High Performance Hybrids

The Infiniti M35h is Nissan's first independent dip into the Performance Hybrid pool. The Hybrid drive in the preceding Altima was actually licensed by Toyota. The M35h, on the other hand, is 100 percent Nissan in its conception and manufacture. It features rear-wheel drive and has a 3.5-liter V-6 engine that connects to an electric motor and 7-speed automatic transmission utilizing two automated clutches that alternate the motive force of the vehicle between the Hybrid motor and the gas engine. The total output is 360 HP which outstrips most twin-turbocharged six-cylinders by a respectable percent. The M35h has an overall EPA rating of 27 MPG city and 32 highway. For a car with that much muscle, that is impressive to say the least.

The Volkswagen Touareg Hybrid shares its drivetrain with the Porsche Cayenne S Hybrid. It features a 47 horsepower electric motor and a supercharged 333 HP V6 engine manufactured by Audi. It boasts an output of 380 HP. It also has the added advantage of a 7,700-pound towing capacity which far exceeds the majority of hybrid crossovers in its class. It abandons the CVT for an 8-speed driver-controlled automatic transmission which not only reduces cost but also allows a more robust use of existing power. Probably the most uniue feature of the Toureg Hybrid is a hydraulic clutch that automatically disengages the engine so it can shut down and allow electric power to take over under lighter loads. It then hands off power to the engine when efficiency standards allow. While not its own invention, Wolkswagen has dubbed this process, “sailing” as its own layman's description.

The Porsche Panamera S Hybrid employs the same drivetrain as the Cayenne Hybrid found in the Toureg. It features a 333 HP supercharged V-6 coupled with a 47 HP electric motor and 8-speed automatic transmission with auto stop/start. What makes this model stand out is its ability to cruise at highway speeds solely on electric power making it a performance car that has virtually perfected the balance between fuel efficiency and power in the high-performance arena.

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