Well, no one really. At least, no one quite dares to say that anymore.

There was a time, of course, when most if not all hybrid models were a little bit bland, if not downright ugly.

As we continue looking for alternative ways to get around, however, and as more and more automakers jump onto the hybrid train, we are seeing a lot of luxury.

For instance, expected this season, BMW will be releasing the ActiveHybrid 7, a luxury sedan which can see five people.

Keep your eyes out, folks — but beware, the MSRP is likely to be over a hundred grand.

It is estimated that, at some point in 2010, Mercedes Benz will be coming out with the ML450 Hybrid.

It will be a five seater SUV, but in the midsize category.

However, it has to be said that there seems to be a lot of issues with this particular vehicle. Although a hybrid, there have been problems with getting available batteries for it.

Never a good thing, you know?

Still, it is hoped that Mercedes will have the problems ironed out by the time the SUV hits full distribution. So all hope is not lost — provided you can afford something around the area of $55k.

Choosing a hybrid is something that is very, very difficult.  I mean, there are so many choices out there, it can be extremely hard to choose not just the right hybrid but the one that you absolutely want to have.  You want to make sure that the car not only fits within your lifestyle, but you also want something affordable.

That is what we are going to explore in the next couple blogs, how to find the right hybrid that not only fits with your style but also is affordable for you.  Face it, cars are expensive and if you are one of those people that are constantly trying to find an affordable car, you want to make sure that you are doing your research.

Researching the automakers as well as the cars themselves is a fantastic idea, that way you know what you might be getting yourself into.

Ah the rumors.  The rumor mill has hit me and I can tell you for sure that the brand new 2010 Mercedes-Benz S400 Hybrid and the S generation in general is going to go all hybrid … which is something that I love!  Mercedes-Benz is one of those automakers that is certainly trying to ensure that they stay with the green and that is the reason for the switch.

Personally, I think that the 2010 Mercedes-Benz S400 Hybrid is certainly a good choice for anyone that is looking for a luxury car that is not trying to cut corners but that are definitely trying to ensure that the car is helping the environment as well.

In the next blog though, we are going to explore how you can make a difference and go about changing on over to a hybrid car!

The second generation of this SUV line, it is much improved over its forebear as far as efficiency goes, thanks in part to being both lower and lighter.

In addition, the new version will, for the very first time ever, have the option of a hybrid drivetrain. In this case, the V6 TSI powerplant well known from VW will be paired with a fantastic 34kW “E-Motor,” which will result in even more fuel economy, not to mention better performance both on the road and off.

That being said, take a look at Citroen’s new concept, the DS High Rider. In addition to many other fantastic features, this concept features the kind of fuel efficiency that can only be achieved when diesel engines are paired with electric vehicles.

You see, this compact crossover does just that. Not only is it sleek, stylish, and sophisticated, but its diesel engine works in perfect conjunction with its electric motor, the latter of which can be found on the rear axle.

And when the right circumstances come to pass, each of the engines work together to provide even more power.

The ix-Metro is the fifth car in a whole series of concepts that will be put together by the Global Design Team of Namyang in Korea. It is also a platform meant to showcase the Blue Drive eco initiative Hyundai is trying to put into place. This initiative is meant to have a whole lot of ecologically and environmentally friendly technologies, not to mention similar products.

The ix-Metro is a sub B segment CUV, a hybrid electric vehicle that, Hyundai swears, gives out only 80 g/km worth of CO2 emissions.

The forty first annual motor show in Tokyo is responsible for unveiling this beauty to the world. The concept is a proposal designed to introduce a grand touring car for the future, and its aim is the integration of environmental and eco friendliness with safety and driving performance.

As you can see by the car’s exterior, wings and flight are serious inspiration. Well duh, just check out those gull wing doors! This hybrid looks ready to take flight! Talk about environmentally friendly!

The truth of the matter is that it is no more expensive to maintain a hybrid car than it is to maintain a conventional vehicle. In fact, in some instances, maintaining a hybrid car can even cost less because the engine does not undergo as much wear and tear, nor does the braking system.

In fact, conventional vehicles and hybrid cars have a lot of similarities. For instance, hybrid vehicles are specifically designed to drive in the exact same conditions as conventional vehicles — temperatures too. Extreme heat will not hurt a hybrid. Extreme cold will not damage a hybrid either. It can handle it all.

When you are looking for a hybrid car … I can tell you that the Smart ForTwo is definitely a car that I want to own.  This is a car that is not only going to look pretty chic and interesting but it is completely and totally electric.  That is one of the best things about it. Right now though — the Smart has a lot of issues that they are trying to resolve and that is what the Smart ForTwo is trying to resolve.

For example, the Smart right now can only get up to about 40 hp and it can only provide short bursts when the accelerator is pushed to the floor.  Most of the time, the horsepower is around 27 and honestly, that is not enough to really get you where you want to go.

However … if you are just running up to the store or even to work, this is certainly the car for you and it is cheap!