I am planning to buy a hybrid car. Is it a wise choice?

Answer 1

I'll start by backing up one of the other posts in that depending on how you drive determines whether or not the current crop of hybrids will be benifical to you and the enviroment. Please keep in mind that a hybrid, because of the batteries, has more dead wieght to move than a normal gasoline powered car. Thus, you do use more gas to get the same performance from the stop, moving up hills, and carring/towing any loads. So, unless you are traveling alot on Highways, at speed, the electric motor does not engage until you have reached a cruising speed. There are alot, and I mean alot of new intovations coming down the pike in the next several years. More powerful hybrids, very clean diesels, better performing (MPG) gasoline, and different fuels. The Auto Industry has figured out that there is "GREEN in Being Green". So, my advice is to sit down and make a list of the importance between performance and MPG. Plus, figure out how many miles you travel stop and go in the city and how many on the Highway. Also, look at any special requirements you may have or will have in your ownership of this vehicle (towing, 4 x4, ect.) that directly effects the performance and MPG in the above question. Also, do a search on not just alternative fuels, but look at the diesel option. There are very big changes coming in this sector and in 2007 model year, several manufactures are starting to offer them in current models. 2008 and 2009 will see a large infusion of diesel into the U.S. market. Why such an intrest in diesel, well with the Federal Goverment finally requiring a higher standard of diesel fuel to be used in the U.S., we Americans finally catch up to the rest of the world. Over 50% of the vehicles sold in Europe last year were diesels. But, don't take my word please search all the information before you buy.

Answer 2

It's a great choice.

The next thing is determining which is the best for you. Overall the Toyota Prius is one of the best (if not THE best) hybrid available. It achieves 60 miles per gallon in the city and the hatchback design is very functional. According to the EPA, it has an average annual fuel cost of $784. Compare that with a Honda Civic (non-hybrid) at just under $1300 a year in fuel costs. You're saving over $500 a year on gas by driving the Prius. And if prices go up you'll save even more.

Hybrids are a great solution right now to save fuel and reduce emissions. Every time I see a gas guzzling SUV I look at the owner and laugh - they probably think I am looking at them in envy.......but why would someone be envious of 12 miles per gallon?

Answer 3

It depends on your reason for buying it. If you want to save money on gas, look at the cost difference between what you will spend on the hybrid vs. a regular model and see how long it will take to recover that money on gasoline. If you plant to own the car longer than that time frame, go ahead. But you may also want to consider that it is still a relatively new technology and the long term performance of the hybrids has not been established. There are questions about the batteries used in the hybrids and how long they will last and what they will cost to replace, dispose of, etc.

If you are simply concerned about the air quality and want to reduce your emissions, then by all means buy one for your peace of mind.

Answer 4

From a financial standpoint it's only a good deal if:
a) you plan on keeping it at least 60-80,000 miles
b) you do alot of city/suburban driving, where hybrids work better

Otherwise, you are better off getting a fuel efficient gas engine car that will give great mileage (Honda Civic EX or Accord EX with 4 cyl engine). I personally think Toyotas (like Prius) are too expensive and they don't handle very well.

Answer 5

In two years, all cars with be able to run on Aqugyen gas. This has been a recent MAJOR breakthrough that currently is being embraced by GM Auto, Lockhead Martin, and The State of Kentucky. So, personally I wouldn't get an expensive hybrid yet.

Answer 6

The Toyota Hybrid is same price as standart engine.
Its big anough, got 110 horsepower, its a fine mid class car.
I dont see them often o nthe steets, because people are still not to sure.
Like always, with new technologie.
In future, with those oil prices going up so fast, its sure the way to go in near future.
I am waiting for the Hydro Technologie, which is barely developt, and will come after Hybrid.
Imagine your car, running on water !

Answer 7

actually if you take the difference between the costs of a hybrid and a regular fuel efficeint car, and factor in the small difference in mileage, the hybrid is actually more $$ over a 5 year period. So it will take you 5 years until you start to see the rewards of your purchase.

Answer 8

Honest? Not yet. The government only gives you (I'm guessing here) $1500 rebates to "encourage" you to buy a hybrid, but the cars cost more than that in comparison to regular gasoline vehicles...PLUS they only give you that rebate ONCE, not every year!

Even buying a used one, you don't get the rebate then either. Once government stops listening to the big oil companies and gets serious about alternate fuel vehicles, then it'll be time to take a look at them.

Answer 9

no, hybrids on average cost $5000-6000 more than the regular cars. Plus, the batteries for a hybird costs a lot. Unless you drive a LOT in traffic, you don't really need a hybrid. But, if you are a tree hugger, and you don't mind the extra costs, get one.

Answer 10

I seen a Toyota hybrid at a car sales the other day and the paint job was terrible, My partner related it to orange peel, so make sure the paint job is good.