I am in the process of trading my 2005 gas Escape for an '08 hybrid. I am getting a fantastic deal on the new one ($2300 off sticker) but am getting taken for a ride on the trade. All the major sites suggest trade in is $15000 or higher; KBB says $13,145 which is about what I'll get (I still owe quite a bit on my current car). However, the sales tax savings and good price allows me to break even. Please keep in mind that the trade in value by all the sites is not what you should expect to get. The dealerships typically use what they could get at an auction and give you that or a bit more. Run the numbers--the sales tax savings and your down payment may make it worth it to just trade to avoid the hassle. I found out selling it on my own would save about $5 a month, and I decided that wasn't worth it to me. Good luck!