – and punch out, hence the boxer name.

The appeal of the boxer diesel is the efficiency it delivers, while keeping the core Subaru traits of all-wheel-drive security and stability intact. In the Forester for instance, the boxer diesel can get up to 37 MPG highway, while providing enough torque to keep performance on par with the regular gas version. The big hurdle for Subaru has been getting the AdBlue system into their cars while keeping costs down. If you like the idea of a Subaru diesel, click “like” on their fan page on Facebook — maybe fans on social media can help bring these engines over.

6. Mercedes Benz S350 BlueTec

Now for some good news: after a 15-year hiatus, Mercedes is bringing back the S-Class diesel for 2012. Powered by the same engine in the E, GL, ML, and R classes, the S350 BlueTec will be the “entry” model in the luxurious S-Class range. Offered exclusively with Mercedes’ 4-Matic AWD system, the torque-tastic oil burner will roll to 60 in a fleet 7 seconds flat while returning an impressive 31 MPG on the highway. Perhaps the only thing not fantastic about the diesel Benz luxury liner will be its $70,000+ price tag. Nevertheless, diesel S-Class Benzes have been long sought after on the used market by savvy buyers seeking an unrivaled blend of luxury and economy. In a few years time expect the same cult following around this model.

7. Audi A6 TDI

Audi is no stranger to fitting oil burners to its cars. Indeed, in Europe you can get every Audi model bar the R8 supercar with a diesel engine. Yet back in the U.S., Audi’s diesel family is limited to the A3 hatchback and Q7 SUV. In response to vocal customers and dealers, Audi is close to releasing the 2012 A6 with a TDI option. Using a new turbocharged and intercooled V6, the diesel will pair performance with frugality. Expect a 0 to 60 sprint in a Boxster-rivaling 6 seconds, standard Quattro all wheel drive, an 8-speed transmission, and an average fuel economy figure in the high 20s. Whoever said “you can’t have it all” never sampled an Audi diesel.

These are just some of the great diesel models not available to American buyers. Nevertheless, the advantages to diesel are numerous — so make sure to let your favorite car makers know that you’re interested!

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