Saturn hybrid vs. Ford Escape Hybrid? 

Saturn hybrid vs. Ford Escape Hybrid?

Here comes a hybrid SUV that will give Ford’s highly publicized Escape Hybrid a good old competition – and it comes with more muscles and a smaller sticker.

Saturn has announced that its new 2007 Vue Green Line will be America's lowest-priced hybrid SUV when it arrives in dealerships late this summer -- starting at $22,995, including shipping.

The Vue Green Line boasts impressive EPA fuel economy ratings. City mileage is projected at 27 mpg, with a highway rating of 32 mpg. That compares with 20/28 for the 2006 Vue Red Line with a 3.5-liter V6. The '06 Red Line retails for $24,485.

The Ford Escape Hybrid is powered by a 133-hp 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine and electric motor, and is rated by the EPA at 31/26 mpg. Prices start at $26,215. In comparison, the '07 Vue Green Line mates a 2.4-liter gas engine and an electric motor, with a combined output of 170 horsepower. Standard equipment includes ABS, traction control, 16-inch alloy wheels, chrome skid plates and a rear spoiler.

A second Green Line hybrid model — a gas-electric version of the new Aura midsize sedan — will join the Saturn lineup in spring 2007.

Meanwhile, you can find the best of both Saturn parts and Ford parts at Auto Parts Deal.