2008 new and redesigned hybrids

Looking for an all-new hybrid in 2008? Here's a brief overview of all the hybrids that have been redesigned or are brand-new models to the market in 2008. Some of the highlights include the redesigned Mercury Mariner and the brand-new Lexus LS 600h.

Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid

2008 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid

New for 2008
List prices: Starting at $22,790

Along with its redesign of the Malibu family, Chevrolet is introducing the Malibu Hybrid in 2008. The Malibu Hybrid features GM's Hybrid Propulsion Electric System that is combined with a 2.4L four-cylinder Hybrid engine.

Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid

2008 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid

New for 2008
List prices: Starting at $49,590

Chevrolet's full-size Tahoe sport utility vehicle will be available with a two-mode hybrid powertrain for 2008. GM says combined fuel economy savings are expected to be 25 percent. Developed jointly by BMW, DaimlerChrysler and GM, the hybrid system can team with both gasoline and diesel engines.

Ford Escape Hybrid

2008 Ford Escape Hybrid

Redesigned for 2008
List prices: $25,265-$27,015

The Ford Escape Hybrid compact SUV receives some styling changes, inside and out, plus a quieter cabin for 2008. The drivetrain remains the same. It looks more like a Ford Explorer now, but with a plunging chrome grille that would be equally at home on a Volkswagen Jetta or Golf. A raised hood and higher beltline may make the SUV look tougher, but they probably don't do much for visibility.

GMC Yukon Hybrid

2008 GMC Yukon Hybrid

New for 2008
List prices: Starting at $50,045

Though gas mileage ratings for GM's new full-size SUVs are impressive among their competitive set, they aren't likely to bring smiles to anyone at the pump; competitors aside, their combined ratings still linger in the teens. That changes with the 2008 Yukon Hybrid, a twin to the upcoming Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid that promises a 25 percent improvement in overall gas mileage.

Lexus LS 600h

2008 Lexus LS 600h

New for 2008
List prices: Starting at $104,000

The 2008 Lexus LS 600h L is the first car to combine a V-8 gasoline engine with an electric motor for improved gas mileage and robust acceleration. The 600h is a hybrid version of the 2007 LS 460L.

With the addition of the LS 600h L, Lexus now refers to the hybrid system in its luxury models as Lexus Hybrid Drive, replacing Hybrid Synergy Drive, which will continue to describe the Toyota version. The LS is the first vehicle in the world to mate an electric drive system to a V-8 engine, in this case a new 5.0-liter. The system as a whole generates "more than 430 hp," according to Lexus. The LS 460's 4.6-liter V-8 puts out 380 hp. The overall effect of the hybrid system compares to the performance of a V-12 engine, Lexus says.

Mazda Tribute Hybrid

2008 Mazda Tribute Hybrid

Redesigned for 2008
List prices: $25,310-$29,570

Just a month or so after its Ford Escape and Escape Hybrid brethren debuted, Mazda has introduced the 2008 Tribute Hybrid. It's gotten some styling tweaks, including a new grille and interior, plus a rear window that now looks more like the Escape's.

Mercury Mariner Hybrid

2008 Mercury Mariner Hybrid

Redesigned for 2008
List prices: $25,955-$27,705

For 2008, Mariner Hybrids share the same exterior and interior redesign as the standard Mariner, but hybrid-specific components have been updated to make the transition between electric and gasoline modes less noticeable. The Mariner Hybrid is now available in front- as well as all-wheel drive.

The 2008 Mariner has a much bolder presence than the outgoing model, as the compact SUV received its first major redesign since its launch as a 2005 model. The 2008 has new, squared-off bodywork, as well as improvements to combat road and engine noise.

Saturn Vue Green Line

2008 Saturn Vue Green Line

Redesigned for 2008
List prices: Starting at $24,795

The 2008 Saturn Vue Green Line features basically the same hybrid system that's in the current Vue, relocated to the redesigned Vue that was introduced last November at the Los Angeles Auto Show. It's a mild hybrid that improves fuel economy by 6 percent to 12 percent.

Unlike most hybrids on the market, the Green Line combines its 2.4-liter four-cylinder and electric motor/generator with a conventional four-speed automatic transmission. Its operation is virtually indistinguishable from a non-hybrid, except that it turns the engine off when the SUV comes to a stop and restarts it when it's time to go — a universal hybrid trait.

As is the norm among hybrid versions of existing models, the Vue Green Line is based on a higher Vue trim level, so it will retail for more than the most expensive nonhybrid trim.

Toyota Highlander Hybrid

2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

Redesigned for 2008
List prices: Starting at $24,795

The second-generation 2008 Highlander Hybrid is larger and more powerful than before, which gives the midsize SUV more breathing room between it and the automaker's recently enlarged RAV4 compact SUV. The two Hybrid models are base and Limited, and both are offered only with all-wheel drive.