Thoughts, concerns, opinions problems. I’m thinking about one in the future as a second car. I have long commute and need something reliable and fuel efficient. Let me know what you think, or if you think there is a better alternative.
A hybrid does better if you have a commute where you stop and start a lot. If you’re just cruising down the highway, the mileage gain isn’t as big as you would think.
The Toyota Prius has a lot more cargo room (the rear seats fold down), gets better milage (I’ve seen49 on the interstate) and has lower emissions.
Do you need any room? If not there’s the Honda Insight - 2 seats and very little cargo room. (But great milage)
Brian
Hybrids are priced at a premium due to demand; I’ve heard about $3K more than the gas-only versions, and still require battery replacements for big bux at regular intervals. If you’re making a strictly economic decision, think hard about how long it will take to pay off with reduced fuel costs. Think hard too about the maturity and reliability of the technology at this point.
I might do it eventually, but not for a few more years.