NYC approved all 6/7 hybrids for taxi use (prius, highlander, rx400h, civic, accord, escape/mariner).
The current stretch crown vics get about 9-10mpg (5-6 during the summer with the AC blasting) vs the EPA 18mpg.

1. what mpg, approximately, do hybrids get in extreme city driving (averaging 6-7mph) with the A/C on max. (with the hybrid on the least conservative setting)
2. do 2-3 adults fit in the back somewhat comfortably?
3. can they withstand stop & go driving carrying 3-4 people (i know nothing about CVT's strength)
4. are hybrids readily available and do they go for sticker price (ford will end crown vic production, and there are over 10,000 of them as NYC cabs at the moment)

thanks in advance, AL