Spendy
One potential turn-off for buyers considering hybrid cars is price. It is true that the initial cost of such a car is generally $3,000 - $6,000 higher than a similarly-sized conventional vehicle, but there are post-purchase savings that may off-set the initial outlay. As an example, many hybrids are sold with upgraded stereo systems as a standard feature, rather than an optional expense, and some qualify for the 2005 "clean fuel" federal tax deduction (up to $2,000).

While it doesn't save money, some states allow even single-occupant hybrid vehicles to use "diamond" or "HOV" (high occupancy vehicle) lanes. Fuel economy, however, is the largest attractor of buyers, and while not every driver is really going to get 49-53 miles per gallon, driving a hybrid still means less frequent, and less expensive, visits to the gas station. It is suggested at greenhybrid.com that, if fuel prices remain where they are, many hybrid-owners may break even on their purchases, over the life of their cars.

Maintenance costs are another decision-making factor, but hybrid maintenance, as long as it is not battery-related, is not that different than maintaining a "regular" car. Most normal mechanics can handle the usual wear and tear issues, and owners of smaller hybrids say that oil changes are less frequent, recommended every 5,000 miles, instead of every 3,000. However, it should be noted that if the manufacturer's warranty becomes voided, a replacement battery pack can cost as much as $4,000.

Rumors of increased insurance costs are inconclusive. Many insurance companies simply don't have enough data, or enough insured hybrid cars, to give general quotes. Information at sites like greenhybrid.com and finetuning.com, however, suggests that the safety ratings on these cars is higher-than-average, which can be a positive factor in computing insurance premiums.