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SUV free associations: the weekend warrior, looking cool, four-wheeling, mud flying in the air, hold-on tight adventure, and, soccer momming (on the weekdays).

But, oh, the SUV guilt. Hybrids can help. They improve our environment, increase our country's independence and lower our expenses.

In 2007, Ford, Mercury, Toyota, Saturn and Lexus gave it their SUV best. Per fueleconomy.gov, their greenhouse gas emissions were 12% to 44% lower than their gasoline counterparts. They also qualify as SULEVs (90% cleaner than the average new car).

They have become quite popular. Here's edmunds.com's rankings of Best-Selling Hybrids: Toyota Highlander (2nd), Lexus RX400h (4th), Ford Escape (5th) and Mercury Mariner (8th).

They have good gas mileage. Per fueleconomy.gov, they provide a combined mileage around 30 MPG, with Ford peaking out at 34 MPG.

They can carry 5 people and as a hybrid first, Highlander holds 7.

They are about the same size, so horsepower counts when you have the need for speed.

Everything else varies greatly...

Ford Escape

J.D. Power Rating: 2/ 5
Horsepower: 94HP - 200HP
MSRP: $19,320 - $27,260

The Escape was the first full-hybrid SUV. It has smooth handling, and good cabin and cargo room. It also has a 110 Volt outlet! It's a practical vehicle, and while it has low A/C, poor interior and unexciting style, it's still the best value with a low price and high mileage. It scores high marks in crash testing with improvement needed for the frontal offset test.

Mercury Mariner

J.D. Power Rating : 2/ 5
Horsepower: 153HP - 200HP
MSRP: $21,140 - $27,950

It shares Escape's basic design and crash testing results. Although it offers an upscale quieter ride, luxurious cabin and stylish exterior, it hasn't been as successful. Standard amenities include cruise control, keyless entry, fog lights and power windows, mirrors and locks.

Toyota Highlander

J.D. Power Rating: 2.5/ 5
Horsepower: 155HP - 268HP
MSRP: $24,880 - $36,550

It's easy to drive and uses the same Hybrid Synergy Drive engine system as the Lexus RX400h. The standard model is equipped with comfortable amenities that accommodate the family SUV needs quite well, but, some think it has uninspired styling and interior design. The gasoline version scores high marks in crash testing.

Saturn VUE Green Line

J.D. Power Rating: 3/ 5
Horsepower: 143HP - 250HP
MSRP: $17,475 - $23,710

It's an economical and practical SUV that's light on the pocketbook. It can shut off its gas engine at a stoplight and then quickly restart when needed. It scores high marks in crash testing.

Lexus RX400h

J.D. Power Rating : 4.5/ 5
Horsepower: 268HP - 270HP
MSRP: $41,180 - $42,580

It was the first luxury hybrid SUV. Standard equipment includes dual-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery, a moonroof, a navigation system, rear backup camera and adaptive xenon headlamps. The gasoline version scores high marks in crash testing with some improvement needed for the front passenger seat.

Hybrids are worth taking a chance on, but, please be wary and do your research first.

Learn more about this author, Jeff Parsons.
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