The engines in hybrid automobiles are usually much smaller (except in some brand new V-6 models). While this reduces fuel consumption, it means that for extra “power” that drivers are looking for has to come from somewhere else. That’s where electric motor and batteries come into play. In some models, sensors detect that car is in need of extra energy for going up hill, for example. That’s when “hybrid” half of engine kicks in. It will do a dandy job of giving engine that extra oomph or boost that it needs, without using any more gasoline.

Newer hybrid models do a lot of extra tricks so that your car gets as many miles to gallon as possible. For example, when you’re stopped at a traffic light, another sensor will trigger gasoline engine to idle down to a complete stop, while car stays “running” solely on its electric power. Did I mention ingenious?

Since idea behind hybrid powered car is reduced fuel consumption without loss of speed or power, many cars are being designed to move through streets with utmost in aerodynamic form; meaning that a hybrid will create less “drag,” simply due to its body structure. Many also use much lighter building materials, reducing weight and pull. Some models even have wheel covers and no mirrors (replaced with cameras and navigation equipment), which saves an enormous amount of energy.

Hybrids don’t seem to be a fad or some social experiment. Consumers and car enthusiasts alike are enjoying what they’re seeing in market. Everyday it seems a better designed, lighter; more fuel-efficient and powerful hybrid enters. Recently released models are even beating their gas-powered counterparts. One boasts a 255 hp engine with other capabilities such as being able to shut down half cylinders (without notice) while in motion to conserve fuel and energy.

Hybrid-engineered cars cost a bit more too. Usually price difference is around 3,000 bucks. And, it may take a few years (depending on gas prices) for you to actually make savings in fuel worthwhile. However, it’s still better for environment, and that lingers (and makes it worthwhile) in some consumers’ minds.

And, if you are still one to wholeheartedly grip stick of your V-8 without budging, you might take into mind that newer hybrid models are gaining on those petal-to-the-metal peelers of yesteryear. Hybrid models are inching nearer to (and even beating!) gas powered cars in 0 to 60 mph road tests.

So, when you decide that a new car might be a viable option in near future, don’t expect to see too many hybrids in dealers’ lots. You may have to do some across-the-state driving to find a choice. Do some preliminary searching on Internet and find out what model may benefit you and your lifestyle most. Keep in mind all that we’ve mentioned and perhaps—in future—you’ll have no other choice than a hybrid, which at this time seems to be by far best choice around.

Another major reason that many are choosing synthetic route is that it contains fewer impurities; impurities that can cause your engine harm, perhaps to point of premature engine wear. With conventional oil, there’s no way to totally rid, filter or clean impurities from natural elements. That’s another reason why synthetic oils do not have to be changed as much even in extreme driving conditions.

You’ll want to be careful; however, if you do decide that you want to give synthetic oils a try. If you’ve been driving your 1983 Ford Thunderbird for years using 10W30, you may not want to switch using your conventional oil brand.

Conventional oils have solvents that stick to gaskets and seals and often cause them to swell a certain way. These gaskets and seals have been used to same oil for years and switch to any other type of oil (whether it is to a different conventional oil brand, or an upgrade to a synthetic) may be harmful. The oil you change (or upgrade to) will also have solvents and additives, different from original. So in other terms, changing of oils could result in oil leaks and/or a once small oil leak becoming bigger due to reaction seals and gaskets will have to change (not because of oil itself). If you think that this might be case for you (i.e. if you have an older car using conventional oil), it’s recommended that you not try synthetic oil until you have an engine (or new car) with relatively virgin gaskets and seals that will be able to acclimate much more easily to chemical changes of newer type of oil.

It’s easy to see that that fanfare for one or other is an argument that has really been explored. It’s best for you to decide what will fit your personal needs. If you have an older car, you may want to wait until you upgrade. However, if you have a newer car, benefits of synthetic oils are easily seen. Again, it’s solely dependent upon you and conditions where you drive. Synthetics are shown to provide their best protection above 250 degrees Fahrenheit. Most people do not drive their cars this hot. However, many do drive in cities, where driving times are considered to be more of a “stop-and-go” nature, which may be considered “extreme” in many circumstances. When time comes for you to make a decision, at least you’ll be informed of differences of each. And, until that time, no matter what, keep up that automotive pride!