Kevin McMurtrie wrote:
>snip
>
> It's interesting that the IMA system is less powerful now. I think it's
> time to stop calling the Accord a hybrid. The electric motor is all
> about stabilizing the engine during mode changes, and providing power to
> the electric A/C. Its effect on the drivetrain is almost nothing in
> such a heavy car.

I agree. If the electric motor can't run the car by itself, it
shouldn't be called a hybrid. Perhaps Honda engineers called it
"assist" but Honda marketing insisted on the hybrid moniker?

Toyota's 2007 Camry hybrid may be a more interesting model and 192 hp
is more than adequate. Price and real-world mpg are still unknows. As
evidence that the hybrid craze has abated, my local Toyota store
(CARMAX) has 4 Prius in stock, two at $22,308 and two at $25,318. None
priced higher. At about $22K the Prius is a pretty attractive deal for
those who use the car in the city and want to send a one-fingered
salute to the oil industry. The Prius works on the highway (my cousin
consistently gets 50+ mpg) for those willing to keep the speed down
(*everyone* passes my cousin).