An ideal solution – depending on your needs
Let’s make a comparison, shall we?
The Mitsubishi i-MiEV doesn’t burn a single drop of fuel, doesn’t produce any CO2 and is almost 2.5 times cheaper than our Cayenne, but it can’t accommodate two kids, $300 worth of groceries and Costco-size anything in one go.
Plus it takes quite a while to fully recharge the i-MiEV (as much as 22.5 hours), and its range is limited to 160 km in ideal driving conditions. That may be fine for some people, but not for everyone. It’s the same thing with our SUV.
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| Photo: Auto123.com |
We travelled all 600 kilometres of the rally without a hitch, and without having to refuel once. The little Mitsubishi, however, had to be recharged often and couldn’t take part in half of the events because the roads were strewn not with potholes, but pot-craters and looked like a war zone sometimes.
In the end, the i-MiEVs went back to Mitsubishi on a flatbed truck, while we happily drove home to our families without ever once worrying if we’d get there or not.
It should be noted, though, that the Japanese automaker took the risk of competing in the rally knowing full well that would happen. Credit where credit is due. They deserve our respect just for having participated. Meanwhile, on the starting grid, one player was notably absent. Where was the Nissan LEAF, who is mercilessly leading the charge against the Chevy Volt in North America?
Undeniable advantages
So, we learned this weekend that some hybrid SUVs -- like our trusty Porsche Cayenne -- are not just another marketing ploy. Far from it.
Depending on the sophistication of their technology and your driving habits, they can prove extremely efficient and are a top alternative for drivers who need a spacious vehicle but who are also looking to reduce their footprint on our beautiful planet, all while saving quite a bit of money at the pumps at the same time.
Beyond the whole competitive thing, the rally allowed us to break down the prejudices that some people have held for too long against SUVs.
If this account hasn’t convinced you, we dare you to go try one out and give it the chance it deserves.