Would you buy a Hybrid vehicle?
October 27, 2009 by By email
Filed under Hybrid Vehicles
I am thinking of buying a hybrid suv but they seem to be a lot more expensive than a regular vehicle.
Sure, a hybrid can save me forking out for so much gas, but is the money I will save worth the high purchase price?
Depending on what vehicles you’re comparing, it could take you anywhere from about 50,000 to 250,000 miles for the cost of fuel to make up for the increased purchase price, running at EPA numbers. Many hybrid owners do much better than that, though.
With your SUV, though, it could be a bit higher. The larger hybrids tend to be geared more for performance with a slight fuel economy boost over base models (but comparable power to a larger engine). This reduces the fuel economy difference by quite a bit, but makes the price comparison closer. Whether it’s really worth it depends on WHAT hybrid SUV you’re getting.
Generally, though, unless you’re keeping the vehicle for a long time…like 5 years or more, it won’t be worth it to buy a new hybrid. That shouldn’t be too big a concern. Honda and Toyota hybrids have proven to be even more reliable than their regular vehicles. The only issue is the battery, and even then, when the battery is nearing the end, or not working, cars like the Insight remain very efficient. (This probably woudln’t be the case with your SUV)
There’s more to it than fuel economy, though. Hybrids have completely different driving dynamics. They have instant low-end torque. If that appeals to you, go for it. Test drive both, though, to make sure it’s really what you want.
Edit: Insight owners have been having their batteries start going at around 150,000 miles. Part of the replacement cost (which may not be strictly neccesary, since batteries don’t just STOP working, the performance degrades over time) will be made up by the decreased wear and tear on the engine.
some studies have compared the cost of buying a hybrid which is much higher than a regular compact and found that you dont save any money because you have paid more for the car even though you are paying less for gas. I got to have power, Im not ready for a hybrid.
You need to calculate how long it will take you to make up the premium you will pay for the Hybrid.
Remember a Hybrid typically is slightly smaller that the normal gasoline only vehicle as it will have to make room for the battery pack also.
Your vehicle is also now a specialized vehicle. Make sure whereever you are, you can get a mechanic to work on it. Many mechanics won’t work on Hybrid vehicles due to their high voltage. So ensure you can get it fixed if it does break down, and be prepared to pay a premium for that service.
I would consider a Hybrid vehicle, but there’s a lot of things to weigh beyond just the additional cost you will pay for it.