A hybrid car has become one of the most popular automotive trends in recent years. With more and more people worrying about the environment and the high cost of gasoline, the idea of buying a car that can run on different fuel types makes much sense. But is a hybrid car worth the expense? Here are some of its pros and cons:

Because a hybrid car is a new trend, the government is pushing hard to get it into the consumer's eye. This means buyers will get incentives, tax deductions of up to $ 1500 US Dollars (USD), special warranty provisions, and the right to drive their hybrid cars in High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes. A hybrid car has no marked differences with a traditional car, and requires no special handling or driving skills.

A hybrid car gets a much higher mileage, up to ten percent in some cases, and emits 97% less toxins into the environment than the average car. They are lighter and have a gentler impact on roads and soft terrain. With the price of gasoline soaring, a car that can run on both gas and electricity, depending on the circumstance, is a big advantage. Most people who decide to buy a hybrid car, however, cite a "feel-good factor" as their main reason for buying the car. It is their small way to contribute to a greener world.

Despite all the benefits cited above, a hybrid car also has some downsides. For starters, they are expensive. Even with the tax deduction offered, a hybrid car tends to be more an average of $3000 US Dollars (USD) more expensive than a traditional car. They cost more to register, and repair costs tend to be hefty, as all the car systems are intrinsically connected, and only expert mechanics can handle repairs. Parts may not be readily available, which could mean being without a car for a longer period as you are waiting for it to be repaired.

Toyota leads the markets on hybrid cars, with 21 trucks and 17 cars either in production or expected to hit the market soon. Honda, Ford, and GM's Chevrolet also produce a small percentage of hybrid cars; other companies, such as Nissan and Hyundai, are joining the market by 2008.