Thanks for the update. I am in love with the Mini Cooper, especially the convertible. What a fun car? If i could have an Insight AND a hybrid Mini Cooper convertible, my driving needs would be compelety fulfilled.

Best of luck. Hybrids are not for everyone. At least not right now with the minimal selection.

 

In 2008, take a look at the smart fortwo Brabus - Penske will be selling them in the USA beginning in March or April. It'll be spritely with over 80 HP, have excellent roadholding and return way better fuel economy than the MINI.

I hear you on the Prius - I've been in them many times and the driving experience reminds me of granny's 1986 full-sized Buick. The fuel economy is exceptional, but the roadholding is soggy and uninspiring.

 

I can't say I blame you too much on the Mini-Cooper buy, since it is definitely a cute little car. You won't hear huge gripes on that level of gas mileage here, either, since several of the hybrid models on this very forum are in that general range (the hybrid SUVs). You have to make the call that's right for you, and we respect that.

Don't feel that you have to leave GH, either, just because you didn't buy a hybrid this time around. In a couple of years, when lots more hybrid options are on the lots, who knows? And in the meantime, you probably have done enough research on hybrids to answer the questions of other prospective buyers who come to this site, and we can always use more posters around here, especially people with up-to-date information! So don't go away just yet! Anyone interested in hybrids and the issues surrounding hybrids is more than welcome here.

Best of luck with the Mini.