A friend of mine is thinking abut buying a Mini Hybrid. I'm trying to talk her out of it. Am I correct in arguing that the Mini will suck her dry over time? I suggested a Prius if she wants a hybrid. I told her to make some calls and compare common repair charges, such as water pumps, alternators, timing chains etc.
Clarification: brand new or used?
If she absolutely wants a hybrid, go only with a new Toyota Prius (I don’t recommend used Prius hybrid with higher mileage). Otherwise, walk away from the Mini. The regular gas versions were not good (especially for long term), and going hybrid only adds to the potential headaches to come. For certain, she should not buy/own a Mini (or Mini Hybrid) out of warranty! If she must have a Mini Hybrid, only lease it and return before the bumper to bumper warranty expires.
