Here is the First "first drive" have seen with a 2006 Civic Hybrid:

http://www.autosite.com/content/shar...cle_id_int/717

They got 47.1 MPG in their test - WHEW !!! Looks like the MPG is coming up as advertised in the 2006 !!

They also list October 5th as the on sale date....

Quote:

The 2006 Honda Civic Hybrid is also offered in two exclusive exterior paint colors called Opal Silver Blue and Magnetic Pearl. Other colors include white, silver, and gray. Interiors are trimmed in Ivory, unless you opt for silver or Magnetic Pearl, in which case you get a special Hybrid-only blue interior trim.

 

I found out about the tax stuff by searching on google. Still cant figure out what "Car Use Tax" is though. While reading that first drive about the 06 Hybrid I noticed something I hadnt seen before, they moved the e-brake handle. It might be uncomfortable for me compared to the 05.

 

Everyone's situation is a bit different. Some Honda dealers have the 05 HCH discounted because the 06 is coming. We looked compared prices (figuring the 06 would not be offered at any discount) and went with the 05.

That is what made the most sense for us.

The 06 will be more fuel efficient but more expensive. How much do you have to drive to make up that difference?

 

47.1 mpg in a brand new car with little miles is great! Once it's broken in, it should easily top 50mpg. I'm sold, but I'm waiting til the tax credit kicks in.

 

The tax credit is only for a limited number of cars sold by the manufacturer so it will be first come first serve.

 

I guess I'll need to get up early on January 1st.

 

In regards to power:

05 HCH 5spd 0-60 in about 12.5 secs.
05 HCH CVT 0-60 in about 10 sec.

06 HCH CVT engine is 20 percent more powerful than the 05, I haven't seen any 0-60 numbers but would expect 9ish which is not shabby at all.

 

This is misleading information.
Once the 60K quota/manufacturer is reached, then a rebate decrease schedule goes into effect BY CALENDAR QUARTER, STARTING 90 DAYS AFTER THE TRIGGER QUARTER ENDS. So there should never be any doubt what rebate you are entitled to; and in no case will the first two quarters of 2006 have decreased rebates, no matter how many hybrids are sold.

 

Another good review of the 2006 HCH with specs and pics:

http://hybridscoop.com/article/2006_...ybrid_-_50_mpg

 

While looking at specs I see the 06 is a wider vehicle so it shouldnt be a problem with the e-brake. I'm going to go and test drive the 05 HCH tommorrow to see if it is up to par, then I'll consider an 06 HCH. Some more questions...

Does the HCH have any other wheels available than the pie tin looking ones? Will different wheels effect FE?

Are Hybrids reliable? I have heard mixed things about reliability. Should I get an extended waranty? Is there one available, if so how much and what is the coverage on it?