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by the time I was crossing the San Mateo bridge late in the afternoon, I was a convert. Ford engineers had clearly refined and improved this second generation hybrid, especially its fuel economy. As the gray-green waters of San Francisco Bay swept beneath me, the fuel economy was showing 36.1 mpg and I was rolling along at better than 60 mph.
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In addition to tweaking the aerodynamics of the 2008 model, Ford also found little ways to lighten the base vehicle while adding features not found on the 2005; the end result being a vehicle that weights essentially the same as the original model. (3638 vs. 3627lbs/1650 vs.1645kg, 2008/2005 FWD respectively.) Added to the '08 is a dual zone climate control system, along with improving the hybrid mode air conditioning system. Steering and handling have been improved, as well, Marakby noted. Additional sound deadening material was also added to reduce interior road noise.
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