What is the best Hybrid SUV under 30000 and why?

Question

Take into account MPG!

Answer 1

Mercury Mariner.

Nice design, price is around $28000, fuel economy is 34city/30highway.

Answer 2

The Ford Escape Hybrid / Mercury Mariner Hybrid / Mazda Tribute Hybrid family.  (All three are the same chassis, with different trims).

Best MPG of all SUVs.  32mpg combined city/highway for the FWD version, 30mpg combined for the 4WD.

Uses a single-gearset Power Split Device transmission (similar to the one in the Toyota Prius), very tough and durable.  New York City has been using the Escape Hybrid as taxi cabs since 2004, and they have been able to withstand the worst kind of daily abuse from cab drivers without any major problems.

Right now the FWD Ford Escape Hybrid (and its Mercury and Mazda rebadges) qualifies for a $3000 Federal Tax Credit, $2200 for the 4WD version.  (The tax credit only applies if it's a new car purchased from a dealer.)

The only problem?  You will not be able to find one.  The waiting list is 6 months long because it's in such high demand.

Answer 3

Toyota Prius because with all the standard options for the money it is SWEET.

Answer 4

I am really liking the new 2008 Ford SUVs!

http://www.hybrid-automobiles.info/SUVs....