The Lincoln MKZ hybrid and gas-only cars aell for the same price, a rare treat for drivers. 08/10/2011
As the age of 'going green' continues forward, more and more automakers are producing hybrid versions of their vehicles. Hybrid cars reduce emissions and lower gas costs, but choosing a hybrid version of a new car can negate the savings drivers will find at the pump.
Many gas/electric versions of new cars can cost thousands more than their gas-only counterparts, which automakers claim is due to the added expense and complexity of hybrid-drive systems, The New York Times reports. For instance, the Ford Fusion Hybrid has an $8,750 price jump from the base model, and the Toyota Camry Hybrid is roughly $7,000 more than the gas-powered Camry.
However, not all environmentally friendly cars are going to put a strain on your finances, at least no more than their gasoline-engine equivalents. The Lincoln MKZ has a base price of $34,645 - regardless of whether it is the gas-powered version or the hybrid.
"We priced the MKZ Hybrid the same as the V6 gas version to deliver a great model message, help our customers really make an informed luxury choice," Lincoln spokesman Christian Bokich told The New York Times.
The gasoline MKZ is equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that generates 263 horsepower, while the hybrid version has a smaller and less powerful 2.5-liter engine with a 40-kilowatt electric motor that enables the new car to generate 191 horsepower.
Both vehicles come standard with front wheel drive and rear electronic parking aids that use ultrasonic sensors to ensure that you won't kiss another car's bumper when you're trying to squeeze into that barely-big enough parking space.