Should You Get A Hybrid or Gasoline 2018 Pacifica?
Should You Get A Hybrid or Gasoline 2018 Pacifica?
Posted on April 19, 2018
Each year, more auto manufacturers are rolling out hybrid versions
of their top-selling vehicles. The 2018 Pacifica is no exception. With its
excellent mileage, along with the happy feeling you get knowing your investment
is good for the environment, you'd think the choice was obvious. However, it's
not that simple — if it were, Chrysler would no longer produce a gasoline-only
Pacifica model. How do you decide which one is best for you?
Price Tag
The sticker price on a hybrid Pacifica versus a gas-powered
Pacifica may be the deciding factor for many people. The MSRP on a hybrid 2018
Pacifica starts at $39,056, while the gas-only version is $36,445, a
competitive price for a top-quality, best-selling minivan. However, you'll save
on fuel costs over time, so it's helpful to do some math and find out the
break-even point on the $2,600 difference. This will vary depending on where
you live, and also depends on the price of gasoline, which constantly
fluctuates. The hybrid Pacifica is rated at 2.6 liters equivalent per 100 km combined city/highway when using both electricity and gas. By
comparison, the petrol-only Pacifica is rated at 8.4 liters per 100 km
combined.
Maintenance Costs
Another factor to consider is maintenance cost. Every vehicle
needs regular maintenance, from changing the oil to replacing brake pads. The
good news for hybrid owners is that although different maintenance is required,
the costs tend to be about the same as gas-vehicle maintenance.
Repairs, on the other hand, can be much pricier, since not all
repair shops have the capability to work on the complex inner workings of
hybrid powertrains. However, if you purchase a new Pacifica Hybrid, you'll have
a three-year/60,000 km warranty on the powertrain and a 10-year/160,000 km
warranty on the battery, along with limited warranties on other major
components.
Insurance
Will your hybrid Pacifica cost more than a gas-only Pacifica?
Probably, but that is mostly due to its higher cost. Vehicles that cost more
incur higher insurance premiums. Another factor that insurance companies
consider when setting your rates is the fact hybrids are usually favoured by
commuters, and driving frequently in heavy traffic increases the chances of
having an accident. On the other hand, some insurers charge less for hybrids.
Check with your own insurance company to find out.
Resale Value
As hybrid vehicles become more popular, they are in higher demand.
Therefore, hybrid vehicles tend to hold their resale value better than
gas-powered models. Kelley's Blue Book ranked the Chrysler Pacifica among the
top three 2018 minivans for its projected resale value; they predict that at 36
months it will be worth 41.7 percent of its original value.
Your decision to purchase a gasoline or hybrid 2018 Pacifica isn't
going to be easy. However, no matter which version you choose, you know you'll
be getting a vehicle with the same great Chrysler quality, innovative safety
features, and attractive styling. Visit us at Crosstown Chrysler Jeep Dodge in Edmonton, AB and we'll be happy to discuss all of the
pros and cons to help you decide.