The number of companies offering hybrid cars continue to grow. While many car companies currently have a hybrid model available, with each car manufacturer trying to gain a valuable piece of this growing market, most of the remaining companies have plans for hybrid vehicles on the horizon.
The Hybrid Car Market
While the Honda Insight, released in 1999, was the first hybrid car available, the Toyota Prius (introduced in the United States in 2000) has become the best-selling hybrid on the market. The Prius continues to earn favorable reviews as one of the better hybrid cars available, and a number of car companies have been aggressively targeting environmentally conscious consumers with their hybrid offerings.
Available Hybrid Vehicles
What started as just three hybrid vehicle options in 2004, has exceeded to 30 vehicles as of 2011. Whether you're looking for a truck, SUV or just a basic car, you can find almost anything in a hybrid model.
Cars
Hybrid cars still offer the best gas mileage available, some boasting mileage as high as 60 miles per gallon on the highway. If you're looking for a hybrid car, you can find options at the following manufacturers:
- Honda: Accord, Civic, Insight, CR-Z, Fit
- Toyota: Prius, Camry
- Nissan: Altima
- Lexus: LS 600h L, GS 450h, HS 250h, CT200h
- Mercedes: S400 BlueHybrid
- Hyundai: Sonata
- Ford: Fusion
- Infiniti: M35h
- Lincoln: MKZ
- BMW: ActiveHybrid 7
- Kia: Optima Hybrid
- Buick: Lacrosse eAssist
- Fisker: Karma
- Volkswagen: Jetta
SUVs and Vans
Most hybrid SUVs and vans offer between 20 to 30 miles per gallon of gasoline. That isn't nearly as good as the gas mileage for cars, but if you have a large family and need the extra space afforded by an SUV, then every bit you can save on gasoline will help your bottom line. Look for these makes and models of hybrid SUVs:
- BMW: X6 Hybrid
- Cadillac: Escalade
- Ford: Escape, C-Max
- Toyota: Highlander, Prius V, Sienna
- Chevrolet: Tahoe
- Porsche: Cayenne S
- Mercedes: ML 450
- GMC: Yukon
- Lexus: RX 450h
- Volkswagen: Touareg
Trucks
Trucks haven't come onto the scene yet as a major hybrid market, but there are a few options available that will enable you to get roughly 20 to 25 miles per gallon:
- Chevrolet: Silverado
- GMC: Sierra
Other Eco-Conscious Options
As technology continues to advance, more eco-friendly cars are being introduced to the marketplace. Some of these are hybrids and plug-in (electric) hybrids that can provide more than 100 miles per gallon in gas mileage. Other options include 100 percent electric models or hydrogen cars that can also save you a bundle when it comes to ongoing car maintenance expenses.
Should You Buy a Hybrid Vehicle?
Of course, that question is specific to each individual, and relies heavily on how much you wish to spend for a vehicle. While the cost savings over time, especially given the astronomical pricing of gasoline, make sense, not everyone has the financial means to purchase a brand new hybrid vehicle.
Do Your Homework
With the growing number of hybrid vehicle options crowding the market, your best purchasing plan should involve plenty of research. Wading through all of the facts will help you arrive at the vehicle in your price range, with the best miles per gallon and adequate interior room and safety features. Always consult testing information, such as Consumer Reports or Motor Trend magazine, as well as online review sites, including:
A Growing Trend
Whatever decision you make about your next car purchase, realize that if you do buy a hybrid car, you'll be in good company. A recent New York Times article stated that sales of the Toyota Prius are over 750,000 worldwide and growing. With environmental concerns coming to the forefront and an increased urgency for people to become more ecologically responsible, hybrid vehicles are just one option that makes a positive impact on the world.
