Ok, my 2006 Malibu needs at least $3000 worth of work and has 350,000km on the odometer. It hasn't been bad on gas - been getting 32mpg on my commute (I drive 75% highway, 25% city). Engine is fine. I am trying to decide whether to fix the Malibu or get a decent used hybrid so the better mileage gas savings can go towards the monthly payments. Got it? Ok... So far I have found: a one-owner, no-accidents, nicely maintained 2009 Honda Civic Hybrid with 100,000 km on it and a brand new battery. (I am nervous about the recent battery lifespan claims since the battery is $2000+ and it had to be replaced after just 100,000 km) OR a one-owner, no-accidents, decent shape 2007 Prius with 90,000 km on it. They are both $10,500 CDN. Not sure what to do. They get about the same highway mileage (as posted by EPA and average user claims). Prius gets better in-town of course, but I don't do that much city driving. What could I expect in ongoing maintenance for the 2007 Prius or the 2009 Civic Hybrid? That will help me decide which will be the most economical including payments if I buy, plus gas and expected maintenance costs. What kind of mileage would I realistically get with the Prius (including winter driving commuting across South Western Ontario with very little stop-and-go traffic? i.e. not Toronto) p.s. The Malibu is costing me an average of $1700 a year to maintain (primarily replacing brake pads, rotors, etc. due to the 40,000 km I drive each year).
All I can offer is that I believe I read about prematurely failing batteries in Civic Hybrids and I think 2009 was the year.
The Prius is a far better car mechanically, but in my opinion though the Civic is going to be a bit more comfortable and drive a bit better. I'd pick the Prius any day.
