I agree with Bob. Given the short distances you are describing, I doubt you will see much savings from the hybrid. For a time I lived in Boston and had a 2 mile commute. In the winter (when I wasn't about to walk) I saw my all time low of 23 mpg on a tank.

That compares to my winter driving in CO. My 13 mile trip to work gives me around 28 mpg. It wasn't any colder there than here. During the summer it is much higher (~35).

So, if you are looking for some kind of payback, you are unlikely to get it out of the HiHY. Just my $0.02.

2005 Ford Escape Hybrid - Titanium Green, 4WD, Appearance Pkg, Leather, Nav System