 I have had the hybrid for over a year and so far have not had any problems and the gas mileage is better than advertised if you take advantage of the car's mechanics.  In a Long Island to NYC trip I will average 44 mpg and in highway driving at around 60-62 mph I can get 40 mpg (summer time).  Accelerating smoothly to 40 mph and then letting the electric motor coast you at 39-40 mph on electric only in afternoon traffic works really well.  Putting the cruise control on also improves mileage at highway speeds.  But if you need acceleration it is available.