So, as some may know, I decided to cop out of the pocket rocket scene, sell my Scooby, and make the transition towards a more efficient lifestyle (as you grow, your values change) by picking up a 2008 Honda Civic Hybrid.
After two and half months and about 4,000 miles driving the HCHII, I have filled up my tank about 10 times, if not less (since I have gotten a 500+ mile tank, once or twice =D), and I have had no complaints: The drive is comfortable and smooth, the car is well-made and predictably reliable, so far. And the power, though light years short of my Subaru's, is adequate and accessible (i.e. I have driven to Stinson Beach and back with a full trunk, and car load of people with no stress, and no problems).
Despite the car's quality build, I did find that the headlights cut off a little shorter than are comfortable for my eyes (and, my Dad felt the same about his Hybrid). So, I installed some amazon.com-purchased aftermarket HID kits on my (4300K), and my Dad's (5100K) HCHII's following these instructions. I have had no issues besides slightly asymmetric wall patterns (because the stock headlight housings are designed for Halogen bulbs, thus the Xenon bulbs I installed emit light that bounces off the reflectors differently).
In the end (as far as we've had them), the cars have become a relief and are a great comfort. While I am losing out on more agile handling, quicker acceleration, and a louder car audibly and visually, I consider my HCHII an upgrade from my 2004 WRX in comfort, reliability, safety, security and practicality--I will be keeping this car until it falls to pieces (and I believe it will relieve any future sports car I might have of daily driving wear and tear =D).
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