Overhaulin'

Would you buy a hybrid car?

If you haven't bought one, why not?

Public Comments

1. I would, but they are so damn expensive!!!!!!!!
2. i have not bought one yet b/c they are pricey and i'm told by my mechanic that once the warranty expires, replacement, upkeep and maintenance is VERY cost prohibitive. for example, the battery alone is 10 K and up.
3. You "can" get better gas mileage and you can ride in HOV lanes in some states without a passenger. Also "can" means some hybrids don't get better mileage, some of it is hype so the person can feel better. Don't have one cause I don't need a new car.
4. Not me. I have not owned a car since 1988. I use bicycles and public transportation.
5. i just bought a civic and i was thinking of getting it in hybrid but i decided not to. the non-hybrid gets almost as much gas to the gallon and they say that it would take over 20 years in order to break even from the money you save from the gas just because you have to pay 10,000 more on hybrid cars. plus its still relatively new technology... i would wait to get a hybrid until it develops more
6. Probably not. The fuel economy is overrated & you can likely do as well with a small compact that sells for much less. Also... if you plan on keeping it long term, I drive my cars for 8-9 years, ask a dealer about the battery life & replacement cost -- scarey.
7. I have been contemplating it. I want a small car, so for me, it's either the Toyota Prius, or the Honda Civic. I will not wait in line for a car, that's ridiculous, and that's apparently the case with the Prius, plus I don't like its look. The Civic does not come with leather furniture, which I would like. Also, it seems that hybrid cars will need specially trained technicians. So I'm still debating it...
8. not when i can get 40 mpg with mine
9. I LOVE my hybrid Prius, and wouldn't trade it for any car in the world!!!! I am currently getting 52MPG WITH the airconditioner on, and driving a combo of hwy and in town. Highway only, I get 56, and in town I can get 85mpg. There are no gears to wear out, and the engine has less wear since it turns off when not in use. It ends up that you get twice the year's service out of these cars. This is my second, and I have to say that they are VERY safe. My first one (a 2000) was destroyed in a freak 55mph rollover accident (rolled twice in a drainage ditch). I WALKED away. The paramedics were amazed! I know friends that have bought the Honda Hybrids and aren't as happy. As for Prius owners, well, we have our own user group (check it out on Yahoo).
10. Hybirds Carry a premium over a comparable gasoline engine. Negating any benefit in fuel mpg gained. Hybrids have many more batteries made of precious metals lead and nickel not to mention acid, adding weight to the vehicle and creating serious disposal, ( hazardous materials) repair and replacement issues. Hybrids Don’t get anywhere near the EPA estimates in mileage.
11. yea
12. yes
13. I wouldn't because financially the make no sense. Plus, with all the computerization in them, I am dubious as to their ultimate reliability. And lastly, with that many batteries that have to be replaced every so often, they certainly are not the environmental saviors people make them out to be. In short, Diesels are a far, FAR better alternative to hybrids, if only they were sold here. Hybrids are just a fad propogated by people who don't want to look past the gas mileage numbers on the window sticker. There is one compelling reason to buy one, however. Their gas mileage can mean more energy independance for the US. While that's something that diesels can accomplish too, they aren't readily available here. As to those who say that gas mileage isn't anywhere near what the EPA rates them for - that all depends on how you drive it. Driving style is the biggest determinant in what your gas mileage can be.
14. No replacement batteys cost to much.
15. Just saving up for a Lexus GS450h hybrid - 339hp, 0-60mph in 5.2 seconds. Give it time. In 10 years hybrids will be outselling conventional vehicles.