Well for me, I thought I could not afford a hybrid at $20,000, I was looking in the $14 - 16 K range but when I factored in the savings in gas, it will actually cost me less in the long run than my previous car. But also for me I drive a whole lot and get reimbursed for mileage. I do at least 100 miles a day sometimes 200 and get between $20- $40 a day for mileage, so with me spending less on gas and still getting the same reimbursment, it works out for me. I know for a lot of people this isn't the case. And I think over the next few years most people will be able to afford a hybrid.