I don’t drive much, maybe 10,000 miles a year. It seems like it would take a really long time to make back the extra money spent on a hybrid. Any ideas?
When I worked it out for my family, the hybrid didn’t make sense. It would take around 7 years to break even.
James said:
When I worked it out for my family, the hybrid didn’t make sense. It would take around 7 years to break even.
For us, the hybrid was only $2,500 more. With the type of driving we do, it would only take about 3 years to recover that cost.
@BRANDON
It really depends on what gas prices are like where you live.
Lucypiper said:
@BRANDON
It really depends on what gas prices are like where you live.
I’m in the Chicagoland area, so gas prices here are usually among the highest.
Lucypiper said:
@BRANDON
It really depends on what gas prices are like where you live.
I’m in the Chicagoland area, so gas prices here are usually among the highest.
Around here, Costco in the suburbs usually has gas for about $3 a gallon.
James said:
When I worked it out for my family, the hybrid didn’t make sense. It would take around 7 years to break even.
Hybrids are older tech with more parts that can break and cost more to fix. Unless it’s a Toyota or Honda, the extra expenses really don’t make it worth it. If you want one, maybe lease it. If you’re buying, the naturally aspirated V6 is more reliable and cheaper to maintain.
@melissasavant
You make good points, but my V6 uses a ton of gas unless I drive really slowly.
ElizaFord said:
@melissasavant
You make good points, but my V6 uses a ton of gas unless I drive really slowly.
Over time, the cost of repairs and maintenance for a hybrid offsets the gas savings. When you factor in the hassle of upkeep, I think the V6 wins.
I drive about the same amount as you, and I’m going for the gas-only version. Here’s why:
- Hybrids struggle on steep hills, and I live in a hilly area.
- I want a spare tyre, and hybrids often don’t have one.
- I like the quick power of a V6 when merging on highways.
- Most of my driving is on highways, where hybrids don’t get as much of an MPG advantage.
- I prefer the feel of a traditional gear shifter.
@Mickey
Wait, no spare tyre? I didn’t even think about that. And yeah, I don’t like those dial shifters either. But I had no trouble merging on the highway when I test drove it.
I love that I can wait for my daughter in the car without leaving the engine running to stay warm or cool.
Not needing to stop for gas as often is a big deal for me. It feels like we’re always low on gas at the worst times, and the main driver rarely fills up in advance.
Brianna said:
Not needing to stop for gas as often is a big deal for me. It feels like we’re always low on gas at the worst times, and the main driver rarely fills up in advance.
And it’s nice that you can fill up while the heat or AC is on for the kids without the engine running.
We take a lot of long trips, so fewer stops for gas is a big plus. It’s also quieter, so the kids sleep better. When waiting at school or sports pickups, the engine doesn’t run to keep the car warm.
I’ve been thinking about this too since I drive about the same amount. One thing I’ve read is that hybrids save on brakes because of regenerative braking. Apparently, you can go 100,000 miles before needing to replace them, compared to 65,000 for regular cars. Also, I’m considering it because I worry about climate change and want to do something small to help.
The ride is smoother, and the low RPM torque is really good. It’s also much quieter, which is great for naps.
It really depends on your situation. The price gap for hybrids isn’t as big as it used to be.
- Are gas prices high where you live?
- Do you mostly drive in the city? (Hybrids don’t get as much MPG benefit on highways.)
As for maintenance, hybrids can be easier. Oil changes are less frequent since the engine doesn’t work as much, and the brakes last longer due to regenerative braking. But if something breaks, repairs can cost more. The good news is you usually get a 10-year/100,000-mile warranty that covers major hybrid components.
It really depends on your driving habits and what you’re looking for.
It really comes down to gas prices where you live and how much you drive. For me, it looks like… This comment is empty, admin should fix.