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Hybrid Cars, Vancouver
Washington
A "Hybrid"
is a vehicle that has both an internal combustion engine and one or more
electric motors that operate (in unison and/or independently) to propel the
vehicle.
Overview of Hybrid Car Features |
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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.
If you are set on a Hybrid car, here are the links so you can start your
home work.
These are already arranged in order by price. |
2006 Honda Civic Compact Sedan
Hybrid
MSRP: $14,760-$23,650
City: 30-49 mpg Hwy: 40-51 mpg |
2006 Honda Accord Midsize Sedan
Hybrid
MSRP: $18,225-$32,990
City: 20-25 mpg Hwy: 29-34 mpg |
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2006 Honda Civic Compact Sedan Hybrid |
2006 Honda Accord Midsize Sedan Hybrid |
2006 Honda Insight Compact Coupe
Hybrid
MSRP: $19,330-$21,530
City: 57 mpg Hwy: 56 mpg |
2006 Toyota Prius Compact Sedan
Hybrid
MSRP: $21,725
City: 60 mpg Hwy: 51 mpg |
2006 Ford Escape Hybrid Compact
SUV
MSRP: $26,900-$28,525
City: 33-36 mpg Hwy: 29-31 mpg |
2006 Honda Insight Compact Coupe |
2006 Toyota Prius Compact Sedan |
2006 Ford Escape Hybrid Compact SUV |
2006 Mercury Mariner Hybrid
Compact SUV
MSRP: $29,225
City: 33 mpg Hwy: 29 mpg |
2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
Midsize SUV
MSRP: $33,030-$39,290
City: 31-33 mpg Hwy: 27-28 mpg |
2006 Lexus RX 400h Midsize SUV
MSRP: $44,660-$46,060
City: 31-33 mpg Hwy: 27-28 mpg |
2006 Mercury Mariner Hybrid Compact SUV |
2006 Toyota Highlander Hybrid |
2006 Lexus RX 400h Midsize SUV |
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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.
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