Originally posted by: vi_edit
For the Civic, the the hybrid was a $2500 premium, maybe even more with lots of demand. With the accord you are looking at a $4000 difference between a 4cyl & 6cyl. Then add in the premium of the hybrid tech and I wouldn't be surprised if it bumps up the price another $3,000-$4,000 on top of that.
The $4k difference between a 4cyl LX and a 6cyl LX Accord is more than just the engine. Typically with nearly every model, a jump to a V6 is about $2k more. You do get quite a bit more with the V6 LX that you don't get in the 4cyl EX. Like traction control, 16" wheels, passive security system, indash 6CD changer with steering wheel remote, power driver seat, passenger detection airbag system, etc....
Also keep in mind with the hybrid Accord V6, not only do you get the electric hybrid motor assistance, but the Variable Cylinder Management system that should improve the highway mpg by about 10-15%. Also keep in mind, that a big chunk of that price difference is tax deductible when April 15th rolls around.
Originally posted by: vi_edit
And honestly - I'm not concerned about the V6-like performance. For most people you either care about performance, or you care about price/economy. Sure, we all would like the performance of the V6 with the economy of the compact, but the reality of it is that it just isn't enough difference to most people to justify adding another $5,000-$8,000 onto the price.
For a lot of families that's 5 years worth of free fuel! It's just not worth it.
I believe there's a lot of customers who desire the performance of an Accord V6 and is willing to pay the premium for the hybrid motor to save them money at the gas pump, especially with the fluctuation of gas prices these days and the idea of gas reaching above $2.50/g in the realistic near future.
Also again, the premium for the hybrid Accord over the regular V6 Accord, a large portion of it is tax deductible.