Does hybrid increase insurance?

Asked by: Noel Becker  |  Last update: March 12, 2025
Score: 4.8/5 (25 votes)

Because of their unique parts and service needs, hybrid and electric vehicles usually cost more to insure than gas-powered cars. As such, it's important to price shop to find the cheapest car insurance rates for your eco-friendly vehicle.

Do hybrids cost more for insurance?

Generally, hybrid cars are more expensive to insure compared with a similar size and specification gas version. Insurance companies know that people buying a hybrid are saving on fuel and tend to cover more miles as well. This means that some of your fuel savings will be eaten up by higher insurance costs.

What is the downside to a hybrid car?

Poor handling: Hybrids have more machinery than conventional cars, which adds extra weight and reduces fuel efficiency. So, hybrid car manufacturers have had to make smaller engines and batteries to cut down on weight. But this results in reduced power for the vehicle and support in the body and suspension.

Do you actually save money with a hybrid car?

On average, drivers can save hundreds to over a thousand dollars per year by switching to a hybrid or electric vehicle, depending on their specific circumstances. The savings will be greater in areas with high gas prices or low electricity rates.

Do hybrid cars lose value quicker?

When comparing depreciation, hybrid cars often outperform both electric and traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles over a five-year period. This is largely due to the combined benefits of electric and gas powertrains.

VERIFY: Is car insurance more expensive for electric vehicles?

41 related questions found

Which car is least expensive to insure?

The Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-5, Jeep Wrangler and Subaru Outback are the cheapest cars to insure. All three have full coverage rates under $250 per month, on average.

Are hybrid cars worth it for long distance driving?

To sum things up, hybrids have no issues with long-distance driving. They avoid the range anxiety of EV ownership, as well as EVs' long recharge times, which keeps things moving swiftly when you're trying to pile on highway miles.

How long does it take for a hybrid to pay for itself?

While individuals who rarely hold onto vehicles for more than a couple of years may be better off putting their money behind the gas-only Toyota compact SUV, those who hold onto their car for years will find the RAV4 hybrid makes up for its initial upfront costs over the all-wheel-drive gas model in just over four ...

Are hybrid cars expensive to maintain?

The truth is that hybrid cars aren't any more difficult to maintain than a gas-powered model, and many drivers even find that their maintenance costs go down after making the switch! Let's dive into some of the most commonly asked questions about hybrid car maintenance, so you can shop with total peace of mind.

Why do people avoid hybrid cars?

Some of the drawbacks to owning a hybrid car include: Higher upfront costs. Maintenance can be expensive (when it's needed) They still produce fossil fuel emissions.

How long do hybrid cars last?

Leading hybrid manufacturers often estimate a lifespan of 80,000 to 100,000 miles. The good news? Regular maintenance and proper driving habits can significantly extend this range, with some owners reporting battery life reaching an impressive 200,000 miles.

What is the biggest problem with hybrids?

The most well-known hybrid car problem involves the battery. Hybrid cars rely on large, rechargeable batteries to power their electric motor. These batteries can degrade or fail over time. Battery issues can lead to decreased fuel efficiency, slower performance, and, ultimately, the inability to start the car.

Is there a downside to buying a hybrid?

Cons of Plug-In Hybrid Vehicles:

More costly to drive off the lot than a traditional gas engine. Maintenance and repair of two engines — gas and electric. If the electric battery is completely drained, the gas engine component will get only slightly better gas mileage than a traditional gas vehicle.

Which EV has the lowest insurance?

Here's its top 10 list for new EVs, beginning with the most affordable make and model to insure:
  • Nissan Leaf.
  • Ford F-150 Lighting.
  • Kia Niro.
  • Hyundai IONIQ (all models)
  • Volvo C40/XC40 Recharge.
  • Chevrolet Equinox EV.
  • Fiat 500e.
  • Subaru Solterra/Toyota BZ4X/Fisker Ocean Sport.

Are full hybrids worth it?

Hybrid owners enjoy better fuel economy, helping them save money, and can see their driving has less impact on the environment. However, while there are plenty of advantages to driving a hybrid, it's important to consider whether it's the right move for you. Hybrids may not suit everyone's lifestyle.

Do hybrids really save gas?

Compared to a traditional gasoline car, you can expect to save between 20% and 35% on gas, which can add up to significant savings over time, especially as fuel prices fluctuate. Beyond fuel savings, hybrids often hold their value better than gas-only vehicles due to their fuel efficiency and eco-friendly reputation.

Is it worth buying a hybrid car in 2024?

Are Hybrids Cars Worth Buying in 2024? If you need a car to help minimise your fuel costs, a hybrid can make a lot of sense. With their promise of improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions, they seem like an excellent choice for environmentally conscious and budget-savvy drivers.

Do hybrid cars depreciate faster?

It found that older battery electric vehicles and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles with shorter driving ranges depreciated at faster rates than conventional cars and hybrid electric cars; the one exception being Tesla, whose older battery electric vehicle model held its value better.

What is the main disadvantage of a hybrid vehicle?

Potential Cons of Hybrid Cars

Maintenance Costs: Despite requiring less maintenance than gas-powered counterparts, hybrid cars may incur higher costs, especially if the battery needs replacement. Depending on the model, hybrid car batteries can cost upwards of $2,000.

At what speed does a hybrid switch to gas?

The car starts up in electric mode automatically and stays in this mode up until a speed between 43 mph and 80 mph. If additional power is needed, or if the battery's charge is too low, then the car will activate the combustion engine.

Are hybrids more expensive to insure?

Because of their unique parts and service needs, hybrid and electric vehicles usually cost more to insure than gas-powered cars. As such, it's important to price shop to find the cheapest car insurance rates for your eco-friendly vehicle.

What color cars are more expensive to insure?

Does car color affect insurance rates? The color of your car doesn't affect your insurance rate. Instead, your insurance company uses other information, like your car's age, location, usage, and your driving record, to help determine insurance rates. Learn more about the factors that impact auto insurance pricing.

Who generally has the cheapest car insurance?

Geico, Nationwide and Travelers are among the least expensive for car insurance.

What is the most expensive car to insurance?

1. Maserati Quattroporte. The Maserati Quattroporte is a luxury sedan that typically costs over $2,500 per six-month policy period to insure, making this car the most expensive vehicle to purchase auto insurance for in 2021.