We own a 21 Hybrid now approaching 18,000 miles. I would say that the city driving is as good as a regular vehicle. Highway you'll notice the acceleration may not be what you are accustomed to, but is an acceptable trade-off for the difference in fuel economy (especially at $5 a gallon!!) Real world for us is an average MPG in the 33 - 37 range depending on winter/summer, highway/city etc, basically all of the factors that affect everyone. The hybrid system works great for us.