Inside Line's Joanne Helperin discovered first-hand the
roadblocks to owning a vehicle powered by compressed
natural gas. While acknowledging the
Honda GX's eco-friendly fuel system and tax break, she was less impressed the car's range, added cost and lower horsepower. She also voiced concerns over the reduced cargo capacity, weak sound system (no rear speakers) and lack of options.
On the positive side, the Honda Civic GX is the only sedan certified as a Super-Ultra-Low-Emission Vehicle (SULEV) in all 50 states. There is an abundance of natural gas, and owners can purchase a home-refueling station. Owners also get HOV-lane privelidges.
Helperin concluded that while a $15 fillup is attractive, the long-term costs may not add up to the consumer's favor.
[Source: Inside Line]
