Hybrid Cars

Like many individuals and groups out there in the real world, we ask the really obvious, but sometimes also tough questions to answer that most struggle with when contemplating the addition of a Hybrid vehicle to their driveway, garage and lifestyle.
Some of the questions go to the fundamentals, like: Why hybrid vehicles? What are they? Are they any good? What do they cost? Where would they be found? Who uses them? How are they best applied?
Even more intricate and complex questions surface than at first glance and consideration:
How do you make up your mind about hybrid cars?
Is a hybrid vehicle even a viable option and alternative?
Are there certain circumstances that a hybrid would be considered better, more efficient?
What are the actual benefits of hybrid vehicles?
What criteria is there to use and pay special attention to when buying a hybrid vehicle?