Hybrid and Diesel SUV Roundup

(Enlarge photo) The 3.3-liter V6 engine has been recalibrated for duty in the Lexus RX 400h and Toyota Highlander Hybrid. It now makes 208 hp and 212 lb-ft of torque but gets help from three electric motor/generators. (Photo courtesy of Lexus)	(Enlarge photo) The front transaxle of the hybrid SUVs incorporates two electric motor/generators. The larger of the two provides propulsion, while the smaller motor starts the gas engine and keeps it at the proper rpm for any given situation. (Photo courtesy of Lexus)
(Enlarge photo) Although called a continuously variable transmission (CVT), this planetary gear set is not a transmission in the traditional sense. It doesn't shift and there's not even a belt as on other CVTs. It does, however, allow the gas engine to work with two electric motors in a seamless fashion. (Photo courtesy of Lexus)	(Enlarge photo) The 288-volt nickel-metal hydride battery pack lives under the second-row seat of each hybrid SUV. For those concerned about battery disposal down the road, Toyota has a recycling program that pays dealerships a $200 bounty for each returned battery. Every part of the battery can be recycled, according to Toyota. (Photo courtesy of Lexus)
(Enlarge photo) The 2.8-liter diesel four-cylinder in the Liberty uses a relatively high compression ratio and a turbocharger to produce 295 lb-ft of torque at just 1,800 rpm. (Photo courtesy of DaimlerChrysler AG)