Considering all costs, should I spend more for a hybrid vehicle? Cost for gas, repairs, insurance, etc.?

[Bob]

Does it make sense to buy a 2008 Tahoe Hybrid for $50,000 to save on gas, or would I pay less getting a different vehicle for a lower initial price, but higher gas cost? I need a vehicle that seats 6, any make or model, just looking for best overall value for buying it and cost of gas. Minivans are cheap, but the hybrids get about twice the miles per gal. of gas, so my gas cost is split almost in half. We drive about 20,000 miles per year. Any suggestions appreciated!

[Mommy]

No Hybrids.You need to change the Hybrid powertrain every 3-7 years. It costs $3000-5000 to fix.Saturn Vue seats 6 and gets good gas mileage for an SUV.Honda Odysee is best Minivan in its class.Honda Pilot is a good car.

[Laissez-FaireGuy]

When I sold Chevy, we were told that the Malibu Hybrid would save someone approximately $40 a year in fuel costs. I would think it would be similar on other hybrids. Usually dealers have a breakdown they can show you as far as potential savings go; or you could go to the Chevrolet website and see if they have it on there yet. Personally I would never get a hybrid. Consider this....the huge batteries needed are stored where? Not in the engine compartment....no room....so therefore they have to go in back somewhere, which will take away from your cargo area. Not to mention; what do you think would happen to those batteries if you were rear-ended at a high rate of speed? IMO it's not worth the risk.

[loonatic725479]

if your only driving 20k mies per year, an SUV hybrid is not worht it. Try something domestic, due to the fact that gas on them is a bit better. Plus, the battery in hybrids on average last only about 5 years, and cost a couple grand to replace.Try buying a Honda Pilot, Toyota 4 Runner, or Toyota Sequoia.They're all decent on gas, spacious, and sporty, plus, its MUCH cheaper than the tahoe hybrid.

[mikes]

total cost including fuel a high bread wont save money