(Aug 04, 2008)
Laura K. Cucullu
Features editor
Measuring the "greenness" of tech can be a little tricky. I mean, it's not like the owner's manuals tell you the carbon footprint or anything like that. But there are some things we can measure, like fuel efficiency and energy conservation. Here are the top green tech products we've reviewed recently.
2008 Lexus LS 600h
The 2008 Lexus LS 600h is a classy car with all the tech you could ask for, both under the hood and in the cabin. Its hybrid system gives it a better environmental pedigree than its luxury class competitors, and its driving performance is very good.
Price: $104,000.00 (check prices)
Review date: Jun 15, 2007
Spectacular
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2008 Mercury Mariner Hybrid
The 2008 Mercury Mariner Hybrid has the practical configuration of a small SUV, along with the low emissions and good fuel economy of a hybrid. Its cabin electronics are up-to-date, although not extraordinary.
Price: $26,955.00 (check prices)
Review date: May 16, 2007
Very good
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2007 Toyota Camry Hybrid
Easy on the eyes and the pocketbook, user- as well as ecofriendly, the Toyota Camry Hybrid is a fitting front-runner in the new generation of hybrid sedans.
Price: $26,200.00 (check prices)
Review date: May 30, 2006
Outstanding
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2007 Nissan Altima Hybrid
The 2007 Nissan Altima Hybrid is a stylish newcomer to the hybrid sedan market. It delivers a good balance between performance and economy, with some very swish cabin electronics, although these options will push the base price way up.
Price: $24,990.00 (check prices)
Review date: Jun 20, 2007
Excellent
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2007 Honda Civic Hybrid
Honda's reputation for practical economy is shown in the Civic Hybrid, well-built and simply designed to sip fuel. Interior tech options are usefully done, making this Honda a great commuter sedan.
Price: $24,350.00 (check prices)
Review date: Apr 16, 2007
Very good
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2007 Ford Escape Hybrid
With this hybrid's price falling, it becomes a solid proposition in an all-around city driver. Sized well and easy to drive, the Escape Hybrid is a useful, advanced vehicle let down a bit by its amenities. Prospective buyers might want to wait for the next model year, which should see an overall upgrade.
Price: $25,655.00 (check prices)
Review date: Oct 9, 2006
Good
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2005 Toyota Prius
Thanks to a seamless and sophisticated power system, the 2005 Toyota Prius delivers excellent gas mileage and comfort, making it the best hybrid on the road today.
Price: $21,815.00 (check prices)
Review date: May 12, 2005
Very good
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Philips 42PFL5603D
Although it has its share of picture-quality problems, the Eco-friendliness of Philips' 42PFL5603D flat-panel LCD will win the day for consumption-conscious shoppers.
Price: $799.99 - $1,249.99 (check prices)
Review date: May 30, 2008
Good
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Panasonic Viera TH-50PZ800U
With the accuracy of its THX mode and great black-level performance, the Panasonic TH-50PZ800U is one of the best-performing HDTVs available.
Price: $1,799.00 - $2,499.99 (check prices)
Review date: May 23, 2008
Excellent
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Samsung HL-T5687S
Although we couldn't quite ignore its uneven screen uniformity, the Samsung HL-T5687S still makes a compelling alternative to flat-screen wallet-busters at this size.
Price: $1,497.00 (check prices)
Review date: Jul 19, 2007
Very good
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Sony Bravia KDL-32M4000
While it's blessed with attractive looks and a solid picture, the higher price of Sony's KDL-32M4000 will turn off many 32-inch LCD comparison shoppers.
Price: $598.72 - $849.99 (check prices)
Review date: May 14, 2008
Very good
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Samsung LN52A650
If you don't mind its red frame, the Samsung LN52A650 LCD TV will reward you with a massive feature set and excellent picture quality.
Price: $1,699.95 - $2,699.99 (check prices)
Review date: Apr 29, 2008
Excellent
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