Published March 15, 2012
By Philippe Crowe
Yesterday automotive data and analysis firm, Vincentric released the results of its 8th annual Vincentric Best Value in America awards which included several hybrids in tally.
Vincentric measures cost-of-ownership using eight different cost factors: depreciation, fees & taxes, financing, fuel, insurance, maintenance, opportunity cost, and repairs. Using a statistical model, the company identified the Vincentric Best Value in America winners by measuring which vehicles had lower than expected ownership costs given their market segment and price.
Each vehicle was evaluated in all U.S. states (where applicable) using a range of annual mileage intervals and insurance profiles.
Full results from Vincentric’s results can be found on its Web site. Out of the 42 different categories, following are five we’re highlighting pertaining to green cars.
Compact, Hybrid
Toyota Prius
The Toyota Prius, won the Vincentric Best Value in America award for the 7th year. This frequently awarded vehicle earned its victory based on the best fuel economy in its class, supported by low repair and operating costs. The runner-up was the Honda Insight which put up a good fight with a low total cost-of-ownership.
Electric/Plug-in Hybrid Car
Chevrolet Volt
The Chevrolet Volt won the Vincentric Best Value in America award for the second year in a row due to ownership costs that were 4-percent lower than expected. Competition from the Nissan Leaf and Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid was strong,
Mid-Size, Sedan, Hybrid
Toyota Camry Hybrid
With strong competitors from Toyota, Ford, and Hyundai, buyers have a choice when looking to combine the functionality of mid-size sedans with the environmental benefits of a hybrid.
The third-place Ford Fusion Hybrid and second place Hyundai Sonata Hybrid scored well with strong fuel economy and low depreciation. However, the Toyota Camry Hybrid took the top spot, winning for the second year in a row based on the strength of its lowest fuel and maintenance costs in the segment.
Mid-Size, Sedan, Premium, Hybrid
Lexus HS 250h
The solid combination of low maintenance and repair costs along with good fuel economy resulted in a 3-percent lower than expected cost-of-ownership in this premium hybrid segment, beating last year’s winner – the Lincoln MKZ.
Crossover, Hybrid
Toyota Highlander Hybrid
The Toyota Highlander Hybrid earned the top spot for the second year in a row. In this competitive segment, the Toyota Highlander has earned the Vincentric Best Value in America award due to its better than average fuel and maintenance costs, complemented by a low depreciation rate.
