2023 CarBuzz Awards: Eco-Friendly Finalists

EVs Not Required to Protect Earth

At CarBuzz, we may be partial to powerful gas-guzzling sports cars that roar to great heights; still, we must appreciate the effect automobiles have on the environment. That being said, every 12 months, our CarBuzz Awards panel acknowledge green performance in our Save The Earth class. This division not just recognizes electric vehicles but even celebrates the fostering of environment-friendly motorcars for beneficial outcomes.

In 2020, a variety of automobiles were selected as potential contenders for the top spot; however, none of them ultimately made the cut. Last year, the F-150 Lightning earned first place, whereas in 2019, the Volkswagen ID.4 was revolutionary in its category. This 2021, the list of candidates comprised vehicles such as the Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid, Honda Accord Hybrid, the Dodge Hornet/Alfa Romeo Tonale, as well as the Genesis Electrified GV70 – but to no avail.

In no particular sequence, these three have emerged as triumphant.

Hyundai is continuing with its electric Ioniq range and the 6 certainly keeps up the pace, after the Ioniq 5 made an impression last year in multiple aspects. The Ioniq 6 now directly contends with the Tesla Model 3, leveraging the same E-GMP platform as its sibling; achieving 235 kW charging capabilities with only an 18 minute reload to 80%, which can go up to a triumphant 361 miles of driving range from a single charge, giving it the longest span than any of the other options in its category corresponding to the EPA. On top of this, the SE RWD Long Range configuration managed to equal the output of the Lucid Air, boasting a 140 MPGe EPA rating.

Beginning at $41,600, the potential of a realistic affordability is there, and with Hyundai’s unique design style, this car emanates an exuberant appearance among the extensive array of formless electric vehicles.

Whilst the Ioniq 6 may offer greater range than the Polestar 2, why exactly is the Swede included here? Despite not having the longest range among its peers, Polestar has gained a strong reputation for eco-efficiency. No other manufacturer can top its commitment to environmental sustainability with the transparent sharing of facts regarding the sustainability objectives they have set and how these are being achieved through the responsible sourcing of materials for their EVs.

While some auto manufacturers make grand assertions concerning cars with no emissions, although these assurances may be untrustworthy, Polestar is publicly proclaiming the carbon exhausts throughout the lifetime of the car and openly abating these figures through sustainable fabrication techniques. A green product is of course excellent, but having honest methods in constructing the product is a different matter altogether.

The performance of the Polestar 2 is remarkable, regardless of whether it would have been if not. Not only is driving it a pleasure, but you also benefit from a robust array of features and all of this at an accessible cost when it comes to electric vehicles.

No one ever imagined that the Toyota Prius would be seen as a desirable model; when the Corolla Hybrid offered the same fuel efficiency scaled with an attractive design, the necessity of the Prius was called into question. Nonetheless, we were forced to admit our mistake after the newest Prius and Prius Prime hybrids were announced by Toyota. Not only do they have a stunning exterior, but still provide optimal savings when using fuel. Plus, the plug-in hybrid Prime has up to 220 horsepower – even better, it drives like a dream.

Formerly, the Prius was derided as the brunt of all hybrid-car critiques. Nevertheless, after experiencing this new automobile, we are not ashamed to divulge that we cherish it.

Which of the three will emerge victorious? In a mere couple of weeks, we will know who has achieved the W.