The 2008 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid shuts off the gas engine when idling at a stoplight and offers a boost for passing.

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NEW YORK — Thought about buying a hybrid but have yet to take the plunge? Now may be the time to reconsider. With gas prices high, a hybrid could save you money.

A hybrid is any vehicle that uses both an internal combustion engine and an electric motor. Almost every manufacturer makes its own hybrid.

They can come in all different makes, from SUVs to compacts. Here are three benefits of hybrids to consider before you run out and buy your next car:

● Better mileage. It's a simple fact that hybrids get better gas mileage than gas-powered cars. Take a look at the standard four-cylinder Toyota Camry.

According to the EPA, the Camry has a combined highway/city miles per gallon rating of 25. Compare this to the Toyota Camry Hybrid's 33 mpg.

The Toyota Prius can do even better with a highway/city rating of 48/45 mpg. Whatever the make, a hybrid can always one-up its traditional counterpart on fuel efficiency.

● Auto insurance discounts. Some auto insurers have been offering discounts on insurance for hybrids.

Farmers Insurance Group offers a 10 percent discount; so does Travelers Insurance. The discount does not apply to every state. You'll want to check with the companies to find out whether the discount applies to you.

● Tax breaks and benefits. In an effort to encourage consumers to buy hybrids, many states offer tax breaks and other assorted perks. Thirty-six states offer tax breaks up to $5,000 on hybrids.

There are additional perks, as well. Certain states, including Arizona, are allowing hybrid owners to drive in high- occupancy vehicle lanes, no matter how many passengers they are carrying.

This extends to hybrids that get 50 percent better fuel efficiency in the city and at least 25 percent better efficiency on combined city-highway miles over traditional cars.

Of course there are disadvantages to buying a hybrid as well, including a higher sticker price.

Hybrids cost on average of $2,000-$3,000 more than a comparable traditional car.

You'll want to take into account your own driving habits when making a decision.

With all its benefits, you might find that a hybrid has become the car for you.