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With consumer prices rising, this is an excellent time to consider purchasing a used vehicle. However, you have more choices than ever before. Even if buying a full Electric Vehicle (EV) isn't an option, purchasing a used hybrid car could be a viable alternative. Alternatively, you could opt for a traditional gas-powered Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicle.
Which is the better buy will depend on your own needs and driving habits. Both types of vehicles have their own pros and cons. So let's take a look at the most important factors.
First, to quickly summarize how hybrids work: Most hybrid vehicles combine a gasoline engine, which is the primary power source, with multiple batteries and electric motors that lighten the load on the gas engine. Hybrids typically do not require plugging in; instead, they recharge their batteries while driving.
The big advantage of hybrids is their long-term value. A hybrid has far better gas mileage than an ICE car, typically around twice the miles per gallon. These savings are particularly noticeable in city stop-and-go traffic. With gas prices going up and no sign of when they'll come down again, this could save substantial money over the lifespan of the car.
While hybrids aren't as 'green' as fully electric vehicles, that improved gas mileage also means lower emissions per mile. If you're concerned about your carbon footprint, a hybrid can help bring it down.
Right now, hybrids and EVs are holding onto their value better than ICE vehicles. So while you will pay more up-front for a hybrid, you'll get more of it back later on when it's time to sell or trade in.
Modern gas-powered ICE vehicles still run on the same principles they have for over a century: Gasoline is fired into a combustion chamber and ignited, providing power for pistons that run the drivetrain. Modern gasoline vehicles are a bit cleaner and more efficient than older models, although nowhere near as clean as EVs or hybrids.
Whether you're buying new or used, ICE vehicles are almost always cheaper than equivalent electric or hybrid models. Old technology is cheaper to make, and gas cars lack the exotic equipment found in electric-powered vehicles.
Because ICE engines are well-understood, you can take a gas-powered car to virtually any garage and receive competent service. This isn't necessarily true of hybrids, which often require specialist training. Likewise, parts and components for ICE vehicles tend to be cheaper than those for hybrids.
If you do power-hungry driving, such as racing or off-roading, gasoline is still king. Hybrids are focused on reducing fuel use, so they naturally fare poorly in comparisons where more power is needed. In addition, ICE engines typically offer better acceleration when coming off a stop.
In short, used hybrid cars are best if you're interested in a long-term investment, and especially if you live in a city with a lot of stop-and-start traffic. ICE vehicles are better if you're looking to save money up-front, or you live in an area with challenging terrain.
Still not sure? 1000 Islands Toyota can help! We offer fully factory-certified used Toyota vehicles, both hybrid and gas, with verified CarProof reports available for every car.
Contact us, or just come on by, to arrange some test drives!