Whether you care about the environment or simply wish to save money on fuel, the 2018 lineup of green vehicles is sure to impress you. They are built with the latest developments in automotive technology, while still taking into consideration their carbon footprint. Let’s check out the best new hybrid and electric cars on the market today.
2018 Nissan Leaf
Already among the most popular electric cars in the world, the 2018 Nissan Leaf benefits from a complete redesign. A long list of improvements will help it to remain a popular choice. While an extended driving range of 150 miles enables you to travel further between each charge, the arrival of new safety innovations transforms the Leaf into a more secure commuter car. Sportier styling takes the Leaf’s appeal to the next level.
Every driver can look forward to experiencing the 2018 Nissan’s Leaf’s improved performance. Its electric motor makes a healthy 147 horsepower, which is significantly more muscle than before. When accelerating from a stop, the Leaf’s surplus of torque will enable you to get going in a hurry.
While driving the new Leaf, you will be surrounded by a number of modern features. The digital gauge cluster provides all the vital information necessary, including the battery’s real-time energy consumption. A new infotainment system and a powerful Bose sound system further enhance your driving experience. For 2018, Nissan introduces a cutting-edge ProPILOT Assist system. It combines technologies such as lane-keep assist and automatic braking to help you remain safe.
2018 Hyundai Ioniq
The new Hyundai Ioniq is already being mentioned as one of the the top hybrids on the market. A crisp, modern exterior gives the Ioniq a big advantage over the top-selling Toyota Prius. Most importantly, this eco-friendly hatchback is rated high for class-leading gas mileage.
The combination of a four-cylinder engine and a small electric motor enables the Ioniq to get a satisfying 139 horsepower. Regenerative braking technology helps replenish the car’s battery pack while you drive. A 58mpg fuel economy rating makes the Ioniq more efficient than any other hybrid in its class. Fortunately, the Ioniq’s fuel saving design doesn’t take away from its inspiring performance on the road. As soon as you encounter a sharp curve, you will immediately appreciate the Ioniq’s balanced suspension system, which lets you feel the road comfortably.
All trims come loaded with modern technology. Featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the standard infotainment system can be easily connected to your smartphone. Some of the other notable standard equipment include a backup camera, a multi-function driver display, and keyless ignition. A more advanced gauge cluster is found on the higher trim levels.
Test drivers give the Ioniq high marks for its well-engineered safety technologies. Like the automatic emergency braking system that’s included, the active lane control feature does a great job of detecting other vehicles. Visibility at night is enhanced by the optional swiveling headlights.
2018 Lexus GS 450h
From the standpoint of passenger comfort, the 2018 Lexus GS 450h outshines many of today’s other hybrid luxury sedans. It is an ideal choice if you demand a top-notch level of craftsmanship in your vehicle. An excellent track record of reliability makes the Lexus GS 450h even harder to beat.
The sedan’s hybrid power source delivers an incredibly smooth and responsive performance. With a total of 338 horsepower on tap, you will be able to enjoy especially strong acceleration. It recorded an impressive 0-60 time of 5.6 seconds. The EPA estimates the GS 450h’s fuel economy at 29 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. Aside from the GS 450h’s surplus of power and admirable fuel savings, it also handles extraordinarily well for a family-sized sedan. If you crave more athleticism, opt for the F Sport performance package. It comes equipped with upgrades such as an adaptive suspension and a sports-tuned steering system.
As expected, the 2018 Lexus GS 450h packs plenty of high-tech goodies. A 12.3-inch infotainment screen gives the cabin a very luxurious feel. Although an upgraded audio system is available, most drivers will enjoy the standard 12-speaker system. Some of the other standard items include a backup camera, built-in navigation, and Siri Eyes Free. To promote a more secure driving experience, a Lexus Safety System+ is included on every trim. This advanced safety package consists of driving aids like pedestrian detection and automatic emergency braking.
2018 Chevrolet Volt
The 2018 Chevrolet Volt certainly deserves some consideration when searching for a green car. Sleek exterior styling and modern features make it a trendy choice. Of course, the Volt’s strong point remains its efficiency. When activated, the plug-in hybrid’s electric mode enables you to travel up to 53 miles without burning any fuel. An energy efficiency of 106 MPGe also puts the Volt among the top green vehicles on the market.
Backed by twin electric motors, the Volt’s four-cylinder engine is able to produce a commendable 149 horsepower. Impressive low-end torque enables the Volt to feel very responsive in real-world driving conditions. A quick 0-60 time of 7.5 seconds gives the Volt an extra fun factor. The Volt is also an easy vehicle to drive. A communicative steering system helps you feel in complete control on the road.
The base model comes loaded with a lot of equipment. The standard digital gauge cluster can be configured in a variety of different ways. Meanwhile, a 4G Wi-Fi hot spot ensures a strong connection to the web no matter where you are. For 2018, Chevy has also updated the base Volt with a more powerful sound system. Available as an option, the Driver Confidence package provides helpful driving aids like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
2018 Audi A3 Sportback e-tron
The 2018 Audi A3 Sportback is the perfect hybrid if you crave an above-average level of luxury. Top-notch safety features make the A3 Sportback e-tron even more fulfilling. While the standard model has a refined appearance, the optional Sport package gives the hatchback an especially powerful look. When it comes to fuel economy, an 83 MPGe rating allows the A3 Sportback e-tron to breeze past gas stations.
Audi tuned the A3 Sportback e-tron’s hybrid engine to develop a stout 204 horsepower. Expect to be surprised by the car’s impressive performance capabilities. It can sprint to 60 mph in around 6.9 seconds, which is far quicker than most competitors. Combine this with the A3’s smooth handling and you’ll find driving is a breeze.
There is no overlooking the A3 Sportback’s high-quality cabin. Well-designed seats help you to remain comfortable throughout the day. Standard features include a panoramic sunroof, a 10-speaker sound system, and a backup camera. Every trim in the lineup comes equipped with automatic braking technology. If you demand Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, step up to the Premium Plus trim. Audi also provides a stunning Virtual Cockpit gauge cluster, which displays high-resolution graphics.
Mariordo / Own Work
