How to choose a hybrid car with 5 doors

Hybrid vehicles are economical because they use both gas and electricity. Hybrid hatchbacks and 5-door SUVs offer more cargo and passenger space.

Hybrid vehicles allow drivers to save on gas while helping the environment. The five-door options offer the added benefit of more versatile cargo capacity, allowing you to haul more than you could in a standard alternative fuel vehicle. There are a few things you need to keep in mind when shopping for a five-door hybrid, including what features you want, the price you're willing to pay, and which particular make and model of car you prefer.

Part 1 of 3. Explore available hybrid models

When you start looking for a five-door hybrid, there are a few things to keep in mind. First decide on the make and model of the car you need. Then decide what features you want from the hybrid. Finally, choose a car model that fits your price range and includes the features you've chosen.

Step 1. Research each car manufacturer.. When shopping for a hybrid, keep in mind that every vehicle manufacturer usually has at least one hybrid option to choose from.

Fuel efficiency varies by model, but most door-to-door hybrids get between 25 and 30 miles per gallon (MPG) on city streets or highways.

Step 2. Consider all the characteristics of the car. Popular vehicle features include various wheel, cargo, and interior packages.

Some of the more popular interior features include heated mirrors and seats, in-car entertainment, and remote engine start.

Step 3. Set a budget. The price of the car also plays a big role in choosing a five-door hybrid.

Be sure to check the dealer websites to get an idea of ​​the asking price for a particular make and model of hybrid before settling on a particular model.

Once you've found a few five-door hybrid models that you like, it's time to narrow down your selection to the one you want. This includes determining whether the dealer's asking price for a particular brand and model of hybrid falls within the range of market value. You also need to check the history of any vehicle you are thinking of buying. Finally, you need to take any car you're thinking of buying for a test drive, making sure it's checked by a trusted mechanic while you're away.

Step 1: Check the current market value. You can easily determine the fair market value of a vehicle by visiting one of the many market valuation websites on the internet.

For best results, visit a car aggregator website such as Kelley Blue Book, Edmunds.com, or Autotrader.com.

Step 2: Check vehicle history. Before you come to the lot, check the history of all used cars you are interested in.

A site like Carfax can give you access to a vehicle history report.

Vehicle History Reports let you know if a vehicle has been in an accident, been declared a wreck, or has been overhauled.

In addition, many used car sites offer free history reports on any car they sell.

Step 3: Take the car for a test drive. Once the vehicle has been checked through the Vehicle History Report and you have determined that it is worth what the dealer is asking for, it is time to visit the lot and take the vehicle for a test drive.

When you test drive your car, try to drive it in the conditions you expect to experience every day. This includes driving it in hilly areas if you plan on driving in hills, long straights if you'll be driving the Interstate a lot, and in stop-and-go situations if you plan on city driving.

During the test drive, ask an experienced mechanic to meet with you to inspect the vehicle to ensure that the vehicle does not have any invisible issues such as engine, transmission or other mechanical issues.

Part 3 of 3: Consider Insurance and Maintenance Costs

In addition to price and features, don't forget to consider the many other factors that go into the overall cost of the vehicle you want to purchase. Other factors to consider when purchasing a 5-door hybrid include the cost of any vehicle insurance, vehicle maintenance, or extended warranty.

Step 1: Estimate the cost of insurance. Depending on where you live, your gender and age, the total cost of insurance may vary.

Insurance premiums tend to be higher for younger male drivers. This is partly due to the tendency of younger male drivers to take more risks while driving, with men between the ages of 16 and 20 appearing to be the most risky.

Insurance rates can vary depending on where you live, with the cost of living and population density playing the biggest role in higher rates.

Step 2: Car Service. With the newness of alternative fuel vehicles, finding a garage that can service your hybrid can be difficult.

This is especially important on long trips. While you may have a local garage or dealership that can fix your 5-door hybrid if you travel outside of your city or state, finding a quality hybrid mechanic can be a challenge.

You should also keep in mind that the newer technology used will most likely mean higher maintenance or repair costs for your hybrid vehicle.

Step 3: Extended Warranty. As with other vehicles, many dealerships offer extended warranties that extend the manufacturer's warranty.

More often than not, extended warranties offered cover longer periods of time at an increased cost.

Usually offered by a company outside of the dealership, make sure you read and fully understand what is covered before purchasing an extended warranty.

Owning a five-door hybrid can save you money on gas and also help the environment. When looking for a five-door hybrid, remember to look for one that's big enough to fit your needs. With increased cargo capacity, the five-door hybrid lets you get around town with passengers, and also allows you to carry more cargo than a more standard hybrid. If you have any questions about your XNUMX-door hybrid, you can ask a mechanic to find out more.