You are concerned about the environment enough to consider purchasing and driving a Hybrid car. But what Hybrid should you purchase? You are already aware of the tax credit benefits of owning a hybrid cars. You are aware of the gas saving potential of driving a hybrid. However, you may not be aware of the high repair cost of a hybrid car.
You made the right decision to do a little research before making your choices. Here is the Car and Driver Magazine had to say about the top vehicles:
Honda Accord Hybrid
The Accord was the first to exploit the double potential of hybrid technology: reduced fuel consumption combined with improved performance. Honda hybrids are engagingly simple and effective, making this the thriftiest of Accords, as well as the quickest Accord automatic. Highs: Added power, improved mpg, V-6 cylinder deactivation, dual air-conditioning system. Lows: Miniature hybrid operating gauges, electric motor assist limited by batteries, shrunken trunk, hybrid price premium.
Honda Civic Hybrid
This isn’t as overtly hybrid as its competition from Toyota, but its gasoline-electric system is simpler, which means fewer things to go wrong. Now in its second generation, the hybrid Civic is more powerful than the first edition and also more fuel efficient. Highs: Rakish new exterior styling, high quality fit and finish, elegantly simple hybrid system, more performance and mpg. Lows: This hybrid is better than its predecessor, but its fun factor lies not in driving but in monitoring mpg.
Toyota Prius Hybrid
The Prius has been a huge success for Toyota. It appeals both to environmentalists and people who are concerned with fuel economy. While it gets gas mileage comparable with that of a subcompact, it has the interior capacity of a mid-size car. Plus, it also has a unique look. Highs: Superb gas mileage, especially in the city; futuristic styling; space-efficient interior. Lows: Costs a lot more than many smaller cars that give comparable highway mileage; boring to drive. It also has mediocre dynamics, with slow, numb steering and hard-to-modulate brakes. Its skinny tires are a letdown.
Toyota Camry
If you want to be green but don’t want to announce it to other road users, the Camry hybrid is the perfect car for you. It uses the same system of a gas engine and electric motors as the Prius. Gas mileage is improved over a four-cylinder Camry, but it costs MUCH more. Highs: Terrific gas mileage; smooth, seamless power between electric motors and gas engine; excellent interior craftsmanship. Lows: Significant price premium over the non-hybrid Camry; not exciting to drive.
Ford Escape
The additional electric motors and batteries of the hybrid Escape and Mariner do not degrade the vehicles’ basically terrific packaging. In our hands, a hybrid Escape delivered a respectable 25 mpg, but it’ll take years to save enough gas to pay the $3000 premium over the gas version. Highs: Very good fuel economy for an SUV. Useful and roomy interior. Lows: Slow, turtle-like acceleration thanks to heavy curb weight. It’s big, and carries an extra $3000 Hybrid charge.
Making your decision on a Hybrid is a natural concerned choice. Now go Green and pick your options.
Hybrid Cars
