Reply #13: 50.3 here! [View All]

[ChicagoBlue]

I'm averaging 50.3 mpg after 1200 miles in a 2005 here -- not too bad for a beginner!

As far as the hybrids go, you have to consider what the majority of your driving is like. It it is mostly open highway, it may not be the right vehicle. A diesel might do you better. For stop-and-go and city driving, though, it is ideal! As for me, I'm a suburban city street driver mostly -- so it made perfect sense.

You also have to realize that buying a hybrid isn't really about saving money. It costs about $3000 more than the comparable non-hybrid car (though they partially make up for that with a LOT of extra features!). With the tax deduction, an average mpg of 45, and a gas priceof $2.00/gallon, the payback period isabout 5 years. Really, it is about a break even deal. If the price of gas rises faster than inflation, then the payback period gets shorter.

What it is about is advancing a new green technology. While extremely practical it consumes fewer non-renewable resources. Not only does it burn less gas, everything about the car is built with sustainability in mind from the biodegradable plastics to the top-of-the-line emmissions reduction system. As for the batteries -- they are recyclable. The disposal is not really an issue.

The REAL question is who really wants an SUV anymore???