Paid off SUV vs Hybrid?

Question

I have a 97 Ford Explorer that is paid off completely but unfortunately, it only gets18 city mpg and about 22 highway mpg. I know there is a stigma to owning an SUV rather than a small car with higher mpg. The only problem is it's cheaper for me to keep my suv than making car payments on a higher efficiency vehicle. Have any of you ran into this situation and what did you do..... did you keep the paid off car, or did you get a more efficient one? For me, I spend about $120-$180 a month on gas. If I got a new car, I'd be making $300+ payments, plus gas, plus full coverage insurance rather than liable since I'll have a loan out on it. I know I could buy an older small car but I'd like a new one since I usually drive the heck out of them and I know I'll drive it till it doesn't run anymore. Another problem is that I have a bunch of animals and my husband & I are very outdoorsy and need the suv for hauling around all our stuff. I want to leave less of a carbon footprint but it's expensive.

Answer 1

You shoulnt be calling your kids animals. even if they are

Answer 2

I have the same problem,I bought a car thinking better mileage,its not that much better but now I need my van back and can't afford to buy one.I say keep the one paid for enjoy your ride and put the difference in the bank.Mine is now paid off but it still doesn't function for all my needs.I get 24 miles per gallon.I frankly can't see the car payment,ins. just to get 5 more miles per gallon.

Answer 3

my truck gets 11 mpg.  always, no matter what.  so when gas prices started their climb i bought an '88 camry for $500.00.  i put $200 tires on it and didn't worry about anything else.  it is now one year later and the car is still going down the road with 33 mpg, i forget the miles i've put on it but i know it paid for itself a long time ago.  so my point is, BUY A USED ONE! and keep the ford.