With the price of gas lingering at well over $3.00 for a gallon of regular unleaded gasoline, it is no wonder that more and more consumers are trading in their gas-dependent vehicles for something a little more sustainable; in other words, a hybrid vehicle. Hybrid vehicles are just that—hybrid—using a mix of two or more sources of power. Generally, these power sources include a gasoline-powered, internal-combustion engine, as well as an engine that relies on electricity for power.
When they first hit the market, hybrid vehicles were fairly expensive, which largely prevented those operating on a budget from purchasing them. Eventually, the government authorized various tax credits that hybrid-vehicle owners could take advantage of when they efile their tax returns. Regardless, even with the tax incentives involved, early hybrid vehicles were still quite pricey. Luckily, contemporary hybrids are much more economical and in most cases, much more efficient than their pioneer predecessors. In fact, several wonderful hybrid models are readily available for under forty grand.
Three vehicles in particular—the Toyota Prius C, the Ford Fusion Hybrid, and the Acura ILX Hybrid—are receiving high reviews for 2013.
2013 Toyota Prius C
The icon of the hybrid world is the square-bodied Toyota Prius, which was available worldwide in 2000. Toyota has been producing newer models of the Prius ever since, including the 2013 Toyota Prius C—a more aesthetically-appealing, compact version of the standard Prius. With a base price of a little more than $19,000, the 2013 Prius C is slightly less expensive than the standard model and boasts a whopping combined fuel economy of around 50 miles-per-gallon. However, if you are looking for power, then the Prius C may not be for you. With a subcompact size and excellent fuel economy, Toyota had to downgrade the overall propulsion system, resulting in slower acceleration.
2013 Ford Fusion Hybrid
While the Toyota Prius has dominated the hybrid industry for some time now, other automakers are taking advantage as well. Ford, for example, is making big waves in the Hybrid world with the debut of their 2013 Ford Fusion Hybrid. The Fusion is already a well-known model in the auto industry, boasting a sleek and sporty design housing a relatively powerful engine; the 2013 hybrid model being no different. With a starting price of around $27,000, a combined fuel economy of 47 miles-per-gallon, and an interior brimming with high tech gadgets and gizmos, the 2013 Ford Fusion Hybrid is proving to be well worth the price.
2013 Acura ILX Hybrid
Most people would not expect to get a luxury hybrid vehicle for less than $40,000, but the 2013 Acura ILX Hybrid is quickly disproving this. With an MSRP of $28,900, the Acura ILX Hybrid boasts a luxurious ride coupled with a combined fuel economy of 38 miles-per-gallon. Based on the Honda Civic, the ILX Hybrid houses a similar SOHC i-VTEC 4-cyclinder engine, capable of producing 111 horsepower. Moreover, aside from a sleek and sporty stance, the ILX features a luxurious interior, littered with all sorts of cool technology, as well as extensive safety features.
While the year is changing, gas prices certainly are not. With no relief at the pump, drivers are desperately seeking out ways they can save. A hybrid vehicle can definitely provide a bit of sanity at the pump; then again, who needs a pump? Just plug in and go! 2013 is gearing up to be a phenomenal year in terms of hybrid technology—the three vehicles mentioned above are just a taste of what is to come. With a price of under $40,000, combined with various tax deductions, a hybrid vehicle purchase is not only an environmentally-responsible decision, but fiscally-responsible decision as well.
About the Author
This post was written by eco-advocate Andrew Brusnahan, who loves discovering new opportunities to be green and frugal at the same time. If you would like to get in touch with Andrew, contact him at abrusnahan@yahoo.com.
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