New Hybrid Cars

Hybrid cars usually combine two sources of power, the most common being a combination of electric motors and gasoline combustion engines. They are an increasingly popular alternative as more and more people switch to greener vehicles. New hybrid cars are launched all the time, but it's good to consider what you want to get from a hybrid car before purchasing one.

The specialist blog New Hybrid Cars OnLine says new buyers should "make sure that the car not only fits within your lifestyle, but you also want something affordable." The good news is that when it comes to performance, hybrid cars match conventional cars in most criteria, including road handling and acceleration times. Fuel performance is better than in the case of standard vehicles and drivers can expect innovative on-board features. Also, because hybrid cars use gas, fuel recharging is carried out at traditional gas stations. Purchase costs of new hybrid cars are not much higher, although repair and maintenance may be, due to some of the innovative aspects of the technology involved. However, some hybrid car manufactures offer generous warranties of up to 100,000 miles.

The Toyota Prius has been one of the most popular hybrid cars since its launch in 2003. The 2010 Toyota Prius is one of the most economical of the new hybrid cars recently launched. According to the reference website Hybridcars.com, "the car inspires a cult-like devotion from its drivers. Satisfaction rates, consistently at about 98 percent, are unparalleled.� The website says the new hybrid car from Prius is bigger and more powerful. "The engine grew from 1.5 liters to 1.8 liters - giving a boost in horsepower from 110 to 134, and thereby reducing zero-to-60 time by a full second. In addition, the body is about four inches longer and about an inch wider." Best of all, it offers 50 miles per gallon in combined city/highway driving.

Another popular name amongst new hybrid cars is the 2010 Honda Insight. It reaches 40mpg and costs less than $20,000, which is $2,000 less than the Toyota Prius. According to Hybridcars.com, "the Insight is thousands of dollars cheaper, gets comparable fuel economy, has a crisper look and provides a more agile and enjoyable ride. But [it] is noticeably smaller [than the Prius], especially for passengers in the backseat."

Ford is another manufacturer offering new hybrid cars and has was awarded the North American Car of the Year award at the 2010 Detroit auto show for its Ford Fusion Hybrid, besides a few other accolades. Still according to Hybridcars.com, the model�s success owes to a combination of sophistication, power and mainstream appeal. "It's fun to drive and speaks of refinement all around, from handling and braking through comfort and convenience." Finally, the 2010 Mercury Milan Hybrid offers close competition to the Ford Fusion Hybrid as one of the hottest new hybrid cars. It's lauded for its stylish design and costs about $3,000 more than Ford's competitor.