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Best SUVs of 2007 & 2008: Escape/Tribute/Mariner hybrid, Highlander/RX 400h hybrids, Vue hybrid and Compass

by Hilary on November 28th, 2007

Best SUVs for 2007 & 2008

I thought I’d never be a fan of SUVs, but ooooo, the Highlander Hybrid I test drove yesterday - despite the freezing temperatures - purred awake. It was the most comfortable car I’ve ever driven. Seriously. However, fuel efficiency is down from last year, making the act of walking away MUCH easier.

High 5, Toyota.

A surprising number of changes happened between 2007 and 2008 models. More SUVs hit the market, although some in limited numbers and only in California. More than one popular model was redesigned, though the Escape (and Mariner) got better on gas while the Highlander (and RX 400h) got worse?? Aggravating.

To be fair, I should test drive an Escape to see how they’re doing on comfort. *adds to to-do list*
2007 Models

Ford Escape FWD
4 cylinder, 2.3 L engine, Automatic
31 mpg city/ 29 mpg hwy

Ford Escape Hybrid 4WD*
4 cylinder, 2.3 L engine, Automatic
28 mpg city/ 27 mpg hwy

Mercury Mariner Hybrid 4WD*
4 cylinder, 2.3 L engine, Automatic
28 mpg city/ 27 mpg hwy

Lexus RX 400h 2WD**
6 cylinder, 3.3 L engine, Automatic
28 mpg city/ 25 mpg hwy

Toyota Highlander Hybrid 2WD**
6 cylinder, 3.3 L engine, Automatic
28 mpg city/ 25 mpg hwy

Lexus RX 400h 4WD***
6 cylinder, 3.3 L engine, Automatic
27 mpg city/ 25 mpg hwy

Toyota Highlander Hybrid 4WD***
6 cylinder, 3.3 L engine, Automatic
27 mpg city/ 25 mpg hwy

Saturn Vue Hybrid
4 cylinder, 2.4 L engine, Automatic 4-speed
23 mpg city/ 29 mpg hwy

2008 Models

Ford Escape Hybrid FWD*
4 cylinder, 2.3 L engine, Automatic
34 mpg city/ 30 mpg hwy

Mazda Tribute Hybrid 2WD*
4 cylinder, 2.3 L engine, Automatic
34 mpg city/ 30 mpg hwy

Mercury Mariner Hybrid FWD*
4 cylinder, 2.3 L engine, Automatic
34 mpg city/ 30 mpg hwy

Ford Escape Hybrid 4WD**
4 cylinder, 2.3 L engine, Automatic
29 mgp city/ 27 mpg hwy

Mazda Tribute Hybrid 2WD**
4 cylinder, 2.3 L engine, Automatic
29 mpg city/ 27 mpg hwy

Mercury Mariner Hybrid FWD**
4 cylinder, 2.3 L engine, Automatic
29 mpg city/ 27 mpg hwy

Toyota Highlander Hybrid 4WD
6 cylinder, 3.3 L engine, Automatic
27 mpg city/ 25 mpg hwy

Lexus RX 400h 4WD
6 cylinder, 3.3 L engine, Automatic
27 mpg city/ 24 mpg hwy

Jeep Compass 2WD
4 cylinder, 2 L engine, Automatic
23 mpg city/ 27 mpg hwy

*,**,*** same gas mileage stats

**** I know it’s frustrating, but I don’t consider manual transmissions because they aren’t usually on the lots. The purpose is to help you control or at least guide impulse purchases. Stats from FuelEconomy.gov

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