"New" Wheels

Due to circumstances beyond my control (like being rear-ended last week), we had to replace a car this week. This was a totally unexpected, unwanted turn of events, but we tried to make the very most of it. We had planned on driving the "old" car, a 2003 Pontiac Vibe, until it would take us no further. That moment just came a little sooner than we thought.

Luckily, we had discussed what are next car would be, even when we thought it would be at least a few more years down the line. We had decided on a Mazda 5. Which brings me to why I post about this. Many people think that the best way to drive "green" is to run out and by the newest hybrid or electrical vehicle. And I am certainly not knocking that, but there are other options for those of us without the cash or compulsion to buy new, now.

Here are some things to consider when trying get the most for your money and the planet:

1. Buy used...isn't that always the way? But seriously, not only do you lose a lot of the cars value the moment you drive new off the lot-you also create another car in the grand scheme of things.

2. Get the smallest car you can. Big cars equal big gas mileage...even a hybrid SUV often can't compare to a sensible smaller car.

3. Drive it till it bites the dust (see #1).

Everyone has to do what works best for them and their family. Just try to expand your horizons a little when you are thinking about what that may be (Green Car is a very helpful resource). For us, it was going with the smallest, used "minivan" we could find. This gave us a third row option for the boys' friends as they get older, and a little more room for traveling, but gas mileage very similar to what the Vibe had.

Whatever you are driving, or are planning on driving, happy and safe travels this week!