Hybrid vs. Gas Vehicles

With more and more hybrid options flooding the market, you may be wondering whether a hybrid model or a traditional gas model is the better choice to upgrade your Lake Elsinore driving experience. Are hybrid cars worth it? And what is a PHEV, and how does it differ from traditional hybrids? When you’re trying to decide between hybrid vs. gas, factors such as fuel economy, maintenance costs, and pricing all come into play that can influence your decision. This guide from the experts at Temecula Valley Lexus will explain the differences between hybrid vs. gas cars to help you make the right choice for your lifestyle and budget.

Gas-Powered Vehicles

Most of the cars, trucks, and SUVs on the Fallbrook market feature a traditional internal combustion gas-powered engine. A gas engine includes cylinder heads, valves, pistons, and spark plugs, all of which work together to power the four-stroke process that propels the vehicle. Advantages of a gas-powered vehicle include:

• More affordable purchase price
• Easier to find service and repair shops that are equipped to maintain the vehicle
• Deliver more power for accelerating and towing

Disadvantages that you may wish to consider include:

• Emit more harmful emissions
• Gasoline is a non-renewable resource

Hybrid Vehicles

Hybrid vehicles, unlike traditional gas-powered models, use electrified motors and battery packs to increase fuel efficiency around Riverside County. Conventional hybrid models use a combination of gas and electric power, relying on the gas engine to keep the battery pack charged. Are hybrid models worth it? Some of the advantages of hybrid models include:

• Increased fuel efficiency
• Saves money on fuel-ups
• Reduced emissions
• Higher resale value

Now consider some disadvantages of owning a hybrid vehicle:

• Higher purchase price
• Can be more costly to repair
• Often deliver less power when accelerating

What is PHEV?

As you search for hybrid models around Temecula, you may come across models that say “PHEV”. What is “PHEV” and what does “PHEV” stand for? PHEV stands for “Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle”, an advanced type of hybrid model that bridges the gap between hybrid and all-electric vehicles. When comparing PHEV vs. hybrid models, drivers will find that plug-in hybrids are equipped with larger battery packs and higher-powered electric motors and often offer short-range all-electric driving around town. Some of the benefits of choosing a PHEV vs. hybrid model include:

• Increased fuel efficiency
• All-electric driving capabilities
• Increased performance
• Fewer emissions

That said, for drivers looking to maintain their driving habits, the choice of a PHEV vs. a hybrid does have some downsides:

• Requires regular charging at home or EV charging ports
• Complex powertrain systems that may require skilled technicians

Compare Hybrid vs. Gas Car Pros & Cons at Temecula Valley Lexus

Now that you know more about the hybrid vs. gas car pros and cons and what “PHEV” stands for, the next step is to continue your exploration of electrified vehicles at Temecula Valley Lexus! If you have any questions or would like more information about the hybrid and EV models we have in stock, please feel free to contact us, or apply for financing online from the comfort of your own home if you think hybrid cars are worth it.