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Hybrid Cars, Portland Oregon
Gas prices have soared and so has the desire to own a hybrid car. This is
somewhat unfortunate for those now shopping. With the demand outpacing the
supply, dealers know they are in a sellers market. What this means to you is it
is more important than ever to shop and get as many quotes as possible.
Another way of looking at this is that the traditional gas powered cars are
not moving and a better deal can be had on these models. Before you dismiss this
idea, consider that the cost of hybrid car is about 20% higher and the fact that
there is a push for alternative fuels now in high gear. One other consideration
is that traditionally the cost of new technology does go down as the demand
increases, thus the cost of these vehicles is likely to decrease off setting the
additional fuel cost.
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If you are set on a Hybrid car, follow the links so you can start
researching prices. |
Honda Civic Compact Sedan
Hybrid
City: 30-49 mpg Hwy: 40-51 mpg |
Honda Accord Midsize Sedan
Hybrid
City: 20-25 mpg Hwy: 29-34 mpg |
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Honda Insight Compact Coupe
Hybrid
City: 57 mpg Hwy: 56 mpg |
Toyota Prius Compact Sedan
Hybrid
City: 60 mpg Hwy: 51 mpg |
Ford Escape Hybrid Compact
SUV
City: 33-36 mpg Hwy: 29-31 mpg |
Mercury Mariner Hybrid
Compact SUV
City: 33 mpg Hwy: 29 mpg |
Toyota Highlander Hybrid
Midsize SUV
City: 31-33 mpg Hwy: 27-28 mpg |
Lexus RX 400h Midsize SUV
City: 31-33 mpg Hwy: 27-28 mpg |
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* Be prepared for these prices to change very quickly as demand rises! |
Overview
of Hybrid Cars
Size: Hybrids range in size from two-seat hatchbacks to five-seat,
midsize luxury SUVs. Most hybrids are moderately priced, but they usually
command full sticker price and sometimes a dealer markup on top of that.
Price: Hybrids are about 20-percent more expensive than their all-gas
counterparts.
Engine/Fuel Economy: Hybrids break into two categories: fuel-efficient
hybrids (getting from 35 to 50 mpg) and performance hybrids (getting from 20 to
30 mpg). The latter category offers good fuel economy, but the emphasis is on
performance. It's also important to bear in mind that the EPA's estimated
mileage for hybrids is difficult for most drivers to achieve in real-world
conditions.
Safety: In general, hybrids are as safe as all-gas cars. However,
concerns have been expressed about accidents which damage or expose the
batteries for fear that electric shocks are possible. Yet, hybrids have been on
the market for five years and accidents of this kind have not been reported.
Additionally, manufacturers maintain that they have taken steps to educate
emergency responders so that they can help accident victims without risking
injury.
Luxury Features/Convenience: Most hybrids are slightly more upscale than
their corresponding gasoline counterparts. This is due to an effort by
manufacturers to justify the premium that buyers pay for the privilege of saving
gas. Upper-level luxury models feature the latest in electronic gadgetry and
amenities.
Operating Costs: Operating costs, such as oil changes and routine
maintenance are comparable to normal cars. In some cases, brakes last longer due
to hybrids' regenerative braking systems. Manufacturers offer longer warranty
coverage for the hybrid-specific components, usually 8 years, so you're covered
if something goes wrong. One of the few unknowns is the cost of replacing the
hybrid batteries, though manufacturers contend the batteries are designed to
last for the life of the vehicle.
Mileage should continue to get better for hybrid cars as
research and development continues.
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