We occasionally have the opportunity to meet other hybrid car owners and chat about the experience of owning a hybrid car. Recently readers Chris and Bernadette wrote to us and said they were considering adding a second hybrid vehicle to their family’s stable and had some specific questions regarding narrowing down their choice between a Nissan Altima Hybrid and a Toyota Camry Hybrid. During the course of our e-chats, they let it be known that they already owned and had been driving a Lexus RX 400h Hybrid. We found that intriguing, figuring they must really like it if they are considering another hybrid—so we asked them if they’d mind answering a few questions that we could share with other readers. By the way, they decided to go with the 2009 Altima Hybrid.
How long have you owned your Lexus 400h? Did you buy it new, and how many miles have you put on it?
We bought it new in March of 2007 and have about 12,000 miles on her. Her name is Gracie.
What do you like best about your 400h?
Well, it’s a toss up. The mileage is great for an SUV, we are getting 24-25 mpg consistently in mixed driving, mostly city, but the ride and refinement is right up there also – this is the most comfortable car we have ever owned.Is there anything specific (irrespective of fuel mileage) that you don’t like about the hybrid drivetrain?
No, not really, the hybrid drive train is virtually transparent to the driver. There is one thing though; people don’t hear the car when driving through a parking lot.
Why did you decide to buy a hybrid?
Honestly, I was intrigued by the engineering in the car. I researched it quite a bit before purchase and, being an engineer, was fascinated by the technology at work under the hood.We’re interested in hybrid-buyer demographics, and if you don’t mind sharing—could you share your age range?
My wife and I are celebrating our 50th birthday this year.
Is there anything else you would like to share with folks who may be considering purchasing a hybrid?
Admittedly, hybrids have not reached the point where they make economic sense. The fuel cost savings does not offset the additional cost of the vehicle. But the fact remains that those that purchase hybrids now are- sending a clear message to automobile manufacturers that we want fuel-efficient cars which fuels their drive to deliver alternative fuel vehicles to the market and
- we are consuming less gas and reducing dependency on foreign fuels and
- we are creating less emissions than driving non-hybrids.
One thing is clear: If you buy a hybrid vehicle now, you are speeding up the transition to alternative fuels that we all know has to happen soon.