What are the Pros and Cons of Hybrid Cars?

As hybrid and EV models are becoming more and more common on Normal-area roads, you may be wondering, “Are hybrid cars worth it?” The hybrid market was once fairly limited, but today every automotive brand offers many eco-friendly options ranging from compact sedans to full-size SUVs. So, is a hybrid vehicle a smart choice for you? In this guide from BMW of Bloomington, we’ll explore the pros and cons of hybrid cars so you can make an informed decision on whether one of the hybrid models in our new BMW inventory will suit your lifestyle and driving needs.

Pros of Hybrid Cars

Here are some of the key benefits of driving a hybrid: 

• Energy Efficiency: Hybrid vehicles are powered by an electric motor and a traditional combustion engine working in tandem to maximize fuel economy. Just about all hybrid vehicles feature regenerative braking, which is a system that converts the kinetic energy that is generated when you apply the brakes and uses it to recharge the battery. This results in less fuel consumption, fewer emissions, and less money spent at the gas pump.
• Ownership Costs: You can now find hybrid cars that are quite affordable, and many states offer tax incentives that can help you save even more. In addition, hybrid vehicles include a generous battery warranty to protect your investment for the long run.
• Diverse Variety: Hybrid cars used to be more compact and lower powered when compared to traditional options, but recent models now include high-performance hybrids, as well as powerful trucks and SUVs that are ideal choices to upgrade your Decatur-area commute.

Potential Cons of Hybrid Cars

While there are some attractive benefits to owning a hybrid car, there are a few possible drawbacks you should consider before you start shopping for a hybrid. Review the following points, and feel free to contact us if you have any questions: 

• Price: Hybrid cars typically come with a higher sticker price than gas-powered vehicles. However, the cost is offset by fuel savings and federal incentives. 
• Maintenance Costs: Although hybrid cars often require less maintenance than gas-powered cars, hybrid car maintenance costs tend to be higher, especially if the battery needs to be replaced. Hybrid car batteries can cost around $2,000+, depending on the model. 
• Hybrid Emissions: Hybrid vehicles are more eco-friendly than gas-powered cars, but less so than EVs. If your goal is zero-emissions, you may wish to consider an all-electric vehicle as an alternative. 

BMW Hybrid and EV Models

So, are hybrid cars good? Absolutely, and the available BMW hybrid and EV lineup features vehicles that include state-of-the-art technology and dynamic performance. There are hybrid and EV versions of the following BMW models: 

• BMW 3 Series
• BMW 5 Series
• BMW 7 Series
• BMW i3
• BMW i8
• BMW X3
• BMW X5
• BMW X5 eDrive
• BMW X6

Two all-new fully-electric BMW models will be released in the Spring of 2022 – the BMW i4 and BMW iX. The i4 is a high-performance 4-door sports coupe and the iX is a high-performance SAV® and both are poised to take your Urbana-area driving experience to the next level.

Find Your Next Vehicle at BMW of Bloomington

You’ve reviewed the pros and cons of hybrid cars, so are hybrid cars worth it? We think you’ll agree that a hybrid vehicle is indeed well worth having. If you’re ready to get behind the wheel of an exciting new BMW hybrid, visit our dealership in Bloomington today! Our friendly and knowledgeable sales associates are standing by to provide you with all of the details regarding the available BMW hybrid and EV models. Don’t forget to ask about our new vehicle specials to get the best deal possible on your BMW hybrid!