How to Compare Hybrids
Car buyers interested in protecting the environment may put hybrid vehicles at the top of their shopping list. These vehicles run on a combination of traditional fuel and power from an electric motor, providing better fuel efficiency and lower emissions than standard cars. While hybrids often cost more than traditional vehicles, buyers can recoup money over time with fuel savings. Kelley Blue Book notes that because hybrids have a lot more powertrain components than regular vehicles, they often offer less space for passengers and cargo.
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Check fuel efficiency. Since fuel economy is a main hybrid benefit, comparing the mileage offered by different models can help you determine your best potential purchase. The 2011 Toyota Prius sits at the top of the government's fuel economy list for hybrids, offering 51 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 48 mpg on the highway. At the bottom of the list, you'll find the BMW ActiveHybrid X6, with 17 city and 19 highway mpg.
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Determine dimensions. The amount of passenger and cargo space offered by hybrid vehicles gives you another criteria for comparison. A 2011 Nissan Altima Hybrid with no sunroof has 40.6 inches of head room and 44.1 inches of legroom for those riding up front, while the 2011 Honda Insight provides 38.4 inches of head room and 42.3 inches of legroom in the front seats. The Altima Hybrid has 10.1 cubic feet of cargo space, while the Insight has 15.9 cubic feet with the seats in an upright position.
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Compare prices. Hybrid vehicles start below $20,000 and exceed $50,000. For example, the manufacturer suggested a starting price of $50,735 for a new 2011 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid. The 2011 Honda Insight has a base price of $18,200.
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Find rankings. "U.S. News and World Report" conducts an in-depth analysis of vehicle rankings and reviews from dozens of sources to compile its lists of best vehicles. Vehicles at the top of its hybrid car list include the 2010 Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan hybrids, as well as the 2011 Chevrolet Volt. SUVs receiving strong marks include the 2011 Lexus RX 450h, the 2010 Toyota Highlander Hybrid and the 2011 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid. Models on the "Consumer Reports" list of best vehicles priced below $25,000 include the Honda Civic Hybrid and the Toyota Prius II. The publication calls the Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid one of the worst values on the market and the Toyota Camry Hybrid one of the best.
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Read reviews. Peruse the websites of "Motor Trend" and "Car and Driver" to see the comments professional test drivers have about their experience behind the wheel of hybrid models. Subscribers to the "Consumer Reports" website and magazine can access its analysis of hybrid vehicles.
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See safety ratings. The nonprofit Insurance Institute for Highway Safety uses crash tests and an assessment of safety features to assign safety ratings to vehicles. Review its data on hybrid models, as well as the ratings available from the government's five-star safety program.
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