I've had several Chevy trucks over the years but am currently driving an older toyota Highlander. I'm definitely wanting a truck again and am seriously considering a 2012 Silverado Hybrid.

Driving habits:
Approx 18-20K per year.
50% city, 30% highway, and 20% country/backroad driving.
We've sold our farm and I no longer have a need to pull heavy equipment. At most a mid-size work trailer or mid-size boat (6200lb load shouldn't be an issue with me).
Occasional visits to Outer Banks so 4WD is a must.

The hybrids seem overly expensive to me and I know it would take years to make up the extra costs in gas savings, but for some reason I'm just wanting a reason to go the Hybrid route.

Anyone have any positive/negative input on why I should/shouldn't buy one?

Questions I have:
How difficult will it be to find one?
Should I really expect gas mileage in the 20/23 range?
Reliability?
It's my understanding the electric motor is used up to a certain mph (approx 30 or so). If in 4WD would gas mode kick in? If not, is electric mode powerful enough to handle pulls through sand?
Can you turn the electric mode off/on?
Does the battery take up all the space under the back seat?
Should I expect additional/higher maintenance costs?
Anyone know if insurance would be higher/lower going to Hybrid?

Sorry for all the questions, but I'm just really wanting to make an educated and informed decision before any possible purchase.

Thanks.

 

Stay away from the hybrids in the c/k series trucks they are crap.when u buy there more expensive and nobody wants rhem in on trade when u want to sell hopefuly im not to lAte responding