We buy used and we pay cash so hybrids are out of the question for now. We are also a one car family.

In the next couple of years we're going to need to upgrade to a slightly bigger car to fit everyone in (the kids will be teens soon).

Anyone know any good small SUVs / larger compact cars that have really good milage?

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In the next few years you might be able to find some hybrids available in the used market.. My best friend just bought a new saturn VUE hybrid.. and she loves it! It is a great 5 seater, and gets excellent gas mileage. Which is good, since she lives 2 hours away, and travels here at least 1-2 times per month.

We're pretty happy that we downsized to the Honda CRV. It gets 21mph and is highly rated for quality. It's not luxurious like our 4Runner Limited, but it's just fine for us and our budget.

A "larger compact" car? What is that - sounds contradictory. We also downsized from our Accord (which I loved, but it was leased - never again) and Toyota Camry (nice) to a Honda Civic due to dh's commute. We're quite happy w/the Civic and its quality. He's getting 41mph.

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LOL. I thought that when I wrote it. We call an regular car here a 'compact car' meaning not a sports car, or a SUV or a minivan. Just a regular car. But it does sound like a bit of an oxymoron.

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This is my dream car. We have a Saturn now and I love it. I hope some used hybrids are available in the next few years.

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I wish they made a hybrid minivan... I LOVE how I can have the kids separated on long car trips (they each get their own "row"). It really helps us drive in peace!

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My Toyota Sienna mini-van averages 25mpg. On longer highway trips, we get 27mpg. I think a lot of the vans are better than even the small suvs and give a lot more interior room. As for the mini-van "stigma", I know I am COOL, I don't need my car to prove it!

I edited to add that we used to have to take 2 cars when we did trips with the Grandparents or friends, now we can use our 8 passenger Sienna which gets great mileage - so it is very environmentally friendly for us!

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Mommy to Bryce 2/20/2005 and Skye 3/4/2008