Honda’s Civic Hybrid is the least expensive Hybrid vehicle to own and operate, according to an RACV running costs survey.

The RACV’s 2006 Vehicle Operating Costs survey shows the cost of running a Honda Civic Hybrid is $169.34 a week, $24.57 less than the Toyota Prius.

“The Civic Hybrid costs less to purchase, costs less to run and is worth more after five years,” said Honda Australia Director Lindsay Smalley.

“The Civic Hybrid looks just like a regular Civic so is perfect for customers who want to make an ecological difference without sacrificing the comforts of a regular sedan. The Civic Hybrid also starts and runs just like a normal car – just turn the key to start it up and drive as normal.”

“The on-board computer controls the electric motor so the driver doesn’t need to switch it on or off,” he said.

“The Civic Hybrid also gains features normally reserved for top-spec models – such as curtain airbags, climate control air-conditioning and a six-stack CD player.”

The Civic Hybrid retails from $31,990 (recommended retail price) with the following features:

• 1.3-litre petrol engine paired with an electric motor
• 85 kW (170Nm)
• CVT automatic transmission
• 4.6 litres per 100 kilometres fuel consumption (ADR81/01)
• 15-inch alloy wheels
• Leather steering wheel
• Driver and passenger front i-SRS airbags
• Driver and front passenger side SRS
• Front and rear curtain airbags
• Cruise control
• Front fog lights
• Low rolling resistance 195/65 R15 tyres
• Climate control air conditioning
• 6-stacker MP3/CD tuner

The RACV survey examined 37 of the top selling cars in 11 vehicle categories based on standing costs; acquiring, financing, insuring and registration, and running costs; what owners pay on a regular basis for fuel, tyres, servicing etc.

Diesel/Hybrid – Running costs per week
fsd	sadf
HONDA CIVIC HYBRID 4D SEDAN 4cyl 1.3L CVT	$169.34
TOYOTA PRIUS HYBRID 5D HATCHBACK 4cyl 1.5L CVT	$193.91

Source: RACV 2006 Vehicle Operating Costs survey

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