Everything I've read says that the hybrid cars are a luxury item - the payback time is impossible. It is not an economic choice, it is a social statement.

A very good used car is just as reliable (for a commuter car) as a new one, and far more economical as well. If it is just one or two years old, you can even get a "used car loan" (at banks such as my credit union, DCU (http://www.dcu.org) or others), and sometimes even a warrantee.

Of course, I am not talking about what you want here, or the fun and satisfaction of owning a car, or any real intangibles. Just being cheap.