German SUV Hybrids

For the 2011 model year, there are three newVolkswagen Touareg, Porsche Cayenne, and Audi Q7,
sport-utility vehicle ("SUV") hybrid models being offeredreally takes this engine type to a whole new
by German manufacturers. They are the Audi Q7performance level. A 47 horsepower electric engine is
hybrid, Porsche Cayenne S hybrid, and Volkswagenmated to a supercharged 333 horsepower
Touareg hybrid. BMW currently offers a hybrid in itssupercharged V-6 engine, which is also offered in the
sleek X6 SUV model and Mercedes-Benz now offershigh performance Audi S4. The engine produces a
one in its ML450 SUV model.whopping 427 pound-feet of torque but should get
German automakers have not moved as quickly tocombined mileage of about 30 miles per gallon.
introduce hybrids into the U.S. market as theirThe ability to offer both diesel and hybrid engines will
Japanese and American counterparts, but now appearhelp European auto manufacturers to meet stringent
to be making up for lost time. Just a few years ago,2016 U.S. fuel standards. By offering both engine types,
German automakers scoffed at the idea of hybridthese manufacturers can attract more potential buyers
engines, preferring diesels. However, the hybrid'swhile offering more fuel-efficient engines. German auto
success in the U.S. has compelled Germanmanufacturers are also working to develop
manufacturers to compete and they have workeddiesel-electric hybrid engines for even better fuel
quickly to release new hybrid engines.economy.
The new hybrid engine offered in the 2011