If you're planning to buy a used vehicle, it's a good idea to get a hybrid model. Hybrid vehicles are equipped with a gasoline-powered engine and one or more electric motors, which enables them to strike a great balance between performance and fuel economy. Let's find out why you should purchase a used hybrid car and which models are worth your consideration.
What Are the Benefits of Buying a Used Hybrid Vehicle?
Hybrid vehicles are becoming increasingly sought after because they offer many benefits over conventional vehicles. Below are a few good reasons why you should choose a used hybrid as your next vehicle.
Low Cost of Ownership
One of the main advantages of getting a hybrid car is that it can help you save substantially on fuel. Hybrid vehicles provide 20% to 35% better gas mileage than their gas-powered counterparts. This can mean thousands of dollars in fuel savings each year, depending on which model you own. In addition, a hybrid car usually requires fewer oil changes than a traditional one, so it can also reduce your maintenance costs.
Less Environmental Impact
Due to their lower fuel consumption, hybrid vehicles produce fewer tailpipe emissions than gas-powered cars, making them more environmentally friendly. They're helping reduce the harmful greenhouse gasses that are causing damage to the ozone layer and making the world less dependent on oil and other depleting natural resources.
Tax Incentives
If you decide to buy a pre-owned plug-in hybrid vehicle, you may qualify for a federal income tax credit. This tax credit is equal to 30% of the sale price of your chosen vehicle with a maximum limit of $4,000. In addition, the state of Pennsylvania offers a $1,500 rebate for the purchase of a used plug-in hybrid vehicle.
Pleasurable Driving Experience
Unlike conventional vehicles, which take some time to power up, hybrid vehicles are able to provide immediate torque because of their electric motors. When you step on the accelerator, the torque from the motor will immediately propel the car forward, getting it off the line quickly. This contributes to a smoother ride and a more engaging driving experience.
What Kind of Used Hybrid Vehicle Should You Buy?
With so many used hybrid vehicles to choose from, finding a model that fits you can be a daunting task. However, you can narrow down your options by taking your personal needs and preferences into consideration.
If you want to get an affordable used hybrid for daily commuting, it's best to buy a sedan, hatchback, or crossover. Such a vehicle is easy to drive and park even in confined spaces, thanks to its small dimensions. It's also more fuel-efficient than a larger vehicle, making it an excellent daily driver.
Need a more spacious hybrid vehicle to ferry around your family? Then, you'll be better off with a midsize or full-size SUV. These vehicles have a large cabin that can accommodate an entire family and plenty of cargo. They're also usually fitted with a long list of features to provide a comfortable, enjoyable, and safe ride. If you have a large family, you can opt for a three-row SUV or even a minivan.
Pickup trucks are a great option if you frequently have to haul or tow heavy loads. Compact and midsize trucks offer a good balance between drivability and work capability, while full-size and heavy-duty trucks can get any job done with their massive towing and payload capacities.
What Are the Most Popular Used Hybrid Cars on the Market?
If you're still unsure which type of used hybrid vehicle you should buy, you can just choose one of the most popular hybrids. These models are appealing to car shoppers because they've been proven to deliver outstanding reliability and high levels of owner satisfaction. The following is a list of the best used hybrid vehicles on the market:
Toyota Prius (2009 to 2015)
The Toyota Prius was the first mass-market hybrid vehicle from a major auto brand. While it may not be what you'll call sporty, it delivers a stellar fuel-efficiency rating of 51/48 mpg (city/highway). Additionally, it boasts Toyota's renowned build quality, making it one of the longest-lasting hybrid cars.
Honda Accord Hybrid (2013 to 2017)
The Honda Accord is a perennial favorite, and its hybrid version doesn't disappoint either. Besides great handling and a comfortable interior, the Accord Hybrid also returns an outstanding 49/47 mpg, which is only slightly lower than the rating of the smaller Prius.
Hyundai SONATA Hybrid (2016 to 2019)
The all-round excellence of the Hyundai SONATA Hybrid makes it a good choice for a wide range of car buyers. It also provides excellent value for money and earns 39/45 mpg.
Toyota RAV4 Hybrid (2012 to 2017)
As America's best-selling SUV, the Toyota RAV4 offers an appealing blend of dependability, practicality, comfort, and feature content. Rated at 34/30 mpg, its hybrid model has better gas mileage than most other SUVs on the used-car market.
Toyota Highlander Hybrid (2008 to 2013)
The three-row Highlander is probably Toyota's best people-hauling SUV, and it has been offering a hybrid powertrain since the 2000s. Besides remarkable reliability and strong resale value, the Highlander Hybrid also delivers 27/25 mpg, which is fantastic for a large SUV.
Lexus GS 450h (2007 to 2011)
Looking for a fuel-efficient luxury car? You won't go wrong with the Lexus GS 450h. This sedan not only features an upscale and well-equipped cabin, but it also comes with a 339-horsepower hybrid powertrain that can propel it from zero to 60 mph in a mere 5.2 seconds. Despite its power-packed performance, it still manages a respectable 25/28 mpg.
Your Dream Hybrid Vehicle Awaits at AutoOne
If you're shopping for a used hybrid vehicle in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, we invite you to stop by AutoOne to check out our awesome selection of pre-owned hybrid vehicles. Our dealership is the go-to place for drivers in the Lancaster area who are looking for the best deals on quality used cars. Whether you're looking for a used hybrid car, SUV, or truck, you can be sure you'll find your perfect match on our lot. Browse our inventory now, and contact us today to book a test drive.
Prius Prime by chumlee10 is licensed with CC BY-SA 2.0